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Stage of the Camino

Merida to Alcuéscar

From Mérida To Alcuescar

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Origin

Mérida

Destination

Alcuescar

Distance

35.90 km

Duration

8.98 h

Difficulty

Alta

Ascent

265 m

Stage of the Camino

Stage Description

This is one of the longest and most demanding stages of the Via de la Plata, a journey that crosses a solitary and beautiful landscape. The route leaves Mérida by passing alongside the Aqueduct of the Miracles and enters the Extremaduran heathland. The path runs through the Cornalvo Natural Park, a protected area of great ecological value. The stage is very long and has few intermediate services, which requires self-sufficiency and good planning. The profile is undulating. The destination is Alcuéscar, a village that offers well-deserved rest and the opportunity to visit the Visigothic basilica of Santa Lucía del Trampal, an architectural jewel unique.
The stage connecting Mérida to Alcuéscar is one of the most challenging parts of the Saint Abdon and Sennen Way due to its great length. The journey immerses the pilgrim in the essence of Extremaduran heathland, a landscape of oak and holm trees of great beauty and solitude.

The departure from monumental Mérida is spectacular, passing alongside the Aqueduct of the Miracles. Shortly after, the path enters the Cornalvo Natural Park, an ideal protected space for birdwatching and enjoying nature. The route passes alongside Proserpina Reservoir, of Roman origin.

The main challenge of this stage is distance and lack of services. For many kilometers, the pilgrim walks through a deserted territory, requiring sufficient water and food. The profile is a continuous rise and fall, with no major peaks but a considerable accumulated slope.

After a long effort, one arrives at Alcuéscar. This town is known for housing one of the most important and unknown architectural jewels in the peninsula: the Basilica of Saint Lucy del Trampal. It's one of the few Visigothic temples preserved in southern Europe. A visit to this temple, just a few kilometers from the town, is highly recommended. Alcuéscar offers good services and the necessary hospitality to recover from such an demanding stage.

Last updated: 12/08/2025

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