We will not be able to enjoy the beach or the beach bars, but autumn delights us with a large number of forests beautiful that are worth visiting during this time of year. A few weeks ago we wanted to tell you about one of the most beautiful in Spain, La Fageda d'en Jordà, a wonderful destination that everyone should visit in the fall. Well, today we are moving to Madrid to present you another wonder of nature that will dazzle you at this time of year.
We are referring to Montejo beech forest, a spectacular 250-hectare beech forest located in the Sierra del Rincón, next to the Jarama river. Do you want to know more details of this beautiful place? Well, pay attention to what we show you below!
A relict forest
Declared a Site of National Interest in 1974, Montejo is one of the southernmost beech forests in Europe. And although in the Iberian Peninsula it is possible to find beech trees of the species Fagus sylvatica In other corners, this place amazes for its dimensions and its history. In addition, it must be taken into account that although this species is common in Europe, in Spain it is not very common, since it requires a certain humidity to grow. Apparently, it is a relict forest, which means that it arose thanks to the remains of the forest masses that in other climatic times covered the slopes of these Madrid mountains.
Different tree species
In addition to finding have more than 20 meters high, in this place in the Sierra del Rincón you can also find many other species of trees such as oak, hazel, birch, wild cherry, holly, heather, rebollo or rowan. Of course, what stands out the most are its huge beech trees. Some even have their own names: the First, the Anchor, the Throne, the Rock ...
Wildlife
Curiously, the fauna that can be found in this place is not the most characteristic of this type of forest. Thus, you will be able to find wild boars, badgers, otters, wild cats, partridges, goshawks, booted eagles, common carabus, great spotted woodpeckers, lesser beaks, water blackbirds, passerines, roe deer and marten, among many other animals.
More beautiful if possible in autumn
Although you will love this place at any time of the year, the truth is that in autumn it acquires a atmosphere Special thanks to the trees that look brown and those that shine with the typical colors of the season: reddish, ocher, yellow, gold ... These are some hues that make this forest a magical place.
Limited visits
In order to take care of this ecosystem, visits to the Hayedo de Montejo are limited. Thus, to be able to contemplate the beauty of this place you must request a authorization via Internet, by phone or in person, although if you opt for the latter option, you may not be able to visit the place because the places are sold out. On the other hand, it is important to keep in mind that you can visit the forest every day of the year except for December 24, 25 and 31, and January 1 and 6. In addition, you should know that the beech forest also remains closed on Mondays. In the Resources and Information center of the Sierra del Rincón Biosphere Reserve you can find information about the different guided and self-guided trails.
Wanting to visit this beech forest? We leave you with our Gallery, where you can find some beautiful photos of this wonder of nature located in Madrid. Do not miss it!
Hayedo Otzarreta (May 2024)
- forests, Madrid
- 1,230
