Route description
Distance: 1.3 km (round trip)
The climb to the hermitage of San Rafael, in Ráfales, starts from the upper part of the town. You need to take the street that leads to the cemetery.
The climb is steady and steep, although the short distance means the route involves little difficulty. On the first stretch there are abundant old farming plots, with terraces or banks where remains of olive and almond trees are still visible. We soon enter areas of pine forest, holm oak and shrubby vegetation.
On the final stretch, the first cypress trees announce the hermitage is near. At this point, about 100 m to the right, we can see a stone pool, carved into the rock itself, which once served to supply water to the hermit. The hermitage, dedicated to San Rafael, stands out for characteristic features such as a curious porched area and columns of old, sturdy workmanship. There is a very fine view from the hermitage.
