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Alcantara Livestock Trail

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Alcantara Livestock Trail

Moderate

Alcantara Livestock Trail

Q: How long does the Dolmen Pata de Buey round trip hike take?

The hike is approximately 8.14 kilometers long and typically takes around 2 hours and 7 minutes to complete. This duration is an estimate and can vary based on your pace and stops.

Q: What is the difficulty level of this trail?

This trail is rated as moderate, meaning it requires a good level of physical fitness. However, the paths are generally easily accessible, so while some effort is needed, the technical difficulty is not high.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

You will hike on easily accessible paths, meandering through quiet lanes and footpaths. The landscape features pastures, woodlands, neat drystone walls, and a profusion of cistus bushes. You'll also pass by holm oaks and olive groves.

Q: What are the main points of interest along the way?

The primary highlight is the ancient Dolmen Pata de Buey , a prehistoric megalithic structure. You'll also pass through Zarza la Mayor , where you can see the Plaza Mayor and the Church of San Andrés Apóstol. The route also offers views of distant sierras and good opportunities for bird spotting.

Q: Is the trail suitable for families or beginners?

While rated moderate, the paths are easily accessible. Families with active children or beginners with a reasonable level of fitness should find it manageable. It's a good introduction to hiking in the region without being overly technical.

Q: Is this trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially when passing through pastures or near livestock, and always clean up after your pet.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The best times to visit are typically spring and autumn when the weather is milder. Summers can be very hot in Extremadura, and winters can be cooler and wetter, though often still pleasant for hiking.

Q: Where can I park and access the trailhead?

The trail starts and ends in Zarza la Mayor. You can typically find parking within the town, especially near the Plaza Mayor, which is a good starting point for the round trip.

Q: Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this hike?

No, you do not need any special permits or have to pay entrance fees to hike this trail or visit the Dolmen Pata de Buey. It is freely accessible to the public.

Q: Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, sections of this route follow parts of the official Spanish livestock trails. Approximately 6% of the trail overlaps with the Cañada Real de Gata, and about 52% follows the Cordel de Ganados de Alcantara.

02:07

8.14km

50m

Hiking

Hike the 5.1-mile Dolmen Pata de Buey round trip from Zarza la Mayor, a moderate route exploring ancient history and Extremadura's diverse l

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

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824 m

Plaza Mayor and Church of San Andrés Apóstol, Zarza la Mayor

Highlight • Religious Site

Zarza la Mayor is a Spanish town and municipality, located in the province of Cáceres, in the autonomous community of Extremadura. It belongs to the judicial district of Cáceres and is the westernmost town in the community of Rivera de Fresnedosa. Furthermore, it is the only municipality in said community that has a border with Portugal, located four kilometers in a straight line from Salvaterra do Extremo.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4.86 km

Dolmen Pata de Buey

Highlight • Historical Site

The Pata de Buey Dolmen is a funerary structure that consists of a large chamber with an approximate diameter of 3 meters. The slate slabs that formed the chamber have remained mostly on the same side, especially in the areas adjacent to the corridor. In the northeast sector, there are also three small slabs.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

8.14 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.80 km

2.10 km

240 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

2.35 km

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Sunday 12 July

31°C

16°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Dolmen Pata de Buey round trip hike take?

The hike is approximately 8.14 kilometers long and typically takes around 2 hours and 7 minutes to complete. This duration is an estimate and can vary based on your pace and stops.

What is the difficulty level of this trail?

This trail is rated as moderate, meaning it requires a good level of physical fitness. However, the paths are generally easily accessible, so while some effort is needed, the technical difficulty is not high.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

You will hike on easily accessible paths, meandering through quiet lanes and footpaths. The landscape features pastures, woodlands, neat drystone walls, and a profusion of cistus bushes. You'll also pass by holm oaks and olive groves.

What are the main points of interest along the way?

The primary highlight is the ancient Dolmen Pata de Buey, a prehistoric megalithic structure. You'll also pass through Zarza la Mayor, where you can see the Plaza Mayor and the Church of San Andrés Apóstol. The route also offers views of distant sierras and good opportunities for bird spotting.

Is the trail suitable for families or beginners?

While rated moderate, the paths are easily accessible. Families with active children or beginners with a reasonable level of fitness should find it manageable. It's a good introduction to hiking in the region without being overly technical.

Is this trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially when passing through pastures or near livestock, and always clean up after your pet.

What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The best times to visit are typically spring and autumn when the weather is milder. Summers can be very hot in Extremadura, and winters can be cooler and wetter, though often still pleasant for hiking.

Where can I park and access the trailhead?

The trail starts and ends in Zarza la Mayor. You can typically find parking within the town, especially near the Plaza Mayor, which is a good starting point for the round trip.

Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this hike?

No, you do not need any special permits or have to pay entrance fees to hike this trail or visit the Dolmen Pata de Buey. It is freely accessible to the public.

Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, sections of this route follow parts of the official Spanish livestock trails. Approximately 6% of the trail overlaps with the Cañada Real de Gata, and about 52% follows the Cordel de Ganados de Alcantara.

Are there any facilities like cafes or restaurants in Zarza la Mayor?

Yes, Zarza la Mayor is a town where you can find local cafes and restaurants to refuel before or after your hike. It's a good idea to check their opening hours, especially outside of peak tourist season.