Santa Engracia River

The Santa Engracia River originates in the mountains of Álava and flows through protected natural areas. Its path winds through the landscape for several kilometers before joining larger water systems in the region.

The river formed over thousands of years through erosion of the mountain landscape and was documented in historical records starting in the 19th century. Its role as a boundary between provinces shaped regional geography for a long time.

The Santa Engracia hermitage sits above the waters and shapes how locals view this landscape. People have long connected this place to the small chapel that has stood watch over the river for generations.

The river is best explored when water levels are low, as this reveals more of the banks and accessible areas. Access is mainly through hiking trails and roads that pass through the protected landscape.

The waters host trout and river barbel that thrive in the clear mountain stream environment. These fish populations draw attention from local anglers who understand the river's ecological value.