Ventisquer de Rebalsadors
At 785 metres above sea level, at the head of the Barranc de la Nevera, stands this circular snow well built in 1706 with a capacity of around 1,100 m³. Winter snow was packed and stored here to supply ice to the Porta Coeli charterhouse, to nearby villages and to the city of València; it worked until the early 19th century. It is reached on a hiking route from Serra, usually combined with the Rebalsadors viewpoint.
The Ventisquer de Rebalsadors is a circular snow well from 1706, built at 785 metres up at the head of the Barranc de la Nevera, deep in the Sierra Calderona within the municipality of Serra. It held around 1,100 m³ and belonged to the old cold trade that predated the household fridge.
What it was for
Through the winter, fallen snow was packed down here until it compacted into ice. When the heat came it was cut into blocks and carried down by pack animals to supply the Porta Coeli charterhouse, the neighbouring villages and the city of València itself. The well stayed in use until the early 19th century.
Getting there
You reach it on foot, on a mountain route from Serra that is usually linked with the Mirador dels Rebalsadors. Bring hiking shoes and water: this is sierra country with no facilities. If this is your kind of plan, browse more routes in the area.
Frequently asked questions
What was the Ventisquer de Rebalsadors used for?
It was a snow well where winter snow was pressed and stored to supply ice to the Porta Coeli Charterhouse, the nearby villages and the city of Valencia.
When was the Ventisquer de Rebalsadors built?
It was built in 1706 at 785 metres altitude, with a capacity of around 1,100 m³, and remained in use until the early 19th century.
How do you get to the Ventisquer de Rebalsadors?
It is reached on foot, on a hiking route from Serra that is usually combined with the Mirador dels Rebalsadors; access is free.
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