Pools, rivers and swimming spots in Matarrana to cool off in summer
Water takes centre stage in Matarrana: crystal-clear rivers, natural pools and waterfalls invite you to swim amid mountain landscapes. From El Salt del Tastavins to the Pesquera in Beceite, a guide to the best spots to cool off.
The Matarrana river gives its name to a territory where water flows freely through rivers, ravines, irrigation channels, waterfalls, springs and natural pools. A region of nearly 100,000 hectares crossed by the Matarrana and its tributaries: the Algars, Ulldemo, Pena and Tastavins. The area offers visitors a rich landscape of mountains, valleys, olive groves, vineyards and almond trees, all threaded through with clean, crystal-clear rivers where you can enjoy long swims and riverside walks. Here are several suggestions for enjoying the water and scenery during the summer:
El Salt. To reach El Salt, take the path from the TE-V 3004 road (Valderrobres-La Portellada). The car park is 0.5 km from the junction. From there it is 1.5 km to El Salt. The waterfall on the river Tastavins, a tributary of the Matarrana, is a beautiful spot where the river plunges some twenty metres. The flow depends on rainfall, being fuller in spring and autumn than in summer. At the top of the falls you can see spectacular shapes carved by erosion. More information about El Salt.
La Pesquera. La Pesquera is the name given to the pools or 'tolls' of the river Ulldemo: a strikingly beautiful area where you can swim in the many pools formed by the river's erosion of the rock. The water temperature is similar to the Mediterranean Sea, making bathing a very pleasant experience. To reach La Pesquera, follow the signposted path from the village of Beceite. The road is paved for three kilometres, where you will find the first pool. Access is regulated and there are parking areas. More information about parking at La Pesquera.
Pena reservoir and Pena river. The Pena reservoir, on the Pena river, is now an inseparable part of the Matarrana landscape. It lies at the foot of the Puertos de Beceite mountains. The best access routes are the paved track from Beceite or the track from the A-1414 road between Fuentespalda and Valderrobres. You can also walk in via the GR-8 long-distance path between Fuentespalda and Beceite. Activities include swimming, canoeing, cycling, horse riding and regulated fishing. There are picnic areas with benches and tables.
Algars riverside. The river Algars is the natural border between Catalonia and Aragon, and along its banks are several pools from its source to its mouth near Nonaspe (Zaragoza). One of them is Toll de la Verdura, a spot where crystal-clear waters and lush forests offer absolute tranquillity. To get there, take the A-231 road from Valderrobres to Arnes, then follow a signposted unpaved track.
Another pool is Toll del Vidre, shared with the Catalan region of La Terra Alta. You can reach it from Arnes or via an unpaved track from Beceite, on the left of the road past the tunnel. It has a waterfall and several drops that children love. In Arens de Lledo you will find Toll del Galero, a swimming spot flanked by rocks and surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation with riverside wildlife. Finally, Poza de Lledo offers unique views of the Matarrana aqueduct and is located at the turn-off on the A-231 between Lledo and Arnes. From here you can also enjoy walks along the Via Verde greenway.
L'Assut Natural Pool. A large natural pool on the Matarrana river, located 500 metres from Beceite in the direction of the Parrizal. Very easy to access, with parking just 100 metres away.
Municipal swimming pools in the region. For the full list you can download the municipal pools document.