The cycle tour continues over the iron bridge over the Ambroz River and traces a sweeping curve through the Balozano meadows. The vast plain of the Ambroz Valley disappears into endless horizons toward Extremadura, an essential symbol of the Vía de la Plata. The route of the old railway crosses the Cordel del Berrocal and resumes its northward course in search of the pastures of Salamanca via the Puerto de Béjar, an ancient gateway for communication, trade, armies, cultures, herds, pilgrims, trains, and travelers of all times. At the Baños de Montemayor station, there is also a rest area and a wonderful fountain, seemingly springing from the depths of the mountains. The route crosses the La Garganta road and passes through an artificially lit tunnel shortly before the Puerto de Béjar station, which also has a bar, terrace, and a railway atmosphere. The climb is over; to Béjar, it's a pleasant walk through the Cantagallo oak groves. The railway had 47 main stations, in addition to secondary stops and sidings. The Puerto de Béjar and Béjar stations were important stops. The train was essential for the textile industry, barrels, chestnuts, and pork products, which were the main resources of the local economy. In Béjar, the train was a fundamental engine for the city's progress. The two most profitable textile factories in the town alone washed eleven tons of wool daily, consuming about five tons of coal, and everything was transported by rail, along with passengers and other goods.
The Béjar station is special; it preserves many railway elements that keep alive the memory of another era. Part of the railway workers' houses have been renovated for cultural activities, and there are remains of the platforms, loading docks, systems for pumping water to the locomotives, the switch levers, and a section of the old rails. Just ahead are the remains of the medieval walls, and in the background are the buildings of Béjar. The station is at the entrance, and you need to take a detour to explore the town. In Béjar, you can spend the night; it has all the services available. Depending on your schedule and pace, you can continue on to the next section, Navalmoral de Béjar and Calzada de Béjar. At the beginning of the return route, the towns of Baños de Montemayor and Hervás are also good places to finish the stage.
Translated by Google •
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