Arquillo de San Blas reservoir

Arquillo de San Blas is a reservoir on the Guadalaviar River, a few kilometers from Teruel, sitting where the river cuts through a rocky, canyon-like stretch of land. The dam was built in 1962 as a gravity structure 54 meters high with a 173.2-meter crown length. The reservoir it created covers 83 hectares and holds up to 22 hm³ of water, supplying drinking water to Teruel, powering the nearby Carburos hydroelectric plant, and irrigating surrounding farmland. For visitors, it's above all a peaceful spot for a hike, a picnic, and time spent along the Guadalaviar valley.

How do you get there?

The starting point is San Blas, a small district or village a few kilometers from central Teruel. From there, a marked walking trail follows the riverbed all the way to the dam and reservoir. Driving from Teruel takes roughly fifteen minutes, and there's parking near the reservoir for those who prefer to head straight to the water.

What will you see?

The main draw is the dam itself — a massive concrete structure spanning the Guadalaviar gorge — and the reservoir behind it, which glows a striking blue against the pale, rocky slopes when the weather is good. The trail from San Blas crosses footbridges over the riverbed, passing natural pools carved into the rock and small cascades along the way. The landscape is typical of the Teruel highlands: dry, stony Mediterranean scrub contrasting with a lush green strip that follows the river. At the reservoir itself, you'll find open water framed by hills, and on a good day, kayakers or pedal boats out on the surface.

What hiking route leads to the reservoir?

The best-known route runs from San Blas to Arquillo, covering about 8.2 kilometers (one way or as a loop, depending on the variant chosen) with only 174 meters of total elevation gain. It's an easy trail suited to families and casual walkers — no special fitness or preparation required — and its biggest appeal is how close it stays to the river, with footbridges, stone pools, and shade from trees lining the banks.

What can you do at the reservoir?

A picnic area with rest spots sits by the water, along with a small food stand for something to eat or drink after the walk. For those wanting to get on the water, kayak and pedal boat rentals are available on site, making it a popular way to spend a summer day away from the heat of the city. The area is also good for landscape photography, birdwatching along the shoreline, and simply relaxing in the shade at the water's edge.

When should you visit?

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, when water levels are high, vegetation is green, and temperatures suit both hiking and water activities. In summer, midday heat typical of the Teruel highlands can be intense, so it's worth timing the trail for morning or late afternoon. Autumn brings a quieter atmosphere with fewer visitors, while in winter the reservoir is often nearly empty of people — appealing if you're after solitude, though some services like boat rentals may be closed for the season.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Arquillo de San Blas from central Teruel? The reservoir is a few kilometers from the city, about a fifteen-minute drive. You can also reach it on foot via the trail starting in the San Blas district.

Is the hiking trail suitable for children? Yes, the roughly 8.2-kilometer route with just 174 meters of elevation gain is classified as easy and works well for families, though the distance may be a stretch for very young children.

Can you swim or kayak on the reservoir? Yes, kayak and pedal boat rentals operate on site, making Arquillo a popular spot for summer water activities.

What is the dam used for? Built in 1962, the dam supplies drinking water to Teruel, powers the Carburos hydroelectric plant, and feeds irrigation systems in the surrounding area.