Nº 010

Cascada del Palancia with tragic legend

Salto de la Novia.

60-metre fall named after a drowned bride

NatureYear-roundPaid
Coordinates
39.8743, -0.5002
Address
C. Bajada de las Fuentes, S/N, 12470 Navajas, Province of Castellón
Municipality
Navaixes

Salto de la Novia is a waterfall also known as Cascada del Brazal, located almost one kilometre south-east of the town of Navajas, in the Alto Palancia region. The waterfall drops in a single vertical section, suspended over the rock, on the banks of the Palancia river. Sources disagree on its exact height: some put it at 30 metres and others at 60 metres, although the geological formation surrounding it—limestone walls shaped by erosion over millions of years—is in any case its most distinctive feature.

The popular name of the site comes from a local legend according to which, shortly before a wedding celebration, the bride was required to jump across the river at the point where it narrows beneath the waterfall, in the presence of family and friends. If she crossed to the opposite bank without incident, it was a sign of a happy marriage and was considered proof of the young woman's love for her future husband; if she failed in the attempt, the couple would break off their engagement.

Access to the place begins at the Plaza del Olmo de Navajas, on Calle Escultor Manolo Rodríguez, where there is an interpretation and information centre. The path leading to the waterfall presents no technical difficulty and is accessible for people with reduced mobility. During summer and weekends in the rest of the year, access costs 2 euros for those over 10 years old; entry is free for those under that age and for residents of the municipality.