Sotos De Sepúlveda – Landscape, History and Cycling Route

Sotos de Sepúlveda lies on the banks of the Río Serrano. On the right-hand slope between Sotos de Sepúlveda and Castillejo de Mesleón, particularly interesting geological erosion gullies can be seen. They were formed by the erosion caused by the river in the sandy-clayey deposits at the foot of the Somosierra.

Landscape

The landscape around Sotos de Sepúlveda includes hills covered with oaks and holm oaks.

Viewed from a landscape perspective, Sotos de Sepúlveda is defined by three differently named reference points: the Río Serrano, the slopes at the foot of the Somosierra and the hills covered with oaks and holm oaks. The geological formations and the wooded heights stand alongside one another as distinct landscape elements.

The landscape elements also differ in their geological and botanical characteristics. The forms created by river erosion contrast with the wooded hills, while the Río Serrano provides the named connection to the water. The river, deposits, slopes and vegetation therefore remain recognisable as distinct components of the surrounding area.

Culture and History

The parish church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario in Sotos de Sepúlveda has Romanesque origins. It retains its original layout, with a nave, presbytery and semicircular apse. These structural elements are made of rubble masonry; at the corners, they are finished with ashlar masonry.

The Palacio de Esquileo is a historical testament to the intensive livestock farming associated with the Mesta, particularly the washing, sale and transport of wool. The palace has been restored and is now operated as a hotel.

The former settlements of Santa Inés and Aldehuela lie within the area of Sotos de Sepúlveda and bear witness to earlier rural settlements.

The church, the palace and the former settlements represent different historical points of reference. In the case of the church, its layout, masonry and Romanesque origins have been preserved. The palace refers to the wool industry and is also used today as a hotel. Santa Inés and Aldehuela complement these remains with evidence of the former rural settlement area.

Cycling Route and Festivals

The Ruta Geológica - Cicloturismo is a 54.5 km geological BBT mountain bike route starting from Riaza. It passes through the valley of Sotos de Sepúlveda, where red-coloured erosion gullies and clay ravines can be seen.

The Virgen del Rosario festival takes place on the first Sunday in August in honour of the town’s patron saint. The Virgen de San Inés festival is celebrated on the first Sunday in June and commemorates the vanished chapel of Santa Inés, which stood in the surrounding area.

The cycling route and the two festivals have different chronological and thematic focuses. While the route connects Sotos de Sepúlveda with Riaza and the valley of the town, the festivals relate to the first Sunday in June and August, respectively. The Virgen de San Inés festival also preserves the vanished chapel of Santa Inés as a historical point of reference.

For accommodation in Sotos de Sepúlveda, a hotel’s travel dates, room category and cancellation conditions can be considered as separate details.

Getting There

Sotos de Sepúlveda can be reached via the Autovía del Norte (A-1), taking the exit at kilometre 107.

For the higher-level travel overview: Castillejo De Mesleón.