The road we chose from Soria to Calahorra was (mainly) the SO-615 over the mountains. It was fabulous – a World Biosphere Reserve no less!1 Definitely to be recommended in preference to the motorway, if you are not in a hurry.
Soria to Yanguas
We started on the plains on an overcast day but we were soon in the foothills of the mountains, and shortly after that we were in the mist, climbing to c.1,500 metres, or nearly 5,000 feet. And somewhere up here the Cidacos River rises.
The day warmed up, we dipped under the mist and sweeping views opened around us. Snow poles along the sides of the roads tell you about the area in winter!
It was a tricky drive at times and we were looking forward to coffee and stretching our legs so stopped in Yanguas.
Yanguas on the road from Soria to Calahorra
Yanguas is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain, but not only were there no open bars, shops or hotels, we only saw one or two souls and a cat!
Although it is hard to believe, the town apparently has its origins in pre-Roman times. It was used by the Romans, and it was later on a transhumance and trade route. Today the remains of the castle still guard the town and the palaces and mansions along the narrow streets speak of prosperity in the past.
We enjoyed wandering through the town, even though it was somewhat grey and chilly, but we needed a cup of coffee!
Yanguas to Arnedillo
The next part of the road, from Yanguas to Encina where we also had hopes of a drink, was narrow but stunning. The road runs in a gorge created by the River Cidacos with high, rocky cliffs on either side. The rocks are piled up in layers and we drove slowly, in awe at what we were seeing.
Enciso, the home of dinosaurs, was equally disappointing with regard to coffee…. Onwards! Success was finally achieved in Arnedillo! We didn’t stop to explore but apparently there are hot springs in the town and the spa facilities create tourist income for the town. There are interesting chapels, dinosaur footprints, and points where you can see vultures.
Suitably fortified we drove on, through more stunning views.
There were lots of holes in the huge red sandstone cliffs next to the road, and I think these were Medieaval tombs. But there were also cave houses. Apparently people were still living in cave houses in this region well into the 20th century.
Finally Calahorra came into view!
The SO 615 road from Soria to Calahorra, via Yanguas, Enciso, and Arnedo is stunning. Do take it if you are travelling in this area and have time to explore. But then isn’t that what travelling is about? Exploring?
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