In the Zaragoza region of Calatayud There is one of the most refreshing interior destinations to escape the heat and frantic rhythm of the city: the Stone monastery. In addition to its emblematic “horse tail”, which has a water drop of more than 50 meters, this natural park hides a natural jewel, which surprises those who visit it: the Iris cave, a hidden cave from which a unique rainbow can be contemplated.
Iris Grotto of the Stone Monastery
Other routes
Accommodation, parking and tips for visiting the stone monastery
Iris Grotto of the Stone Monastery
The Iris cave is a cave sculpted by the leaks of the stone river that stands out for its unique geological and botanical environment, but also that acts as a natural refuge against heat: inside, temperatures rarely exceed fifteen degrees, which makes it an exceptional place to flee the most intense heat waves.
But without a doubt, one of his greatest attractions is the rainbow that appears at sunset during the summer months. When the sun’s rays are filtered between the leaves and cross the fine drops of water pulverized by the waterfall, there is a difficult visual phenomenon to forget, which makes each visit a magical experience.
Grotto Iris Stone Monastery. Photo: Stone Monastery
Its historical park-garden offers an extraordinary microclimate, having temperatures that are maintained between five and ten degrees even in the middle of summer. In the shadow of centenary trees and surrounded by geological wealth, the iris cave is presented as a unique natural oasis for those who seek to disconnect and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Discovered in 1860 by Juan Federico Muntadas Jornet, ideologue and promoter of the historical Park-Jardin, this cave has established itself as one of the main attractions of the park by offering a natural environment where apart from being in love with the unique vegetation it offers, it presents a phenomenon as surprising as the rainbow is.
Other routes
In addition to this singular route, the stone monastery has other emblematic enclaves that complete the experience. Places such as the Mirror Lake, the Paseo de la Olmeda or the Trinidad waterfall, are part of a circular route of five kilometers, perfect to combat heat and get carried away by the constant murmur of the water.
Stone monastery waterfall. Photo: Aragon Tourism
Another of its attractions is the famous horse tail, a waterfall of more than 50 meters high that creates an ideal magical atmosphere to photograph.
Accommodation, parking and tips for visiting the stone monastery
Regarding the accessibility of the place, the stone monastery complex has two free parking areas, near the main entrance. These parking lots are adapted to receive both private vehicles, such as buses or motorhome.
From the stone monastery indicate that animals are allowed in the park, but their access to the hotel, restaurants or exhibitions is not allowed. For optimal experience, it is recommended that visitors watch comfortable clothes and footwear, as well as verify opening schedules and reserve organized tours.
As for accommodation, within the complex is an ideal hotel and spa for those who wish to explore and relax in this historical place. Located in the new cloister, the hotel has capacity for 140 guests and has 62 rooms that occupy the old monks cells. In addition, to complement the stay, the Reyes de Aragón and Piedra Vieja restaurants are ideal for discovering local cuisine, with proposals that combine tradition and proximity products.
