Ecotourism by Bookletia

E COTOURISM G UIDE

E XTREMADURA

JUNTA DE EXTREMADURA Consejer铆a de Cultura y Turismo Direcci贸n General de Turismo

2008

PREFACE

There are those who search for singularity and exceptionality of nature isolated from human activity. There are those who search for human or cultural references without bearing the natural environment in mind. There are however, those who propose that human activity has to be always understood in the context of knowledge, respect and sustainable use of natural resources. Those who think that tourism has to be practised on a human and sustainable scale, those who understand and who want to understand the rhythms of nature, the traces of culture and the palpitation of a changing society in harmony will always find Extremadura. The natural sequences and rhythms and our geographical position have made Extremadura an exceptional place in which to find birds from Northern and Southern Europe in uncommon quantities and diversity. A space in which to find really singular vegetal formations in an area inhabited over the course of history by different peoples and cultures. These natural conditions would not have been sufficient had we not capable of passing in the last few decades from conservation and preservation of these natural resources through forgetting and depopulation to active protection and by the own will of an Extremaduran society that has decided to preserve these resources, share them and use them in a sustainable manner. Because our responsibility is to receive these absolutely exceptional and exceptionally well conserved resources, resources that with a natural heritage of humanity, having to use them as an instrument of transformation and social cohesion, but also exercising authentic intergenerational solidarity. Anyone who goes into these pages will understand that this guide is a magnificent invitation to get to know an area and society that we are sure exceeds the expectations that this work can generate and arouse in which a synthesis of these natural protected resources that we will be able to appreciate and enjoy over the year is covered. A guide with which we would like to contribute to circulate, but also commit to and to continue practising, in this international year of ecotourism, a tourism on a human scale, far from the massive processes, defined by environmental degradation and acculturation. A sustainable practice of tourism that facilitates being able to continue recognising what is different as an exercise of tolerance and commitment with those who live here and visit us but also with those who will do so in the future. Our commitment to this type of revolutionary transformatory tourist or ecotouristic activity, is the same as that of those who use this guide and that to Extremaduran society which made it possible: the will to rationally share and use a natural heritage for tourism that we have the responsibility to preserve and the commitment to protect and get to know.

TYPES OF NATURAL PROTECTED SPACES National Parks Natural Parks Natural Reserves Natural sites of interest Special Conservation Areas (SCA) Special Protection Areas for Birds (SPAB) Other Protected Natural Areas Singular trees

26 25

27 3

29 17

23 15

10 6 4

22 9

18 12

8 21

5 7

INDEX

NATURAL AREA

Nº

PÁG

Monfragüe

Cornalvo

Garganta de los Infiernos

Los Barruecos

Mina La Jayona

Cueva de Castañar de Ibor

Cuevas de Fuente de León

Sierra Grande de Hornachos

Sierra de San Pedro

Llanos de Cáceres y Sierra de Fuentes

Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela

La Serena

Dehesas de Jerez

106

Puerto Peña y Sierra de Los Golondrinos

112

Las Villuercas y Los Ibores

122

Cedillo y Tajo Internacional

134

Canchos de Ramiro

140

Sierra de Siruela

146

Sierra de La Moraleja

152

Moheda Alta

156

Río Alcarrache

160

Encina La Terrona

166

Encina La Marquesa

168

Roble del Acarreadero

170

Tejos del Cerezal

172

Enebro de Las Mestas

174

Castaño del Temblar

176

Alcornoque de La Fresneda

178

Castaño de Corbiche

180

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E TO E X T R E M A D U R A A N E COTOURISM G U I D E TO E X T R E M A D U R A

MONFRAGÜE N AT I O N A L PA R K

Monfrag端e National Park

TORIL

LEGAL PROTECTION

In 1999, in accordance with the Habitats Directive (43/92/EEC) Monfrague was included in the Community Interest proposal (CI) to be incorporated in the future Nature Network 2000.

It was the first protected area in Extremadura and declared a Natural Park in 1979. Its rapid declaration was motivated by the many threats which in those days endangered what was already considered to be one of the most valuable enclaves on the Iberian peninsula. The construction of the large dams in the River Tajo and River Tjetar, with the consequent destruction of vegetation of their river thickets and banks, as well as the massive repopulation with eucalyptus in the 1970s threatened the conservation of the main reduction in endangered species and one of the best conserved areas of Mediterranean conservation. In 1991, with the application of the Birds Directive (79/109/EEC), it was also classified as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPAB) due to the importance of its bird populations, especially birds of prey.

Entrance to the Park

Monfragüe National Park

River Tajo

SITUATION

Miravete, Jaralcejo, Malpartida de Plasencia, Serradilla, Serrejón, Toril and Torrejón el Rubio.

Monfrague Natural Park has an area of 17,852 ha. Its limits coincide with those of the SPAB of the same name. This protected area extends to both sides of the River Tajo, including an estuary and a valuable branch of the River Tjetar. With a privileged location, it constitutes the Southern closure of the natural region of Campo Arañuelo, forming its mountains in an arc that unites Las Villuercas and the mountains that surround la Vega del Alagón, acting as a real ecological corridor. The municipal terms included within its limits are Casas de

ACCESS Easy access through Cáceres, Trujillo, Plasencia and Navalmoral de la Mata. Leaving from Cáceres, you reach Torréjon el Rubio, via the EX-354 crossing extensive areas of pastures. From Trujillo take the EX-208 in the direction of Plasencia, a road that introduces us progressively to the park, crossing beautiful countryside throughout the journey. From Plasencia you can arrive passing beforehand through Malpartida de Plasencia or by directly

Villareal de San Carlos

Strawberry Trees

Monfrag眉e National Park

Cantueso, broom and rockrose

Any visit to Monfrague must be started at the visitors centre of Villareal de San Carlos, where

qualified personnel provide information on the park, recommended routes and other possible activities. There is a projection room with videos which allow the visitor to get to know the importance of the protected area. Monfrague Natural Park has a spectacular exhibition centre that must be visited. On the lower floor there is an exhibition on the main natural values, special attention being dedicated to its high biodiversity and aspects related to its history, geology, etc. A maze which is entered in the dark permits experiencing emotions at the same time as learning in a fun

Exhibition Centre

Villareal huts

taking the road to Trujillo following the EX-208. From Navalmoral de la Mata there are two possibilities if we travel by the EX-106. You can have access from Castejada to Serrej贸n, reaching the most oriental limit of the park or taking the existing road before the bridge on the River Tietar in the direction of La Bazagona, which brings us into the heart of Monfrague. Entering Almaraz from the A-90, is a rapid alternative access to Casatejada.

EQUIPMENT

Monfrag端e National Park

Schematic paintings

HISTORY

way. From the lower floor there arises an ilex whose crown takes up a large part of the upper room, dedicated to the interpretation of the main Monfrague ecosystems by means of very realistic models, that combine natural elements to scale, including a pleasant environment of nature sounds and smells. The Water Exhibition Centre can also be visited, which has models and projections on the water cycle and diversity of aquatic habitats. Environmental equipment is complemented with a documentation centre and an exhibition on flora and fauna with naturalised examples, both in Villareal de San Carlos.

The importance of rivers as communication and exchange tracks over history justifies the successive presence of numerous cultures around Monfrague. The confluence of two large rivers marked by rough mountains and extensive tree areas where resources were abundant, favoured the settlement of prehistoric settlers who, from the year 2500 AD left record of their presence with the numerous existing cave paintings in caves and where they lived. The Celtic peoples set up their forts in strategic places. Today only remains are conserved. With the arrival of the Romans, this place was born and given the name "Mons Fragorum" (rough mountain), alluding to its spectacular landscape, which in that period must have been even more impressive with its wild rivers and impenetrable forests. There are remains of Roman bridges, roads and tombs. From 713 AD until the XII century the Arabs populated this land, building numerous towers and buildings. Monfrague castle is the best conserved. Construction of Cardenal bridge during the XV century, the only place through which the River

Cardenal bridge

MonfragĂźe National Park

Royal Eagle

trees, durillos, labernums and heathers, which are intermingled among oaks, cork trees and gall oak. They are practically impenetrable. The shady hillsides are less humid and have greater exposure to insulation. They show less dense vegetation dominated by wild olives, lentiscus, rockrose, brooms and thomboid. In the extensive network of the tributaries of the large rivers (BarbaĂłn, Barbaoncillo, Calzones, Malvecino), and where the changes in the level of the reservoir does not affect the development of vegetation on the banks, there lies a thick border of ash trees and willows. Alisedas above are frequent, forming authentic gallery

Tajo waters above the AlcĂĄntara Roman bridge can be crossed, favoured trade to a large extent and the transit of persons through these rural spots. The presence of bandits who took advantage of the passage of goods obliged Carlos III to found the hamlet of Villareal de San Carlos, where a military settlement was set up to protect travellers.

FLORA AND FAUNA Monfrague Natural Park is situated in the heart of one of the best-conserved areas of Mediterranean forest on the Southwestern peninsula. Oak and cork trees predominate on the plains and soft hillsides, the most abundant tree species. Pastures mainly have permanent pastures and, patches of jarales having modelled their structure on livestock and to a lesser extent, agriculture. Mountain hillsides with greater slopes (Corchuelas, Santa Catalina) and a large part of the Rivers Tajo and Tjetar have dense vegetation, practically unaltered by man. It is possible to reflect on what must have been the original state of the Mediterranean forest. The shady hillsides show multicoloured bushy vegetation of strawberry

Black Stork

Monfrag端e National Park

Stag in the pasture

Black Vulture

Egyptian Vulture

forests. Immediately nearby the banks and in the most humid areas it is also possible to find other rarer species such as almez, Montpellier maple and holly. In the seasonal rivers, generally dry in summertime, the banks are covered by a type of spurge and oleander. The cliffs and rocks are usually crowned with junipers, which grow among the cracks of the hard quartzite. The repopulation of eucalyptus is progressively replaced by indigenous species with the

objective of recovering rare natural areas and increasing the area of holm oak and cork oak trees. The importance of Monfrague fauna is due to a large extent to the extraordinary combination of hillside with dense vegetation, rocks, and extensive open areas, facilitating the fauna with places to take refuge and nest as well as feed. The holm and cork oak trees have the largest and densest population of black vultures in the world with more than 250 14

MonfragĂźe National Park

couples. It is easy to observe individuals during any visit. The Iberian imperial eagle, an endangered species has 11 reproductive couples in the park and its surrounding area. This is one of the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest conservation values. The visitor will be surprised by the river cliffs, rocks where numerous species nest, such as the black stork, tawny vulture, royal eagle, Egyptian vulture, peregrine falcon, royal eagle owl and chough. In the Gypsy Fall, the most frequented and famous enclave in the park, all these species can be seen in spring with a little luck. The storks nest situated in the other bank of the River Tajo are spectacular, as its Tawny Vulture Mountain climbing

Parque Natural de Monfrag端e

Shady pathway 16

Monfrag端e National Park

The mountain patches serve as a refuge for a large population of stags and wild boar which can also be observed in full daylight if they are not hunted. During the stag period (September), the hoarse sounds of the male fill the meadows, where they compete for females.

proximity facilitates contemplating incubation or the chicks without disturbance. The tawny vulture with more than 400 couples is the most abundant species on the rocks, constantly flying over the mountains and hillsides. Other interesting birds of prey that can be observed are the: snaked eagle, royal eagle, sparrowhawk and black-winged kite. In the reservoirs, especially in winter, it is easy to see cormorants, royal herons, mallard and seagulls. The rarity of rabbits has provoked the decline of Iberian lynx in the park, but one of its last redoubts and a habitat very favourable for its survival can be found here. The wild cat, ginet or the mongoose are frequent.

ITINERARIES CERRO GIMIO Total length: 7 km Leaving from Villareal de San Carlos and following a path that leads to Arroyo de Malvecino, you climb up to Cerro Gimio, crossing riverbanks with alder trees, meadows and dense scrubland areas. Excellent panoramas.

View from the castle

Monfragüe National Park

LA TEJADILLA Total length: 9 km

VILLAREAL – CASTILLO DE MONFRAGUE Total length: 10-16 km

From the hill where the Villareal helicopter base is located, a path leaves parallel to the River Tietar that arrives at Los Saltos de Torrejón, next to the dam. You mainly pass through meadowland and scrubland areas. The Fuente del Alisar and Fuente de los Tres Caños are a must, halfway. From the La Tejadilla viewpoint, equipped with an fauna observatory it is possible to see Egyptian vulture, black vulture, tawny vulture in the cliffs and luck permitting, otters in the waters of the Tíetar.

From the huts situated below Villareal, you can arrive at Monfrague castle. A royal track, still in use leads to the Puente del Cardenal, that facilitates crossing to the other side of the river Tajo until you arrive at the Fuente del Francés. The climb to the castle is made through the shady spot of the mountain. You have to climb up a steep slope that is partly mitigated by the beauty of the vegetation which surrounds the visitor during the climb. From the summit, spectacular views of the Gypsy Fall are seen, the linear

Climb to the castle

Monfrag端e National Park

journey through the shady spot and arrive at la Casa de Camineros near to the Cardenal bridge. A large diversity of landscape: banks, hillsides, gardens, oak woods, cork oaks, strawberry trees, etc. Excellent for seeing birds of prey.

disposition of the mountains and extensive hillsides. You go down through the sun terrace and continue the itinerary down the road in the direction of Villareal, until you arrive again at Fuente del Frances, where we take up the initial route. Form here you may extend the Gypsy falls

Monfragüe National Park

Popular architecture

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS

to disturbance, routes or itineraries different to those highlighted by the General Environment Management should not be used. Camping is not permitted in the park. There is a park near to Villareal, on the Cáceres-Trujillo road. Staying in the Villareal huts is only for groups who are carrying out educational environmental projects and by prior request to the park management. Visit is recommended in Spring, Autumn and Winter.

Any visit to Monfrague must be started at the visitors centre, where information can be obtained on routes, itineraries and activities. At the same time, specific and useful information can be obtained. For groups it is useful to arrange a prior appointment by calling the park information telephone and indicating what type of activity you are interested in. Given the importance of the park species and their sensitivity Monfragüe Guesthouse

Monfragüe National Park

Roast Kid

WHERE TO STAY

Cáceres, National Heritage Site and the medieval Trujillo and Plasencia, with an artistic historical heritage recognised by all are to be found near Monfrague Natural Park.

Rural lodgings in Torrejón el Rubio, Serréjon and Malpartida de Plasencia, three localities whose municipalities form part of the limits to Monfrague natural park. The park also has a campsite in the municipal terminal of Malpartida de Plasencia, apart from an excellent hostel near to Torrejón el Rubio with the same name as the park; the area has some interesting hotels.

Plasencia Cathedral

WHAT TO EAT Breadcrumbs fried in garlic, lamb and kid, trout, cheeses, honey, sweets and liqueurs from the area.

NEARBY PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST Plasencia, Trujillo and Cáceres. Let’s not forget the closeness of Ambroz valley, Jerte valley and the La Vera region with their excellent landscapes that arise from an exceptional climate, where original traditional architecture can be admired. 21

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

CORNALVO N AT U R A L PA R K

Cornalvo Natural Park

LEGAL PROTECTION

after the contentious proposals against this. From then on, the creation of the Junta Rectora and the investments made favoured a greater degree of understanding between all sides involved in the conservation of this protected space. Not in vain, the first protection attempt already managed to hold off the first threat that hung over this area. The idea to urbanise the banks of the Cornalvo reservoir by means of

In 1988 when the development of environmental legislation was still in its beginning the declaration of Cornalvo as a natural park was proposed but without success. Up to 1993 it was not declared officially by means of Decree by the Extremadura Town Council. It did not start its unstoppable journey until 1997, once the High Court of Justice failed to favour the creation of the park

Cork oak trees

Cornalvo Natural Park

Pasture in springtime

SITUATION

the construction of chalets would have completely broken the natural harmony of such singular landscape and the possibilities of its public use. It also put an end to the repopulation of eucalyptus, whose effect still remains patent in the whole Sierra Berneja which was excluded from the park for this reason. The natural park also has also been declared a Special Protection Area for Birds since 1989. The Cornalvo reservoir and Sierra Berneja are therefore known as SPAB, although its limits coincide fully with those of the natural park. Similarly, in 1999 it was included in the proposal of sites of community importance (SCI) for its inclusion in the Nature 2000 network.

Cornalvo Natural Park is located approximately in the geographical centre of Extramadura, on the Vegas del Guadiana. It may be considered the vertex of the two mountainous formations that converge on this particular enclave. On the one hand, the mountainous line-up of Sierra de San Pedro and on the other, the Sierras de MontĂĄnchez, a prolongation of the great Villuercas massif. This is the last mountainous barrier before crossing the Guadiana valley. In its more than 10,500 ha area the municipal areas of MĂŠrida, Aljucen, Mirandilla, San Pedro de MĂŠrida and Guarena are partially included. The locality of Trujillanos is the traditional entry to the park. It is not

Cornalvo Natural Park

included within its limits but it houses the exhibition centre.

ACCESS Easy access through its proximity to MĂŠrida, capital of Extramadura, and because a large part of the park delimits the main two communication roads in the region. From the N630 it is possible to enter from Aljucen. There are two access points on both banks of the river of the same name. On this same road, taking the road to Mirandilla, you arrive on a good road that leaves from this city, at the San Isidro hermitage, on the Southwest limit of the park. From motorway A-5, passing through Trujillanos, the main entrance to the park is to be found, through which direct access to the exhibition centre and Cornalvo reservoir is gained, the places most frequented by visitors. Also, directly from the motorway in the direction of San Pedro de MĂŠrida, you can arrive at Cornalvo reservoir following the Camino de MontĂĄncez, which leaves from the outskirts of the city. Nevertheless, it is recommended not to make this entrance by car. It is more comfortable to arrive on foot or by bicycle.

Park Signpost

The centre has various rooms with information on the history of the creation of the park, the most significant natural values, the biology of the emblematic species and the most interesting routes. Special attention will be paid to spreading the ecological value of the pastures as an unequalled model of sustainable development, as well as their origin from the patient action of man, the variety of the existing pastures by virtue of their management and the important natural resources that they contribute. Another room deals with the water cycle in detail, with special emphasis on the rational use that the Romans made of this resource, by means of the construction of dams, canals and aqueducts. In the same room, there is a space that will be dedicated to the ecological aspects of the different types of existing humid zones in

EQUIPMENT Cornalvo Natural Park has an exhibition centre, located in the Trujillanos Pasture, just at the start of the road that leaves towards Cornalvo reservoir and next to San Isidro hermitage. The outside design of the building is inspired in the typical country houses of the region. A very old oak lies in the inside patio. 25

Cornalvo Natural Park

the park, such as rivers of permanent caudal, stationary rivers, puddles and reservoirs and the associated flora and fauna. There is also a projection room that offers visitors the possibility of a virtual visit with images and sounds. The centre also houses the park management offices and monitors that offer information to visitors.

HISTORY While there exist remains of other previous cultures that populated the valleys of the rivers Aljucen and Albarregas, this land remained profoundly marked by the prolonged presence of the Romans, leaving as a legacy numerous constructions that have been preserved up to the present day. In this way, the Cornalvo Roman dam may be considered as one of the best examples of Roman hydraulic construction and despite its age, it continues to fulfil the function for which it was built, that of supplying drinking water to the population. Due to its beauty and magnificent state of conservation it was declared a

Royal Heron

National Monument in 1912. The dam gave rise to the formation of an extensive water reserve that was adapted to the sinuosities of a modest shallow valley, just where the River Albarregas starts. In this way, in settling in the valley, the reservoir adopted a definitive curious form of an inverted horn (“cuerno”) which gave rise to the name Cornalvo. It resulted from joining together the words “cornus” (referring to the form of the horn) and “albus” (alluding to the white waters of Albarregas), the stream of the white rocks.

Exhibition centre

Cornalvo Natural Park

water to completely fill the Cornalvo reservoir, but avoiding that this results in filling it to the brim with the mud and sand that usually drags the violent waters unleashed in the strong rains. In fact, the Cornalvo reservoir is considered the oldest reservoir on the European continent that remains functioning, hardly requiring drainage during its more than two thousand years existence. Apart from the dam, numerous canals and underground drains that were patiently drilled through the soil and which led the water towards an aqueduct of which hardly anything left is conserved apart from some branches. This supplied water to the Roman city of Emerita Augusta, the current MĂŠrida. Of the Roman presence it is worth emphasising that the park is crosses by the VĂa de Plata, one of the main roads that crossed the river Aljucen by a stone bridge, of which only traces remain.

Common Stork

The complex hydraulic designed by the Romans is a magnificent example of environmental engineering, which should serve as a model for some of the work that are currently being carried out. The limited basin that contributes water to the reservoir made it necessary to construct another small dam in Arroyo del Muelas, which flows more to the North, from where a canal leaves which covers the excess of water coming from the run-off water of the rough shady spots of the Sierra de Bermeja. The canal, in its sinuous journey following the curves leads the

FLORA AND FAUNA Cornalvo Natural park is one of the best representations of pasture ecosystems and its traditional accompaniments. The Cornalvo reservoir

Cornalvo Natural Park

Cork tree

oak and cork trees dominate its landscape, which give rise to various formations with which very interesting flora and fauna are associated. These beautiful places are part of the final redoubt of vegetation that centuries ago occupied the meadows of the River Anas, the Guadiana, as well as the rough Sierras that marked its journey. The quality of the land and the possibilities of introducing cultivation of livestock made the elimination of large areas of cork

and oak trees in all Guadiana meadows possible. They are now reduced to treed islands in a sea of livestock cultivation. In fact, the Southern and Eastern limits of Cornalvo Natural Park are surrounded by livestock cultivation, which are interrupted when you arrive at the pastures situated on the park hillsides. The Cornalvo pastures were saved throughout the centuries from human transformations due to the majority of the park being occupied by an immense block of granite that surfaces everywhere, giving rise to capricious formations in which not too demanding vegetation has prospered. The low depth of the soil and the granite rocks prevented these rocks having another use apart from pasture. It is impossible to maintain large areas of cultivation of dry farming or livestock. The Cornalvo pastures are characterised by their notable diversity. There are cork and oak pasture, mixtures of both species, cultivated, with bushes, with permanent pastureland, etc, creating a mosaic that

Wild Donkeys

Cornalvo Natural Park

constitutes the essence of its natural richness. The two main mountainous formations, Sierra Bermeja and Sierra del Moro conserve in the highest part of their hillsides, great areas of forest and Mediterranean scrubland, where there are many species such as strawberry, piruĂŠtano, labernum, romero, lentiscus, heathers and cistuses. On the hillsides towards the shady spots, a change in the vegetation can be perceptibly appreciated. Trees such as Kermes oak and wild olive are the most abundant. The cork oak plains, barely represented in Extremadura through them having been transformed into cultivation by the fertility of the land where they are located, find some well conserved formations in Cornalvo. THE reason for its existence is the important value of rubber. In the extensive river network, made up of four main banks (River Aljucen, Albarregas, Arroyo del Muelas and Arroyo de la Fresneda) and more than thirty small tributaries, makes possible the development of a large diversity of copses on its banks. The ash trees are especially spectacular which form almost impenetrable galleries in some branches, as well as distinguished and old isolated ash trees. The spurge which follows the sinuous course of the river, sometimes hiding the bank. In the Ajucen, the oleanders are more frequent, alternating with willows and ash trees throughout its journey. As a consequence of the structural diversity of a habitat made up mainly of Mediterranean forest,

Kingfisher

pastures and riverbanks, Cornalvo park has at least 249 species of vertebrates. Birds are the most represented group with 175 species, followed by mammals (31 species), reptiles (16), fish (14) and amphibia (13). The most emblematic park species is undoubtedly the black stork, an endangered species, which nests in the most closed and quietest cork oak trees. It is relatively easy to observe examples feeding in the rivers and puddles. The absence of significant rocks limits to a large extent the nesting of some birds. However, the forest birds of prey are well represented. The eagle is frequent, as well as the black kite, royal kite, sparrowhawk and black-winged kite. The black

Cornalvo Natural Park

park, it is possible to observe steppe birds such as great bustard, little bustard and young eagle. The calm waters of the reservoirs and puddles acquire special importance in winter. They are used by cormorants, mallard, duck, teal, royal heron and seagull. In pastures near to country houses, the holm oaks are crowned by numerous white stork nests, forming colonies where numerous couples are abundant. The jarabugo, an endemic fish in the Guadiana basin is frequent in the river Alijucen, a place which was discovered for science in 1866. Currently to be found there catalogued as endangered species, hiding in the branches least altered by man. Therefore the greater part of the River Aljucen branch that crosses the park is considered a restricted use zone. Other species present in the rivers are the boga, linnet, barbel, and caladino, all of them indigenous. Within the amphibia the extraordinary density of Iberian toad is worth special mention, with a very restricted distribution area on the peninsular. The salamander, a species generally associated with mountain forests is also present in the most shady cork oak trees, especially in the least altered hillsides. The Iberian lynx, which in time could be seen on these mountains and pastures taking advantage of the great density of rabbit are currently very decimated by disease and have not been seen since the start of the 1980s.

Fox

Wild Boar

Jarabugo

vulture and tawny vulture although not nesting birds, come to pastures searching for food coming from colonies near the Sierra de San Pedro. In the cereal cultivation situated in the immediate vicinity of the 30

Cornalvo Natural Park

ITINERARIES

Muelas reservoir it is easily possible to observe water birds. It is advisable to do this route on bicycle.

CORDEL DEL CERRO DEL GATO Total length: 7 km Leaving from the right margin of the River Aljucen, from the bridge on the N-630, a road in good condition introduces us to the most densely treed area of the park, crossing beautiful oak grove pastures. The road passes parallel to the river where the hillside vegetation is very dense, facilitates the observation of numerous aquatic birds, especially in the pools.

CORDEL DEL PUERTO Total length: 4 km A cattle track used since ancient times to climb Sierra Bermeja through the least difficult pass. At the start of the pass can be found the San Isidro hermitage and as we go down towards the Aljucen valley pastures, excellent views can be seen. CORDEL DE SANTA MARIA DE ARAYA Total length: 5 km The route starts on the road that leads to the Muelas dam, continues parallel to the Arroyo de la Fresneda wit exuberant hillside and forest vegetation. At the start of the route, el Berrocal del Rugidero can be visited.

CORNALVO PASTURES Total length: 18 km This is the longest route within the park, covering extensive areas of oak grove pastures on granite soil from the River Alujucen to the Muelas reservoir. It facilitates modifying by crossing other recommended routes. In the

Roman dam

Cornalvo Natural Park

CORNALVO RESERVOIR Total length: 7 km Route that goes round the perimeter of the reservoir and that starts from the Roman dam. It passes through oak and cork groves and the vegetation on the hillsides crowned by the peak of Guijarrpblanco is particularly noteworthy. From the tail of the reservoir the route can be continued to Rugidero passing through Cordel de Santa MarĂa de Araya.

Cork oak trees

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS

BERROCAL DEL RUGIDERO Total length: 11 km A place where outcrops of granite are most spectacular. There are large balls with capricious formations, modelled over time. El Arroyo de la Muelas crossed this impressive granite mass and the persistent force of the water has dislodged the rock and sculpted curious forms, creating rills and cavities. The large gaps and tunnels act as an immense resonance chamber that makes the granite palpitate when it is crossed by water.

Any visit to the park must be started from the exhibition centre, where information is offered on the most convenient itineraries and other recommendations. Opposite the exhibition centre, in the pasture where the San Isidro hermitage is to be found, there is an resting area with tables for large visitor groups. The majority of the Natural Park routes cross exploitations dedicated to extensive livestock. Care must be taken to close all doors and gates that open

Berrocal del Rugidero

Cornalvo Natural Park

PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST NEARBY

to avoid problems with the livestock. Bathing is not permitted in Cornalvo reservoir due to the dam supplying drinking water. A visit to Berrocal del Rugidero is recommended just after the Autumn or Spring rains, when the volume of flow of Arroyo de las Muelas is greater and the sound of water in the granite gaps is more spectacular. When the granite rocks are humid, precaution must be taken when walking on them due to the risk of falls.

Mérida, Trujillo, Cáceres and Badajoz. Mérida has an archaeological set recognised by the UNESCO as a national heritage site and is worth dedicating a few hours to. Through the motorway N-V, Badajoz and Trujillo offer incredible samples of its historic artistic heritage and a few kilometres away Cáceres can be found, a place of national heritage with a historical old quarter that is among the best conserved in Europe. In Alange and Almendralejo, a very short distance from Mérida, we can visit their famous Roman water heaters and in the case of Almendralejo it is its fame is recognised in the whole region because of its magnificent vineyards, where wine and liqueurs can be tasted.

WHERE TO STAY Rural lodging in Mirandilla, two campsites in Mérida and a magnificent set of hotels in the and in some of the localities that form part of this Natural Park.

WHAT TO EAT Moje de boga, Barbel, cold meats and Iberian ham, stew and Extremaduran breadcrumbs, gazpacho, small game dishes, homemade sweets, wines and liqueurs from the area.

Mérida Roman Theatre

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

GARGANTA

EXTREMADURA

LOS INFIERNOS

N AT U R A L PA R K

Garganta de Los Infiernos Natural Park

LEGAL PROTECTION

observation point to the narrow valley that opens subsequently to Cáceres. The reduced area of the reserve, 6800 ha. Is distributed between three municipal terminals, Torravacas, Cabezuela del Valle and Jerte.

Currently it is the only existing Natural Reserve among the network of Natural Protected Spaces in Extremadura. It was declared as such in 1994, by means of decree where the specific description of its limits is set out. As to its natural values, especially the mountain habitats, the Garganta de los infiernos natural reserve forms part of the place of community importance (SCI) known as “Sierra de Gredos and Valle de Jerte”, proposed by the Autonomous Community of Extremadura for its inclusion in the future Nature 2000 network.

SITUATION Garganta de los infiernos Natural Reserve is found at the head of the Valle del Jerte region on the Southeast slope of the Sierra de Gredos. It is the port of entry to Extremadura from the province of Avila, a real 35

Garganta de Los Infiernos Natural Park

Jerte

ACCESS

distance allows, can be observed from the said pass, both the precipitous summits and the forest hillsides.

The N-110 constitutes one of the limits of the reserve and therefore access is easy from the said road that communicates Plasencia and Avila. Without a doubt, Plasencia is the reference city to arrive at the reserve due to it being found just at the exit of the River Jerte valley. From the N-360 it is also possible to arrive, taking the road that from Hervas, communicates Ambroz valley with Jerte valley by the Honduras Pass. A magnificent panorama of the whole natural reserve, with the perspective the

EQUIPMENT Unlike other protected spaces, the Garganta de los infiernos Natural Reserve has three exhibition centres, one in each municipality. The first to open was the Jerte exhibition centre, situated close to the locality, at the same entry that leads us to the Emperor Carlos V Provincial Campsite. The centre has a series of models and panels that

Exhibition centre

Garganta de Los Infiernos Natural Park

As we climb, the oak copses gradually disappear and from 600 m to 1000 m of altitude the tree stratum is dominated by oak melojos, which cover extensive areas of the Sierras. In some areas the oak groves were replaced by chestnut trees through manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intervention, giving rise to beautiful landscape formations, especially during Autumn. There is also great ecological interest through contributing food to the wild fauna during winter and refuge in its tangle of branches and cavities. The share the substratum with other tree species such as gall oak, ash, tree strawberry, blackthorn, holly, or durillo. Some climbing species such as white bryony, black bryony, ivy, or honeysuckle are also frequent in the groves as well as the bracken. Above 1000 m, where the summit and the soil limits the development of the forests to a large extent, piornales and

show the best environmental characteristics of the sierra. They represent the most significant habitats by means of scale drawings and imitations of various species, that are very realistic. The centre includes a projection room for visitors and reserve management offices.

FLORA AND FAUNA The difference in altitude in the Natural Reserve, which reaches 630m in the lowest contour up to 2432 in the Angostura peak males it possible to represent bioclimactic peaks to which are associated different types of vegetation and consequently fauna. In the lowest areas, still with Mediterranean influence, oak groves mixed with small woods of melojo oak and cork trees are to be found. The latter are very scarce in the area. Accompanying species are heather, escoba, broom, cantueso and hawthorn.

Tawny Vulture

Reserva Natural de la Garganta de los Infiernos

Garganta de Los Infiernos Natural Park

bushes appear. These are very adapted to the hard mountain conditions, resisting intense snow and cold. Next to the piornales, sometimes very degraded by fire, heathers, laburnums, escobonales and creeping junipers appear. On the highest summits the only vegetation that can resist such hard environmental conditions are pasturelands, known here as cervunales, by the presence of a grass called cervuno, very valuable as a food for livestock, generally accompanied by a varied cohort of herbs favoured in part by the destruction of the piornales for livestock us. The summit rocks, where snow can persist for several months is the dominion of lichens and moss that colour the grey stony areas in a peculiar fashion. The presence of some examples of must be emphasised, a very rare species in the region and catalogued as an endangered species. The variety of habitats, the successive gradation of bioclimactic and the excellent

Royal Eagle

degree of conservation, means that high values of biological diversity are reached, as is usual in this type of transition area. Thus, forestry birds are very well represented, such as the honey buzzard, eagle, azor, sparrowhawk, small eagle owl, chigoe, lesser spotted woodpecker, golden oriole, mistlethrush, nuthatch, short-toed treecreeper, papiablo mosquito, robin, jay or chaffinch. Red Lizard

Garganta de Los Infiernos Natural Park

Fox

ITINERARIES

In the mountains the most characteristics birds are acentor alpino, common acentor, bluethroat, spectacled warbler and grey mallet. Royal eagle, tawny vulture, and peregrine falcon nest in the rocks. In the case of mammals, mountain goat, deserve special mention, only present in the Gredos summit region and considered an important synergetic resource, as well as the excess of the Pyrinees and the ratilla naval, species whose more meridional distribution limit is found in these mountains. In the clear river waters, especially in the lowest branches, the otter appears, relatively frequent in the reservoir. The rivers present great wealth of. Trout is noteworthy, that occupies the branches with the coldest and oxygenated waters. In the average and lower branches bogas, barbel and calandinos appear.

PILONES-REFUGE From the exhibition centre you climb a track completely surrounded all the way by oak and chestnut groves and which goes up to the hillside forests. The end point of the journey are the Pilones, beautiful landscape where water erosion has formed the well known giant cooking pots, large circular depressions excavated on the rocky river bed, giving rise to a succession of spectacular waterfalls and wells. This is the most popular enclave, especially in summer, as visitors may bathe after a pleasant walk. From los Pilones and crossing the Sacristan bridge, near to la Garganta de las Yeguas, you arrive at the refuge. CARLOS V ROUTE Leaving from Tornavacas, an ancient and historic path crosses half the hillside of the Natural Reserve, passing though the most representative habitats. 40

Garganta de Los Infiernos Natural Park

through a cattle track on which migrating cattle traditionally came down from the North of the peninsula. The journey leaves from the exhibition centre and continues parallel to the river Jerte until you arrive at Largo bridge in the locality of Jerome. Excellent for getting to know the flora and fauna of the hillside.

The other hillside of the Jerte valley can also be contemplated. It passes above the Pilones crossing the high branch of Garganta de los Infiernos and Garganta de las Yeguas, until it crowns at Collado de las Yeguas, where it abandons the reserve and continues to Jarandilla. This route was used by Carlos V to reach the Yuste monastery where it ends. Recommended for mountain walkers.

HIGH EXTREMADURA ROUTE From Tornavacas we climb a path that leads us to the highest

CORDEL DEL VALLE Interesting itinerary that passes Los Pilones

Garganta de Los Infiernos Natural Park

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS

summits of the reserve, following to a large extent the provincial limit with Avila. From Loma de los Sillares the slope intensifies and continues through el Collado Herido and Collado Carbiel up to Collado de Portilla Honda, situated at more than 2000 m in altitude and with a dominant view of a large part of the Gredos massif.

Due to the very hard mountain conditions and the sudden weather changes that can surprise the visitor it is recommended to always take an overcoat and protection against the rain. Given the difficulty of determined routes, it is useful to

Mountain walkers in the reserve

Garganta de Los Infiernos Natural Park

Cherries

WHAT TO EAT

request information from the Reserve personnel, who will be able to advise on the most appropriate routes for each group based on their preferences. Many of the Reserve flora species are strictly protected because they are endemic species or very scarce. Therefore no plant should be picked. The Pilones, the area which covers a greater number of visitors is for this reason the most vulnerable, and it is recommended exercising caution to avoid leaving waste or remnants from your presence and contribute to this continuing to be a beautiful place where the intensive use by the public is compatible with its preservation.

Trout, kid, cochifrito, Extremaduran stew, pumpkin â&#x20AC;&#x153;morallaâ&#x20AC;?, cold meats, cherries, brandies, traditional liqueurs and sweets.

PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST NEARBY Plasencia is one the most important artistic and historic places in Extramadura. Noteworthy among other buildings are its city walls, the cathedral and am incredible number of palaces, stately homes and religious buildings, which, built in Roman, Renaissance and Baroque style, mean an unforgettable example of heritage. We can find popular architecture in all populations that form part of the Jerte valley region. Some of them are declared a Historical site of interest. A few kilometres away, by crossing attractive mountain passes we can visit the neighbouring regions of Ambroz and La Vera valley.

WHERE TO STAY Rural lodging in Tornavacas, Cabezuela del Valle, Navaconejo, as well as in Jerte where excellent guest house is situated. This last locality also has a campsite, the same as Navaconejo. For those who wish to stay in hotels they can go to Tornavacas, Jerte and Cabezuela del Valle. 43

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

LOS BARRUECOS N AT U R A L M O N U M E N T

CA MI NO DE A LA CAÑADA LD EA DEL CANO -

CHARCA DE FRASCO DÍEZ

MOLINO

TORRE ORGAZ O IN M CA

CARRETERA DEL LAVADERO DE LANAS

Los Barruecos Natural Monument

MOLINO

M DE

CHARCA DEL BARRUECO DE ARRIBA

Z HE

FUENTE DE LOS BURGAÑOS

NC TÁ

FUENTE DE LA SERRANA

MOLINO

MUSEO VOSTELL MOLINO CHARCA DEL PEÑAS DEL TESORO BARRUECO DE ABAJO

DEHESA DE LAS TRESCIENTAS

CENTRO DE INTERPRETACIÓN DE LA NATURALEZA

LEGAL PROTECTION

terminal municipality of Malpartida de Cáceres and occupies an area of 319 has.

This was the first of the natural monuments declared in the region. Its creation decree was published in 1996. Subsequently, in the Conservation , Nature and Natural Spaces Law 8/98 of Extremadura the said figure and protection was recognised and integrated into the Natural Spaces Network of Extremadura.

Storks nest in a crag

SITUATION The extensive plains that extended over a large part of the land included between Brozas and Trujillo, settled on the Caceran peninsula appear peppered in some enclaves by outcrop blocks of granite but not so spectacular as those of los Barruecos. The Natural Monument environment has pastureland areas and cultivation as well as oak isolated groves that bring great value to the area. The protected space is completely located in the 45

Los Barruecos Natural Monument

road that leads to the Vostell-Malpartida or Lavadero de Lana Museum, conveniently signposted for visitors.

EQUIPMENT There is an exhibition centre situated in the proximity of la Charca del Molinillo, in which the main geological, botanical and fauna particularities of the space can be seen as well as other aspects related to the presence of man in Barruecos. Right next to the centre there is a restored mill that perfectly conserves the dam that supplied it water as well as the operating machinery which can also be visited by the public.

HISTORY The presence of Neolithic remains is worthy of mention, especially the calcolitic group known as “Las Peñas del Tesoro”, of which some remains are conserved and which have contributed and valuable archaeological remains. Of the Roman presence, two bronze kids that were dedicated to the Goddess Ataecina’s cult are worthy of note. The first dam which facilitated collecting water in Barruecos

Crags

ACCESS Taking Cáceres as a reference which is arrived at easily from any point you have to follow the N-521 road in the direction of Valencia de Alcántara. Arriving at Malpartida de Cáceres, continue along the Vostell-Malpartida Museum

Los Barruecos Natural Monument

was constructed in the XVI century. The two remaining ones were built subsequently between the XVIII and XIX centuries to set up the wool washing house which was a valuable commercial resource in that period.

FLORA AND FAUNA Los Barruecos Natural Monument is basically made up of a set of reservoirs, connected between themselves and surrounded by an immense granite outcrop of great geological beauty due to the diversity of its boulders that have suffered erosions over the centuries and have curiously modelled their forms. The bolos, technically known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Domosâ&#x20AC;? are the main geological attraction of such a curious and singular formation. The most representative flora associated with the granite formations are the white escobas and laburnum, configuring a striking landscape when flowering occurs in spring. Piruetanos, spurge flax and some isolated slips and small oak and cork forests also appear. Among the rocks, taking advantage of their fissures and cavities a peculiar flora has

Lavadero pool

settled and it is possible to find an epicentre of weeds, dedalera, oil lamps, parietarias and male ferns. The vegetation of the pools, generally with bare changes in level, facilitate its banks having abundant herbaceous Vostell Sculpture

Los Barruecos Natural Monument

Bike tourism through The Barruecos

Black Stork

vegetation. Rushes, water lentils and buttercups predominate. On the granite balls, some of them practically impregnable, a large colony of white stork has settled. It is the best known to date in which every nest settles on rock. At the end of the reproductive period when apart from the adults the chicks are born this year, it is a real spectacle to consider the rocks crowned by tens of storks. The lack stork, an endangered species does not nest in the area but uses the ponds as a feeding

and resting place during their migratory movements, mainly in summer. In the lakes, thanks to the presence of vegetation on their banks, numerous aquatic species are present such as nesting species, especially great crested grebe, little grebe, coot, moorhen, black-winged stilt, mallard, royal heron. The winter increases the number of species that use water masses. The great cormorant, lesser black-backed gull, black-headed gull, gadwall, pintail duck, wigeon and green sandpiper. Within the reptiles, the red lizard, water snake, turtle and the gallipato are worthy of note. In spring a visit at dusk to listen to the concert of amphibia in the lakes, mainly common frog and toad.

San Antonio frog

Los Barruecos Natural Monument

Walk through the area

ITINERARIES

road that leads us to the other lake. In the same way, from the Hamlet road from Cano to Torreorgaz it is possible to arrive at the tail of the Lake and start the perimetral route. During the journey you may visit a traditional chozo or bulijo, against one of the granite rocks. Excellent route for observing water birds.

Given the reduced area of the protected space, many journeys may be made in just one visit. You can get to know the whole area, both the lakes and the granite area. PEÑAS DE TESORO This is the route most frequented by visitors. Leaving from the Vostell-malpartida museum, the road surrounds the Barrueco de Abajo Lake on the South, leading us to el berrocal where las Peñas de Tesoro are to be found. From this place we may climb among the paths that pass between the granite domos. The panorama of white storks make the journey more enjoyable.

LAS TRES CHARCAS This results in joining together the two previous itineraries and is the recommended route when there is time and a feel for walking. It is recommended starting the journey from the Vostell-Malpartida museum, to climb up to Frasco Diez lake, the smallest and situated at the North of the others, continuing towards the tail of Barrueco de Abajo and passing through its banks up to la Fuente de los Burgaños. Here we can continue towards las Peñas del Tesoro and el Barrueco de Abajo, to return to the starting point.

BARRUECO DE ARRIBA A route can be started from various places that completely surrounds la Barrueco de Arriba Lake. From la Fuente de la Serrana, on the end of Barrueco de Abajo Lake, there continues a 49

Los Barruecos Natural Monument

Vostell-Malpartida Museum

Recommendations for visits For visits to the granite area it disturbing the storks nesting in the rocks should always be avoided, especially during the incubation period and when the chicks are youngest, as we may provoke reproductive failure. It is not convenient to get close to nests where an example of the species can be seen incubating. On the sandy banks with and juncos and certain species of aquatic birds usually nest, such as stork, mallard or chortlejo grande for which we must avoid getting close to the water. In the rainy period and first thing in the morning the granite is more slippery and we run the risk of falling if

we are not careful. To obtain information on the routes or on any other aspect of the Natural Monument, there is a group of guards. The Vostell-Malpartida museum, nest to the Barrueco de Abajo Lake dam, is an obligatory visit. Created in 1976 when restoring a the ancient washhouse, a large part of the work of the German artist Wolf Vostell is kept, that does not pass unnoticed by those who consider it. In the Las PeĂąas del Tesoro area some of his sculptures may also be seen. In Malpartida the museum dedicated to the contemporary painter Juan JosĂŠ NarbĂłn may also be found.

Casar Flan

Los Barruecos Natural Monument

Monumental city of Caceres

WHERE TO STAY

UNESCO, with beautiful artistic historical heritage. The area of los Barruecos Natural Monument has the famous Vostell-Malpartida museum as its demarcation that houses the work of the German artist Wolf Vostell, originally exposed in what was an ancient wool washhouse belonging to “la Mesta” (sheep and cattle farmers association). Arroyo de la luz, Brozas and Alcántara are some of the towns that surprise by their beautiful and interesting artistic historical heritage and located a very short distance from Malpartida.

As Los Barruecos Natural monument is found situated on the terminal municipality of Malpartida de Cáceres, the visitor may easily stay in any of the hotels that the town has or in the rural lodging that this locality also offers.

WHAT TO EAT Tench, cold meats and hams, Extremaduran breadcrumbs, lamb and kid stew, “Torta del Casar” cheeses.

PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST NEARBY Almost adjoining we find Cáceres, distinguished as a National Heritage site by

Fried Tench

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

LA JAYONA MINA

Mina La Jayona

FUENTE DEL ARCO

PROVINCIA DE BADAJOZ

PROVINCIA DE SEVILLA ERMITA DE LA VIRGEN DEL ARA SIERRA JAYONA

MONUMENTO A FÉLIX RODRÍGUEZ DE LA FUENTE

SANTA CRUZ

LA CAPITANA

CARRACA

MINA DE LA JAYONA SIER

RA D

E SA

N MIG

UEL

LEGAL PROTECTION Inside the mine

Declared a Natural Monument by Extremadura Town Council decree in 1997 and subsequently recognised as such in conservation, nature and natural spaces Law 8/98 leading it to form part of the Extremadura Protected Natural Spaces Network.

SITUATION The Natural Monument Mina de la Joyona is found in the Southeast of the province of Badajoz, almost limiting the province of Seville. The protected space includes the land surrounding Mina and has a total area of 80 ha. It is within the terminal municipality of Fuente de Arco.

ACCESS The reference locality to arrive at this place is Llerena, which can be reached both from Zafra (A/66) and from Azuaga, following the N-432. From Llerena, the EX-200 leads 53

Mina La Jayona

directly to Fuente de Arco from where the road which leads to Puebla del Maestra takes us to Mina. Another alternative is to enter from Azuaga or Ahillones (both on the N-432) up to Valverde de Llerena, from where we may easily continue to Fuente del Arco.

EQUIPMENT The old buildings are the of typical industrial architecture from the beginning of the century and which were previously used in Mina. They have currently been reconverted for public use. Thus, at the entrance to the building we find the information centre where the visitors are attended to and information is given on existing regulations. On the right of the main tunnel, a services area is found with picnic area and on the left the exhibition centre.

Blue rock thrush

The extraction of iron was manual at the beginning, transported by means of animals to the melt where it was processed. Subsequently, the use of explosives and a cable railway made the extraction more rapid and profitable. The mine stopped working in 1921, leaving the tunnels and galleries that are now protected opencast.

HISTORY

GEOLOGY, FLORA AND FAUNA

The mineral deposits on which Mina was built were known about from ancient times and the Romans were the first to obtain iron in this area. The exploitation of iron was not started intensively until the XX Century. The excavations that are visited are therefore relatively recent.

The excavations carried out for the extraction of iron have left interesting geological formations to be discovered. Among those which are noteworthy is an impressive flat fault of 300 m2, as well as various types of minerals and karstic formations produced by the dissolution of carbonates, giving rise to Regina roman theatre

Mina La Jayona

characterised in the area by its thermal character. Moreover there are the typical oak groves present, other species such as gall oak, wild olive, cornicabra,

crystallisations and stalactites. Outside Mina, the landscape also offers the visitor the possibility of admiring the Mediterranean vegetation,

Inner flora

Mina La Jayona

Alcazaba arabe de Reina

Ntra. Sra. de Ara hermitage (Fuente del Arco)

lentiscus and olivilla. Inside, the ferns and other fisuricola plants are frequent. Especially noteworthy is the colony of bats existing in the least accessible areas of Mina. The great horseshoe bat is present, the medium-sized buzzard bat and the cave bat. It is of special importance for also taking groups of medium-sized buzzard bat, a very threatened species and catalogued as an endangered species. In the immediate surrounding area it is possible to observe birds that have adapted to living in the rocks, such as the jackdaw, chough, black redstart, blue rock thrush, black wheatear, black starling, crag

martin and red-rumped swallow. The royal eagle owl also nests in the Mina caves.

ITINERARIES A visit to Mina is only possible by guided visit. The visitor receives explanations on the most interesting aspects, both geological and fauna and flora. The journey has a total length of 1 km and includes levels 2, 3 and 4 of Mina. The fabulous set of contrasts produced by the lights, shades, total darkness, vegetation that arrives from outside, as well as the spectacular galleries and caves, always makes this an interesting visit for the public. 56

Mina La Jayona

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS

castle inside of which can be found an interesting visigoth Hispanic basilica. In the nearby Azuaga we may admire, among other historical buildings, the Iglesia de Ntra Consolación or Iglesia de la Merced. In Berlanga, apart from getting to know its beautiful parish church, we may pass through its attractive and well cared for Berlanga Natural Park.

The total journey must be made with a helmet which is given to visitors before accessing the different levels. In the narrowest areas gathering together must be avoided. The indications from the guides that accompany the groups must be followed at all times. Only those places where access is permitted must be visited. While the fitting-out of la Mina permits the journey to be carried out in total safety, caution is essential to avoid accidents.

Llerena

WHERE TO STAY Rural lodging in the towns of Higuera de Llerena, Malcocinado, Villagarcía de la Torre and Bienvenida. There will soon be a guesthouse in Llerena and a campsite in Azuaga. These latter towns offer an interesting choice of hotels together with Berlanga. Cigüeña negra

WHAT TO EAT Game dishes, Extremaduran lamb and cachofro stew, magnificent cold meats and Iberian hams, pitarra wines and traditional sweets.

PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST NEARBY Llerena has an interesting and attractive site of artistic historic heritage. Its parish church of Ntra Sra. De la Grande and that of Santiago. In Fuente del Arco we may admire its mudejar hermitage of Ntra. del Ara. Regina conserves the restored remains of its Roman theatre and Reina has an Arab 57

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

CASTAÑAR

EXTREMADURA

DE IBOR C AV E S

LEGAL PROTECTION Declared a Natural Monument by Extremadura Town Council decree in 1997 and subsequently recognised as such in conservation, nature and natural spaces Law 8/98 leading it to form part of the Extremadura Protected Natural Spaces Network.

SITUATION The Castañar cave is found in the terminal municipality of Castañar de Ibor, close to the said locality by following the road which leads to Arroyo de los Lagares.

ACCESS If the E-90 motorway is taken, you can take the Navalmoral de la Mata exit towards Guadelupe, following the EX-118 through Peeraleda de la Mata and Bohonal de Ibor until Castañar de Ibor. From Cáceres take the road to Trujillo (N-52) and go up the E-90 a little before arriving at Puerto de Miraverte where you take the crossroads towards Deleitosa and from this locality we continue to arrive at

Robledollano and finally at Castañar. Also from the E-90 at the level of Miajadas, we can travel in the direction of Guadelupe by the EX–102 and from there by the EX-118 up to Navalvillar de Ibor and Castañar. More to the South, on the N-430 passing through Navalvillar de Pela, we can turn off towards Guadelupe and arrive at the EX-118. You will be informed about the possibilities of accessing the cave in the exhibition centre.

EQUIPMENT Castañar cave has an exhibition centre situated on the outskirts of the town, next to the olive grove where the cave is. The centre has varied equipment. Of note are the models that explain the geological processes that gave rise to the cave as well as the karstic processes in general. Moreover information is given on the environmental values of the area and the Ibor region. After the centre there is a campsite that has excellent installations.

Castañar de Ibor Caves

HISTORY

After the narrow entry, access gives way to the labyrinth of tunnels that join together various rooms or chambers over 2,300 m. The journey, apparently flat, has a difference in level of 30 m from the entrance to the deepest point. Its formation is due to the slow transformation of the carbonates that made up the original rock and which due to the effect of the underground water provoked their dissolution and created, over geological time, the forms that currently exist. The walls are recovered with calcite and aragonite giving rise to beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. The aragonite crystals delicately cover various areas, making the walls shine when light falls upon them. The main rooms of those which make up the cave are: Sala de los Lagos, Sala de las Planchas, Sala Nevada, El Jardín, Sala Roja, Sala Blanca and La Librería.

The cave was discovered by chance in 1967 by a farmer, a neighbour from Castañar de Ibor, notices that his plough was sinking in the soil and discovered the main entrance. From then it has been the object of several observations in the area especially when it started to emit steam from the entrance, creating jealously in the town. The studies concluded that it was a karstic cave and that the sinking was due to the opening of a gap in one of the tunnels. Nevertheless, the low number of persons who up to now have been inside the best known of images, has in reality given free rein to imagine what is hidden inside. In the olive grove in which it is found, similar to any other in the region, nobody suspects that the renowned cave is there. Only a path leads to the place and the entrance does not currently occupy more than one metre squared.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS Technical studies are currently being carried out to evaluate the possibility of making Castañar cave ready to visit. The fragility of the geological formations in its interior and the narrowness of some galleries make massive use by the public impossible.

GEOLOGY Castañar cave is really unique for the peculiarity of the crystallisation that are found inside, very interesting geologically and also very beautiful. Castañar de Ibor

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

FUENTES

EXTREMADURA

LEĂ&#x201C;N

C AV E S

LEGAL PROTECTION The Fuentes de Leon Caves were Declared a Natural Monument by Extremadura Town Council decree in 2001 (Decree 124/2001) and in agreement with the conservation of nature and natural spaces of Extremadura Law 8/98. Because of the importance of the cave for populations of certain species of bat, the Water Cave was proposed as a Place of Community Importance (SCI), in agreement with the Habitats Directive (92/43/ECC).

SITUATION The Natural Monument is located South of the province of Badajoz, almost in the limit with Huelva, La Sierra de TentudĂa, situated to the East, and is the most relevant reference.

Towards the North and West, the extensive olive and cork oak grove pastures give way to the South Sierra area.

ACCESS From the A/66 (Murcia-Seville) you arrive at Fuentes de Leon through Monasterio or through Fuente de Cantos, from where the roads leave to the said locality. Through Monasterio, you cross through Calera de Leon and Cabeza la Vaca. From the N-435 (BadajozHuelva) until you arrive at Fregenal de Sierra take the road towards Bodoral de la Sierra and from there to Fuentes de Leon.

EQUIPMENT There is currently no environmental equipment. Visit

Fuentes de Le贸n Caves

As to the fauna, apart from the typical species associated with Mediterranean vegetation, especially noteworthy is the colony of bats existing in some of the caves. The great horseshoe bat is present, the medium-sized buzzard bat and the common bat. In winter there can be more than 2000 examples of bats to be seen.

without express permission is not permitted.

GEOLOGY, FAUNA AND FLORA The Natural Monument of Fuentes de Leon includes a complex of natural caves distributed in a reduced area. The most significant are la Cueva de Agua, La Lamparilla, Sima Cochinos, Los Postes, Caballo and Cueva Masero. The importance of these caves is in its karstic origin and its formation is due to the alternation of the carbonates of limestone rocks through the effect of water. It is one of the rarest existing examples in Extremadura. Its open character, makes visit possible by the public once it has been equipped for such a purpose. Inside the cave there are a large number of speological characteristics. Stalactites with axe-like blades and spear-like points, heloid and curved stalactites, spicules of aragonite, as well as veils and shoulder bags half a metre in height are particularly noteworthy. There are also taller stalactites (up to 2 m) and other formations such as columns, siphons, lenares, stalagmites, tappings, bowler hats, etc. The surroundings where the caves are found show an excellent state of conservation. The Puerto and Castillo Sierras present oak and cork oak groves as well as some gall oak, mixed in with other tree species such as durillo, hawthorn, piruetano, Kermes oak, cornicabra, lentiscus, wild roses and carob tree. On the banks that cross the area ash, alder, almences and black poplars predominate.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS A visit to the Natural Monument of Fuentes de Leon Caves requires authorisation from the Environmental Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Environment.

Landscape

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

SIERRA GRANDE

EXTREMADURA

SCA

HORNACHOS

Sierra Grande de Hornachos

RÍO CENTRO DE RECUPERACIÓN ADENEX

PA LO M

ILL

DE S RA NO E R PI SI OS L

MIRADOR DE LA MAGRERA

SIERRA GRANDE

SIE

IJA

HORNACHOS

LEGAL PROTECTION

within the Protected Natural Spaces Network known as a Special Conservation Area (SCA), conserving the same limits as the SPAB.

In 1989 by application of the Birds Directive (79/409/ECC) this area was classified as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPAB). European regulations stipulated full obligatory compliance with this. Subsequently, when enacting Law 8/98 on the conservation of nature and natural spaces in Extremadura, it was included

SITUATION The Sierra de Hornachos Special Conservation Area is one of the mountainous enclaves that are dotted around the region of Tierra de Barros, situated behind

Great Sierra

Sierra Grande de Hornachos

Spire Huts

Hornachos and built on the side of one of its hillsides with a privileged location. The central position of the sierra in the region makes its waters flow into various rivers such as the Marachel, Guadamez and Palomillas, which start from the run-off water of these valleys. Towards the Southeast there is a border with the Los Molinos Reservoir with very flat land

and nearly void of trees, where dry cultivation predominate. To the Northeast its borders are more abrupt, bordering with other mountainous formations such as la Sierra de la Pedriza. Towards the South the region of Campaña sur extends out, dotted with extensive fields of dry cultivation. This is the most meridional of the central sierra, forming part of the set of important mountains that start in Sierra de Arroyo, continue through la Sierra de Peñas Blancas and end in la Hornachos, giving rise to a grandiose corridor that emerges in the surrounding plains. The protected space has an area of 12,190 ha all within the municipal territory of Hornachos.

Black Kite

ACCESS The localities from where it is easiest to arrive at Sierra de Hornachos are Mérida and Zafra, both communicated via the N-630. From Mérida, following the N-630 in the direction of Sevilla we take the road towards Alange, before arriving at Torremejía. From Alange we continue in the direction of Palomas and Puebla 64

Sierra Grande de Hornachos

Fuente del Moro

originally heavily populated with vegetation, attracted the attention of all cultures that settled here. Cave paintings are numerous in the quartzite summits, mainly from the Neolithic and Bronze age. On the borders of the SCA, are found the remains of the Roman town of Hornachuelos, but it was long the home of Arabs who left more of a mark on the

de la Reina and from there arrive at Hornachos crossing the road between Sierra Grande and Sierra de Piños. From Zafra, and climbing the N630 towards Mérida, we may opt to enter from Villafranca de los Barros or from Almendralejo. In the first case, you have to arrive at Ribera del Fresno and from there at Puebla del Prior until Hornachos. Through Almendralejo, take the road EX105 that surrounds the tails of the Alange reservoir which leads us to Palomas.

Tawny Vultures

EQUIPMENT There is no exhibition centre in the Sierra de Hornachos SCA. The conservative association ADENEX has a Fauna Recovery Centre in the Sierra Grande Biological Reserve, where environmental lectures are also given. The Hornachos Town Council has an area equipped for visitors called “La Fuentecita”, where you can even stay the night in typical Hornachan huts.

HISTORY The privileged situation of these sierra, dominating great expanses of land, which were 65

Sierra Grande de Hornachos

area. Horncahos castle is proof of this, which crowns the sierra, as well as numerous buildings, fountains, gardens, etc. The great importance of Hornachos in Moorish culture is one of the enclaves where they lived for a long time.

The sierra shady places have mixed oak and cork oak groves, especially in areas with deeper and more humid soil, generally accompanied by typical species: strawberry tree, durillo, lentiscus, male rockrose and red heather. On the less abrupt sunny spot, there is more coscoja, acebuche, aladierno and lentiscus. The degradation of forestry hillside formations has given rise to the descent of a large variety of bush and pasture formations. Although there are more pure cork oak forests, the mixed and oak grove pastures are more frequent. They appear associated with bush species such as broom, rockrose, chive, myrtle, spurge flax, cantueso or hawthorn. In the highest areas of the Sierras juniper formations are noteworthy, which in some cases are very dense and form authentic forests. All rivers from the SCA are seasonal and their volume of

FLORA AND FAUNA La Sierra de Hornachos is made up of Sierras separated by a close discontinuity: Sierra de Pinos and Sierra Grande. These isolated Sierras amidst cultivation and pastures represent the reduction of Mediterranean vegetation that several centuries ago, extended everywhere. Now it is relegated to the pronounced hillsides where it was impossible for man to transform it with the means at his disposition. For this reason, the value that these sierra hides is the reference of a past in which trees dominated the landscape. Aerial view of the sierra

Sierra Grande de Hornachos

short-toed eagle, common buzzard, black kite, royal kite, black-winged kite, kestrel, lesser kestrel and Montaguâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harrier. The Iberian imperial eagle uses the area for hunting in Spring, but the importance of the Sierra de Hornachos, is greater for the species during the dispersion period. The presence of various examples in the area is frequent, mainly young ones. Thus, the abundance of birds of prey, some very endangered, was one of the reasons for its initial declaration as a SPAB. All forest and bush birds are very well represented, as is the case of the nuthatch, short-toed treecreeper, blackheaded whitethroat, long-tailed whitethroat, common chaffinch, golden oriole, thrush, great spotted woodpecker, etc. In the River Matachel the presence of a valuable fish is noteworthy, the jarabugo, exclusive from the River Guadama basin. One of the

flow disappears in the dry periods and especially in spring. For this reason, the vegetation is very adapted to the lack of water and hillsides are populated main by adelfa and spurge, in mixed or separated formations according to the most sunny or fresh areas. Generally, the adelfas are found in the most thermal areas, while the torvisco goes to fresh areas and tops of streams. The dense hillside vegetation makes some parts of the sierra inaccessible, favouring the nesting of numerous rupicola bird species for the safety afforded by the rocks and large trees. The presence of Bonelli's eagle, with five nesting couples is one of the most emblematic species of the SCA. On the cliffs royal eagle, Egyptian vulture, tawny vulture, peregrine falcon, royal eagle owl and black stork also nest. The abundance of birds of prey is very significant. There are also hunting eagle, Typical flora

Sierra Grande de Hornachos

main enclaves of its reduced distribution area is to be found in its water. Among the carnivore mammals, the presence of mongoose, genet and wild cat are noteworthy.

Hachas Building it is possible to see some typical huts. Exceptional views from the plains opposite the sierra both Campa単a Sur and Tierra de Barros. You can extend the route up to the SCA borders.

ITINERARIES CAMINO DE LA UMBRIA Total Length: 15 km

SIERRA DE PINOS Total Length: 8 km The Sierra de Pinos can be completely covered by following a path that covers the lower part of the hillside. To start the route we can take as a reference the Casa del Mampar, currently dedicated to rural lodging. The route offers good views of the sierra. The marked differences can be appreciated between the shady and the sunny vegetation. Some very old olive groves seem to form authentic forests. An interesting journey for birdwatching.

Long route for which you should be prepared. Recommended on bicycle. Leaving from the San Isidro hermitage, a road surrounds the Sierra Grande along the whole shady area, passing through the main bush and pasture areas and always leaving the quartzite and abrupt hillsides in view. You cross various streams that come down from the sierra. The journey ends on the HornachosPuebla de la Reina road. CAMINO DE LAS HACHAS Total Length: 2 km Short route but interesting as it takes us up into the sierra hillsides. Leaving from Pilar de San Francisco, we continue along the road that follows the whole sunny area. In the Las

CAMINO DE LOS ESCALONES-FUENTE DE LOS MOROS Total Length: 15 km On the outskirts of the town there leaves a paved path that goes to the Arab castle. Arriving

Hornachos

Sierra Grande de Hornachos

Rockrose

NEARBY PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST

at the Mozas we continue the route along the Moorish path which goes to Fuente de los Moros. The route may be considered coming down to Arroyo de los Pillones or climbing up to the Valle de los Corraletes.

Hornachos has an admirable historical legacy inherited from some of the important cultures that existed in Extremadura from prehistoric times: thus, on the land occupied by the SPAB we may admire the cave paintings of la Silla, its castle or the so-called Fuente del Moro. Within the town, an important Moorish historical nucleus peninsular until the XVII century, we can consider its Conception church in mudejar style. The towns near to Hornachos give us the possibility of getting to know some important Roman electric water heaters situated in el Balneario de Alange, or admiring the mudejar art of religious buildings in Paloma, Puebla de la Reina or Hinojosa del Valle. On the nearby Fresno bank, its parish church from the XIV century is la Ntra. Sra. de Gracia.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS Camping is not permitted. You can stay the night in the typical recreation area huts, â&#x20AC;&#x153;la Fuentecitaâ&#x20AC;?. The presence of numerous nesting birds means it is not recommended to take routes that are not signposted, as well as climbing up to the rocks or hillsides without paths.

WHERE TO STAY Various rural lodgings on the Hornachos mountain range.

WHAT TO EAT Game dishes, zorongollo, cojodongo, gazpacho, Extremaduran breadcrumbs and stew, cold meats and hams, excellent wines and homemade oils and sweets. 69

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

SIERRA

EXTREMADURA

SAN PEDRO

SCA

Sierra de San Pedro

MEMBRÍO LOS LAPONES

ARROYO DE LA LUZ

SALORINO HERRERUELA

CÁCERES

ALISEDA MALPARTIDA DE CÁCERES

R SIE

VALENCIA DE ALCÁNTARA

DE S

SAN VICENTE DE ALCÁNTARA PIEDRABUENA CASTILLO DE MAYORGA

PED R

SALTILLO PALOMAS

CASTILLO DE AZUGALA

RÍO DEL GAVILÁN

EMBALSE PEÑA DEL ÁGUILA

ALBURQUERQUE PUEBLA DE OBANDO CORDOBILLA DE LÁCARA VILLAR DEL REY

LEGAL PROTECTION

Network with the denomination of Special Conservation Area (SCA), conserving the same limits as the SPAB.

In 1989, in application of the Birds Directive (79/409/EEC), this area was classified as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPAB), fulfilling the obligatory European regulations. Subsequently, in enacting Law 8/98 on the conservation of Extremadura nature and natural spaces, it was included in the Protected Natural Spaces

SITUATION The SCA occupies the majority of the mountainous formations of the Sierra de San Pedro, that make up together with the Sierra de Montanchez and the Villuercas massif, the inverted

Cork oak grove

Sierra de San Pedro

arc that establishes the dividing line between the basins of the rivers Guadiana and Tajo. The central nucleus of this extensive protected space is made up of low or average altitude Sierras oriented towards the Northeast, that are noted for being surrounded by low land, as is the case of los Llanos de Brozas and Cáceres. The most oriental limit is found in the Sierra de Enmedio, near Cordobilla de Lacara, continuing with the Sierras of los Pajonales, sierra de Alijibe and Sierra de la Umbria, among the localities of Aliseda, Albuquerque, Herreruela, Salorino and Puebla de Obando. The West limit, almost on the border with Portugal, is situated on the Sierra de Santiago, in the locality of Santiago de Alcántara. The less abrupt area of the space is found in the Southeast, coinciding with the pastures gently settled between the River Zapaton valley and the Peña del Aguila reservoir, in Villar del Rey. Cork oak Stag

Sierra de San Pedro

This is one of the protected spaces of greatest area and the 115,032 ha it occupies are distributed between the municipal terminals of Badajoz, Villar del Rey, Albuquerque, San Vicente de Alcántara, Valencia de Alcántara, Santiago de Alcántara, Salorino, Herreruela and Aliseda.

ACCESS The reference localities to access Sierra de San Pedro are the cities of Cáceres and Badajoz, both well communicated. From Cáceres, it is recommended taking the N-521 in the direction of Valencia de Alcántara, that leads us to the Northern limit of the space, passing through Aliseda and Herreruela. From both localities we may take the roads that go towards Albuquerque, crossing the interior of the SCA through places with excellent panoramic views. Continuing towards Valencia de Alcántara, we surround the West limit and we can pass through the Southern

Cork oak acorns

Wolf

Sierra de San Pedro

Black Vulture

the road towards Aliseda, crossing the heart of Sierra de San Pedro. This is a journey with the possibility of several stops. Moreover, from the EX-100 that joins Cรกceres and Badajoz, it is recommended taking the road to Aliseda, with hardly any traffic and beautiful views of the sierra. Numerous species can be observed.

area, less mountainous but with greater pasture areas. From Badajoz, following the EX110 in the direction of Valencia de Alcรกntara, we enter Sierra de San Pedro from the South. Before passing the bridge on the River Zapaton, we may opt between going towards Valencia de Alcรกntara or taking the road towards Villar del Rey. In the first case, it is recommended arriving at San Vicente de Alcรกntara, from where we can cross to the other side of the sierra, following the road that leads to Salorino via the Helice bridge, with unequalled panoramas. If we enter through Villar del Rey, we continue along

EQUIPMENT Currently there is no exhibition centre in Sierra de San Pedro but it is planned to build one. The main routes are signposted and the places most frequented by visitors with general information on panels. 75

Sierra de San Pedro

Black-winged Kite

HISTORY

The Sierras conserve on their hillsides a dense vegetation that has progressively been cleared by man giving rise to pastures and to other stages of bush and grazing land. The said Sierras are noted on the landscape for being surrounded by softly ploughed land as is the case of Los Llanos de Brozas and Cรกceres on its north limit. In the Sierras the oak is the dominant tree species, but the cork oak is greatly distributed here as the soil is appropriate and the weather is favourable for its development. In fact, cork constitutes one of the main economic resources in the whole area and is the key for the excellent degree of conservation of cork oaks. On the high part of the Sierras the oak and cork oaks are

There is numerous evidence of other cultures and populations in the whole area throughout the centuries but the Megalithic dolmens existing in the granite area of San Vicente de Alcรกntara and Valencia de Alcรกntara deserve special attention. Some of them are in excellent condition.

FLORA AND FAUNA The Sierra de San Pedro can be considered, without doubt, the best representation of flora and fauna associated with the Mediterranean forest and bushland and possible the Iberian peninsula, both for the favourable state of conservation of the natural habitats and the presence of a large number of endangered species that live here. 76

Sierra de San Pedro

interesting pastures from the botanical and landscape point of view are those that are not made to work. They present a greater diversity of accompanying plants. In this way, the most frequent bushes in the pastures are rockrose, broom, yellow rhomboid, white rhomboid, spurge flax, rosemary and myrtle. At the head of the rivers, alders can be found to form forests that cover the whole bank. However, going down to the lower branches they are replaced by willows and ashes as well as spurges. The main fauna value of the Sierra de San Pedro is the existence of 23 nesting couples of Iberian imperial eagle. This is the most important place in the word for this endangered species. This high density of couples, that cannot be found in any other Iberian protected

accompanies by other species such as strawberry tree, durillo labernum, rooted vine and piruetano, as well as numerous bush species that make some areas nearly impenetrable. There is an abundance of rockrose, ahulaga, carquesa, red heather, white heather, and ling. Nor is there a shortage of climbing species in the forest, authentic lianas, such as ivy, honeysuckle, blackberry bush, white bryony and black bryony. The abundant presence of Alexandria rose a striking plant with large red flowers that is common in cork oak groves. The lowest part of the Sierras and the flat land is occupied mainly by pastures, presenting a large variety of forms depending on their composition, degree of clearing and use. The most frequent uses are livestock, hunting and farming. The most

Dolmen in Valencia de Alcantara

Sierra de San Pedro

space, is an important natural heritage and the SCA is a key piece in the future of this endangered species. The inaccessible hillsides are also the refuge for a whole colony of black vulture, distributed in various areas, but in total 160 couples. On a regional level this is the most important after Monfrague Natural Park. There are more than 15 couples of black stork, which nests here in rocks and also in large cork oak groves,. It is relatively easy to observe them in flight or feeding in puddles and rivers. Other species representative of these Sierras are the royal eagle (7 couples), Egyptian vulture (10 couples), short-toed eagle, red kite, black-winged kite and eagle owl. The wintering period of the woodpigeon is spectacular. This is one of the most important places on the Iberian peninsula, IT has taken some years to take

in millions of these migratory birds, attracted by the abundance of acorns on the pastures. The otter is frequent on the low branches of the rivers where it feeds mainly on red crab, but also indigenous fish such as the Iberian barbel. The populations of Iberian lynx have suffered a great decrease in the area in the last few decades, especially due to the rarity of its basic dam, the mountain rabbit. Also, the Iberian wolf that used to be seen frequently on these Sierras and which gave rise to numerous legends, has an exceptional habitat but to date, there are no data on reproductive couples. The great numbers of stag and wild pig on the patches of mountain and pastures must be emphasised. This is one of the most main economic resources of the region. During the low period, the stags may be easily seen on the road.

Aliseda and the sierra

Sierra de San Pedro

Cork development work

ITINERARIES

SAN VICENTE DE ALCANTARA-SALORINO From San Vicente de Alcรกntara railway station take the road towards Salorino. The most interesting part of the route is Port Helice (445m), the place where the road crosses Sierra de San Pedro. From there an impressive panoramic view of the vegetation of the shady hillsides and the extensive pastures that cover the Rover Salor baselevel plains can be considered. IN winter large flocks of woodpigeons can be seen feeding on the pastures or flying to their sleeping places.

ALBUQUERQUEHERRERUELA From Albuquerque there is a road to Herreruela. Throughout this journey the progressive transformation of the vegetation from original pastures to forests can be contemplated. In the first stretch the pastures surrounded by stones and escobonales that grow between the granite berrocales. As we progress the first pastures appear, very well cleared, that little by little are transformed into a continuous carpet of trees. At the sierra hillside, you can observe wellconserved Mediterranean forest and bush formation, the original vegetation that covered a large part of the territory. Halfway along the journey we can take the road towards San Vicente de Alcรกntara by crossing the pastures that surround Piedrabuena castle. It is possible to see black vulture and Bonelli's eagle on this journey, as well as large wild game species (stags).

SAN VICENTEPIEDRABUENA -RIVER ALBARRAGENA Before arriving at San Vicente when travelling from Albuquerque take an asphalt road Piedrabuena castle. The route may continue by car towards Herreruela or Albuquerque or on foot following a cattle track that runs parallel to the River Albarragena 79

Sierra de San Pedro

River Zapaton), where water species can be seen. Once in Aliseda, the exit towards the N-523 (CĂĄceresBadajoz) can be taken as an alternative, through the road that runs parallel to the Sierra de Valdelasmanos and Sierra del Horno, with a spectacular pasture landscape

up to its confluence with the River Zapaton. It is recommended not coming off the track. The predominant landscape is the oak and cork oak pastures and patches of dense woodland. VILLAR DEL REY-ALISEDA This route facilitates getting to know the most representative habitats and species of Sierra de San Pedro. An interminable succession of oak and cork oak pastures appears along the journey, marked by small Sierras (Sierra de Alpotreque, Sierra Magdalena, Sierra de la UmbrĂa), covered by an impenetrable Mediterranean mountain. Arriving at the Albuquerque crossroads, there exists the possibility of turning off towards this locality, similarly covering large expanses of pastures and hillsides covered with bushes. This route crosses some small water flows (Rivera del Saltillo,

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS The presence of numerous nests of protected species make sit necessary that the visitor exclusively uses the recommended routes or those that are signposted, not to venture on paths. The successful reproduction of these birds depends on the tranquillity and absence of disturbance which can cause irreparable involuntary damage. Access to particular buildings requires the prior authorisation of the proprietors. The importance in this area of

Stewed venison

Sierra de San Pedro

WHAT TO EAT

hunting activities especially stag and wild pig make it necessary to exert precautions between the months of November and January, to avoid surprising vernos whilst making a journey on the day of a hunt. Nevertheless, the paths or accesses to buildings are usually signposted on hunting days. A visit to Sierra de San Pedro is recommended at any time of the year. In September the bellowing of stag is especially spectacular and in winter, from the highest points and at dusk, the large bands of pigeons flying towards their sleeping places can be considered.

Tench, Extremaduran breadcrumbs and stew, game dishes, scrambled asparagus and testicles, mushrooms, cold meats and homemade sweets.

NEARBY PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST Very near to Sierra de San Pedro there are three towns noted for their attractive historic heritage: these are the cases of Valencia de Alcรกntara, San Vicente de Alcรกntara and Albuquerque that, apart from their important well conserved civil, military and religious building, they possess some of the most important megalithic concentrations on the Iberian peninsula. In Portugal and the whole cultural and artistic strip known as La Raya, small towns with the special charm of their popular architecture and their unique attractive landscapes.

WHERE TO STAY We have rural lodgings in the localities of Membrio, Valencia de Alantara and San Vicente de Alcรกntara or the use of hotels in Aliseda, Valencia de Alcรกntara, Albuquerque and Villar del Rey.

Alburquerque

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

LOS LLANOS DE Cﾃ，ERES Y SIERRA DE FUENTES SCA

EMBALSE DE ALCÁNTARA II

Los Llanos de Cáceres y Sierra de Fuentes

CASAR DE CÁCERES CASTILLEJO PIE DE VILLA EL MATO

CÁCERES

EMBALSE DE GUADILOBA

TARRAQUERRA

SANTA MARTA DE MAGASCA

ATALAYÓN

ALDEA MORET

VIRGEN DE LA MONTAÑA

SIERRA DE FUENTES

ERMITA DE STA. LUCÍA

TORREORGAZ ERMITA DE STA. EULALIA

ERMITA

PLASENZUELA TORREQUEMADA

VALDESALOR EMBALSE DE VALDESALOR EMBALSE DEL GALLO

BOTIJA TORREMOCHA

ALDEA DEL CANO

LEGAL PROTECTION

Protected Natural Spaces Network with the denomination of Special Conservation Area (SCA), conserving the same limits as the SPAB. The plains of Trujillo and the “four places” area situated north of the area has sufficient ornithological value to be situated in the SPAB.

Livestock grazing on the plains

Los Llanos de Cรกceres y Sierra de Fuentes

Great Bustards

Herguijuela castle

Los Llanos de Cáceres y Sierra de Fuentes

SITUATION

access from Cáceres by any of the two roads that surround the sierra, the N-520 or the N-521.

An extensive area of plains with soft slopes that extend from Brozas to Trujillo, settled on the Cáceres plains and marked by the mountainous formations of Sierra de San Pedro, the natural closure of the plains. To the North, the Rivers Tajo and Almonte interject in the foothills of the sierra that gives rise to Gredos and Villuercas, giving rise to less abrupt land. Sierra de Fuentes is the main mountainous formation within the plain, like as a large island immersed in the pastures. In the centre of the plains can the Guadiloba reservoir can be found with its peculiar dragon-like form. The protected space includes the best areas for birds, largely limited by the banks of the Rivers Tamuja and Almonte. The area of the Special Conservation Area includes somewhat more than 70,000 ha belonging to the municipalities of Cáceres, Sierra de Fuentes, Torreogaz, Torrequemada and Aldea del Cano.

EQUIPMENT In a valley situated nearly at the summit of the Sierra de Fuentes, can be found the Fauna and Environmental Education Recovery Centre. “Los Hornos”. You arrive from the entry to the locality of Sierra de Fuentes from the N-521, taking the road that surrounds the locality and that climbs to the mountain summit. The Recovery centre houses the area’s management offices. The recovery centre “los hornos” may be visited by prior appointment with the technical personnel in charge, who offer a guided visit of the building and talks on the activities that are carried out. This is the main hospital for the region’s forest fauna and has more advanced facilities for this (treatment Roller

ACCESS The reference locality for any visit to this protected space is the city of Cáceres, that has goof communications both from Mérida and from Plasencia via the N-630 and from Badajoz via the N-521. Another possibility is entering from the South, taking the road on the N-360 towards Alcuescar and Montanchez and continuing towards Valdefuentes until completing the road popularly known as “of the towers”, that joins together Torremocha, Torreorgaz and Torrequemada. At the locality of Sierra de Fuentes, you can 85

Los Llanos de Cáceres y Sierra de Fuentes

White Stork

room, operating theatre, ITU, flight cages). It is planned to build an exhibition centre of the SCA Cáceres and Sierra de Fuentes plains just next to the Recovery centre.

communities. Grass, legumes and composites predominate. Thus, clovers, meadowgrass, cardillos, lesser quacking grass and sand poppy cover the fields. A large part of the cultivation is dedicated to cereal cultivation, especially wheat, oats, barley or a mix of all of them. Each year the seeds are rotated and the pastures are left to regenerate for a few years. These are known as "posíos", well used by the fauna both for feeding and for nesting. On the pastures, the main accompanying ligneous species are broom, yellow thomboid, cantueso and thyme. The banks of the Rivers Tamuja and Almonte have peculiar vegetation typical of very thermal areas which are noted for the presence of wild olive with holm oak, as well as aladierno, piruetano and hawthorn. In the seasonal streams whose banks dry out during the low water season, there are usually rushes on their banks. The declaration of the Cáceres plains as a SPAB was more than justified by the impressive concentration of birds existing in these open areas.

FLORA AND FAUNA The extensive grassland that now covers the soft undulations, were in their time covered by oak groves, which is the potential vegetation of the majority of the land of which there are only remains in the surrounding pastures on the high parts of the sierra, such as Sierra de Fuentes. The action of man over the centuries, looking to work the wood and burn the oak groves to obtain working pastures and land. From there originated the current pastures. Despite being vegetation coming from the degradation of original forests, it has now acquired a large conservation value and is considered one of the pesudosteppe areas of great global relevance. The permanent pastures, that are never worked and are dedicated to grazing have some very varied herbaceous plant 86

Los Llanos de CĂĄceres y Sierra de Fuentes

Black Stork in Valdesor

It currently has the greatest population of great bustards in Extremadura and possibly the greatest density on the Iberian peninsula. More than 2000 examples have been recorded. In the same way, the little bustard, Montagu harrier, lesser kestrel, little owl, black-bellied sandgrouse, stone curlew, calandra lark, ganga and bee eater are abundant. In the existing scarce trees sometime there settle colonies of cattle egrets, little egrets and white storks, such as in the Finca Arrogatos, one of the most curious due to its location in a corridor of trees. In winter, the crane occupies the areas that conserve pastures, where they mainly feed on acorns. In the Guadiloba and Valdesalor reservoir, the main areas with waters forming a pool in the SPAB, have some islands that are used by basketmakers, storks and charancitos to nest in colonies. Among the mammals, the great abundance of hare is noteworthy, a species that is generally hunted with greyhounds, on the road. Rabbits are only abundant in

areas with scrub forest and on the Tamuja riverbanks. The most representative invertebrate is the Mediterranean locust, that bursts out like a plague on occasions flattening and pastures but provides easy food to thousands of birds.

ITINERARIES VIA DE LA PLATA Route that follows the Roman road VĂa de la Plata nearly parallel to the N-630 and which crosses the SCA up to the locality of Aldea del Cano. It passes near to the castles of Herguijuelas, stone forts in the middle of the plains. From here and in the direction of the River Ayuela some of the best great bustard areas can be found.

Los Llanos de Cรกceres y Sierra de Fuentes

LOS RIBEROS Leaving from Casar de Cรกceres, from the Santiago hermitage follow the road towards San Benito hermitage, near to the banks of the River Almonte. From here, via the road that goes up the river, you arrive at the mouth of the Guadiloba. Recommended route for seeing water birds and birds of prey. It is possible to see black stork on the riverbanks, especially when there is little water.

cross the Almonte riverbanks just at the union with the River Tamuja, to return to Cรกceres. Another alternative route, turning towards the left before arriving at Santa Marta de Magasca, cross the pasture and cultivation areas to the North of the Guadiloba reservoir and we return to the N-523 to arrive again at Cรกceres. GUADILOBA RESERVOIR From the N-521 take the road that gives access to the dam. From there, continue on foot on the path that covers part of the perimeter of the reservoir. In spring, it is recommended not going near the nesting areas of colonial birds. In the immediate area can be found la Finca La Romanilla, property of the Extremadura Town Council, where conservation activities are carried out for the great bustards, little bustard and Montagu harrier.

SANTA MARTA DE MAGASCA MONROYCACERES Route to do by car due to the long journey, but it facilitates in just one day covering the most representatives habitats and observing numerous birds. Leaving from Cรกceres by the N521, take the crossroads to Santa Marta de Magasca and continue to the said locality, crossing the riverbanks of the River Tamuja. On this branch of road it is possible to see great bustards, little bustards, lapwings, white stork and cattle egrets. Leaving the protected area and continuing to Monroy, continue the route via the N-523 until you

SALOR RESERVOIR Form the N-360 arriving at Valdesar take the road that leads to Torreorgaz to the reservoir. Recommended route for seeing water birds, very abundant

Tench

Los Llanos de Cáceres y Sierra de Fuentes

Cáceres. The Cáceres capital also has excellent hotels, as does Casar de Cáceres.

especially in winter. Both the reservoir and surrounding land are characterised by the presence of granite outcrops with capricious forms due to erosive formations.

WHAT TO EAT The tench are famous in the majority of towns that conform to the SPAB where we may also taste Extremaduran stew and breadcrumbs, game dishes, cold meats and hams, fried pork, excellent goats cheeses where the well known Casar flan and sweets are noteworthy.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS Routes outside the signposted places should not be made to avoid disturbing the fauna. The majority of the buildings are dedicated to livestock and special attention must be paid to always leaving the gates closed to avoid animals escaping. Visit in springtime is recommended, especially when the great bustards become jealous and form the so-called “wheels” around the females, showing their nuptial plumage. The predomination of the plains and their soft undulations is makes it easy to cover the area on bicycle. This means of transport is recommended for the majority of the routes and is better than by car.

NEARBY PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST Cáceres, a heritage town, offers the visitor one of the most attractive historic artistic visits on the Iberian peninsula, with beautiful medieval villages magnificently conserved and very interesting museums. The nearby Trujillo and Mérida also afford us their rich cultural heritage that allows us to get to know the Roman Extremadura which is recognised internationally.

WHERE TO STAY In this areas we can stay in rural lodgings situated in Cáceres or in Monroy and Malpartida de Monumental City of Caceres

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

EMBALSE DE ORELLANA Y SIERRA DE PELA SAC

Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela

OBSERVATORIO PUERTO PEÑA

CASAS DE DON PEDRO

CAMPING

NAVALVILLAR DE PELA OBSERVATORIO PRIMILLAS

ACEDERA

LA CIMURGA

ORELLANA DE LA SIERRA

ORELLANA LA VIEJA

OBSERVATORIO

PEDRIZA VIEJA

TALARRUBIAS

ALSE

EMB

ANA

RELL

DE O

PEÑÓN DEL MORRÓN

PUEBLA DE ALCOCER

CASTILLO DE LA PUEBLA

ESPARRAGOSA DE LARES

LEGAL PROTECTION

SITUATION

In 1989, in the application of the Bird Directive (79/409/CEE), this area is classified as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPAB), attending to the European regulations of compulsory compliance. Subsequently, upon the promulgation of the Law 8/98 for the conservation of nature and natural spaces of Extremadura, it is included within the Network of Protected Natural Areas with the figure of Special Area for Conservation (SAC), conserving the same limits as the SPAB. The Reservoir of Orellana, completely included within the protected area, is the only wetland of Extremadura that belongs to the list of wetlands of international importance established by the Ramsar Convention, together with other areas such as Las Tablas de Damiel, Doñana or Delta del Ebro.

The Reservoir of Orellana is the largest of those situated in the middle stretch of the Guadiana River, being regulated further above by the River García de Sola and Cijara. The Sierra de Pela is an immense mountain range-island in the middle of a very varied terrain of fertile plains and prairies, where irrigated crops, cereal fields, pastures, meadows and scrubs alternate, being one of the enclaves of Extremadura with the greatest level of biodiversity. Towards the south,

Fishermen in the reservoir 91

Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela

Reservoir of Orellana

the vast pastures of La Serena enhance the jagged silhouette of the mountain range that emerges from the peneplain. The surface area is of 42,600 hectares, including the municipal districts of Orellana la Vieja, Orellana de la Sierra, Acedera, Navalvilla de Pela, Casas de Don Pedro, Talarrubas, Puebla de Alcocer, Esparragosa de Lares and Campanario.

and Casas de Don Pedro, situated on the border and from which part numerous routes that take us into the mountain range or towards the reservoir. From the east, it is possible to reach Orellana la Vieja taking an intersection situated between Valdivia and GargĂĄligas on the N-430. From the south the principal alternatives are La Coronada, Campanario and Castuera, from which part roads that come together at the Reservoir of Orellana, and which also offer landscape of great beauty, for crossing the extensive pastures of La Serena. From the west, the localities to be used as a reference by the traveller are Talarrubias and Puebla de Alcocer, especially if you travel from the region of La Serena or from CampiĂąa Sur.

ACCESS There exist numerous routes for accessing the different areas of interest, depending from where one is arriving. The principal road is the N-430, that joins Extremadura with Valencia through Ciudad Real, and which constitutes the northern border of the area. From the N-430, it is easy to take as a reference the localities of Navalvillar de Pela Puerto PeĂąa

Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela

Sierra de Pela

FACILITIES

are the remains of the Celtic hill forts, of which only relics remain.

There still does not exist an Interpretation Centre for the SAC Reservoir of Orellana and Sierra de Pela. Not withstanding, inside the Camping ground “Talarrubias” there is a centre that is currently being renovated, fruit of the collaboration of the Local Government of Talarrubias and the State Office for Agriculture and the Environment, where there exists a model of the grand rocky area of Puerto Peña, and information regarding the principal habitats.

FLORA AND FAUNA The Special Area for Conservation unites three very different ecosystems that are intimately related, which are: the mountain ranges, the meadows and the pastures of pseudo-steppe. The Sierra de Pela presents a dense vegetation along its hillside, mainly forests and Mediterranean scrubs, being the holm oaks and the cork oaks the dominant tree species, presenting in some areas dense vegetation accompanied with arbutus, laurustinus, lentiscus, kermes oak, phillrea angustifolia, spurge, rosemary, olive trees, rock rose, red and brusque heather, as well as

HISTORY On a historical level, the ruins of the Roman village of Lacimurga deserves special mention, situated on the bank of the reservoir, precisely in the area known as “Cogolludo”, where a large rocky tight spot narrows the river bed. The ruins correspond to a numerous group of homes that must have been the commercial centre of the rural constructions established throughout the length of the fertile plains of the Guadiana during that era. The prehistoric paintings existing in numerous shelters of the mountain range, on quartzite, are also significant, as

Castle of Puebla de Alcocer

Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela

rambling species like hydra or black byrony. In the sunnier parts it is common to see wild olive trees, as well as the kermes oak groves accompanied by white and rhamnnus alaternus asparagus plants. The lower parts of the hillside, where it is easier to transform the natural vegetation, is mainly occupied by olive trees, some of them of great beauty due to their age and robust appearance. Other areas are occupied by the reforestation of eucalyptus and pine trees. The meadows mainly occupy the eastern part of this area, between Navalvillar de Pela and Puerto Peña, alternating with terrain used for cereal crops. The meadows are principally of holm oaks, having spots of scrubs, especially on the borders and boundaries, with broom, lavender, sunrose, ivy, wild pear, haw, Moorish rock rose and irritable rockrose. In the rocky areas, especially in Puerto Peña, and in the summits of the Sierra de Pela, it is common to see juniper, some of great size. The reservoir lacks vegetation on its banks, in most areas, given that the fluctuations in the water level makes it impossible. Not withstanding, at the end, in the proximity of the dam of García de Sola, the river recovers

Black Stork

its natural aspect, and a dense vegetation of tamarisk, oleander, securinega, black poplar and willows surface, covering the sides and islands. In the southern half, on the other side of the reservoir, the forests almost completely disappear, and the pastures of cereal crops occupy all the surface area, just before La Serena commences. The pastures have a great diversity of grasses, especially in the dung created through the traditional sheepfold with the ovine and the principal woody elements are the broom and lavender. With regards to fauna, it would be necessary to highlight the elevated presence of black storks that, solely in Puerto Peña, 4 pairs nest. The ends of the reservoir are one of the world’s most important places for the

Fishing in the Reservoir

Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela

small surface area, in spring takes in large colonies of aquatic birds, highlighting the gullbilled tern, collared pratincole, small storks, little tern and kentish plover, being the object of special protection for being very vulnerable to human presence. In the natural pastures, it is possible to observe without any difficulty steppe species, like the great bustard, little bustard, pintailed sandgrouse, black-bellied sandgrouse or stone curlew. In the lands cultivated with cereal, especially in the proximity of Pueblo de Alcocer, there exist colonies of ash-coloured harriers. Other bird species that are common are the Bonelli’s eagle, tawny vulture, short-toed eagle, red kite, Egyptian vulture, lesser kestrel and black-winged kite.

Lesser Kestrel

species, with concentrations of more than 120 birds in the postnuptial migration. In the Reservoir, the most common species are the anatidae, having recorded the presence of more than 17,000 birds, principally mallard, gadwall, common teal, widgeon, shoveler and common pochard and crested pochard. Some years it is possible to see thousands of common cranes come here to sleep on the banks, coming from irrigated lands and surrounding meadows, especially during years of drought. The concentration of gulls is also spectacular, coexisting sleeping areas for the black-headed gull and the yellow-legged gull, which, jointly, surpass the figure of 20,000 birds. The central islands of the reservoir, some of them of a very

ITINERARIES CHANNEL OF LAS DEHESAS Total longitude: 15km. It is recommended that the route commence at Camping “Talarrubias”, close to Puerto Peña. An asphalted road leads us, following the channel of Las Dehesas along the length of the rear part of the reservoir, crossing the areas of the meadow that are better conserved, and allowing for views of the river, where it is Hill-walking through the area

Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela

possible to observe numerous species of birds with the help of telescopes or binoculars. Close to Casas de Don Pedro, in the boyar meadow, there exists a counter-dam that drives the water to form a pool in a small mountain pass, where it is common to see numerous species of anatidae, and even black storks.

broad strip of pastures that are bordered by the north by the reservoir of Orellana and to the south by the reservoirs of Zújar and La Serena. From the car, stopping at the entrances of the trails, it is possible to observe the steppe species that are typical of the area. VIEWPOINT OF PUERTO PEÑA Before reaching the Dam of García de Sola, on the N-430, you find this hidden viewpoint, precisely on the last curve. From here it is possible to contemplate one of the most spectacular rocks of Extremadura, where it is possible to observe more than 30 pairs of tawny vultures, Egyptian vultures, black stork, Spanish Imperial eagle, Bonelli’s eagle, peregrine falcon, chough and black-shouldered kite, all of them nesting together. With the help of binoculars, their observation is easy, being one of the most attractive sites of the protected areas.

BRIDGE OF COGOLLUDO Total longitude: 8-10 km. It is possible to access this precious enclave from the road that joins Orellana de la Sierra with Navalvillar de Pela, or from Puebla de Alcocer. Here we find the ruins of the roman village of Lacimurga. In the areas surrounding the bridge of Cogolludo it is possible to see black stork, Bonelli`s eagle, eagle owl, common hawk, Egyptian vulture and aquatic birds such as heron, black-headed gull and crested crebe. PASTURES AND CROPS OF LA SERENA Total longitude: 25km. Parting from Orellana la Vieja, take the bypass towards Puebla de Alcocer (EX103), crossing a

CONVENT OF SAN FRANCISCO On the outskirts of Puebla de Alcocer, next to the road, we

Orellana de la Sierra

Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela

meats, home-made pastry and excellent nougat and liquors.

find the ruins of an old convent, in which a large colony of falcons, one of the largest known, has installed itself. It is possible to observe these small falcons, as well as white storks, jackdaw and swift, that also nest in the building.

NEARBY PLACES OF INTEREST FOR TOURISTS The bordering SPAB’s of La Serena-Sierra de Tiros, Puerto Peña and Sierra de los Golondrinos, Sierra de Moraleja and Sierra de Siruela, with their majestic reservoirs, ideal for practising nautical sports and fishing.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS Navigating in the reservoir is limited in some areas from January 1st until July 31st, to protect the birds nesting on the islands, very sensitive to any kind of human presence. It is recommended that no other routes be undertaken, other than those suggested, especially in areas of the mountain range. It is necessary to avoid climbing on quartzite rocks, especially from February to June, period during which the most sensitive species (black stork, Bonelli’s eagle, Egyptian vulture, Spanish Imperial eagle) are nesting, given that it may lead to failure in the reproduction process. Camping is not permitted in Extremadura, existing a camping ground in Puerto Peña, with the capacity to take in a large number of campers.

Escarapuche Cheese from sheep

WHERE TO STAY Rural accommodation in Puebla de Alcocer and an Inn at Orellana la Viaje will be opening soon. A camping ground in Talarrubias. In various towns that form part of this SPAB, the visitor may find a broad offer of hotels.

WHAT TO EAT Cheese from sheep, lamb stew, roast lamb and kid, “escarapuche” of fish, cold 97

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

LA SERENA S PA B

La Serena

PUEBLA DE ALCOCER

VILLANUEVA DE LA SERENA

ESPARRAGOSA DE LARES

DON BENITO

POBLADO DEL ZÚJAR EMBALSE DE LA SERENA

MAGACELA CAMPANARIO

SANCTI SPIRITUS GARLITOS PEÑALSORDO

QUINTANA DE LA SERENA

ZARZACAPILLA

CASTUERA

CABEZA DEL BUEY HELECHAL

LEGAL PROTECTION

during centuries, where the main exploitation was and is sheep, concretely of the merino breed, perfectly adapted to the peculiar conditions of the land. On the southern limits, the

By virtue of the Bird Directive (79/409/CEE), this valuable area was classified in the year 2000 as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPAB), through Decree 232/2000, dated November 21st, through which new areas of special protection for birds in the Autonomous Community of Extremadura are classified. Likewise, the site is proposed as a Site of Community Importance (SCI), in compliance with the Habitats Directive (92/43/CEE) for its inclusion in the Natura Network 2000, including an excellent representation of the Mediterranean pastures, habitat that is a priority for the European Union.

Young Crane

SITUATION The SPAB of La Serena is located south of the high fertile plains of the Guadiana, below the rivers Zújar and Guadiana, occupying an extensive space where large areas of pastures and cereal crops have been maintained 99

La Serena

mountainous chain that commences in Castuera, and which continues until it leaves the province of Badajoz, forming an immense quartzitic arch, constitutes the closure of the SPAB. We are dealing with the SPAB of Extremadura with the largest surface area, with more than 144,000 hectares. Its boundaries include the municipal districts of Castuera, Campanario, La Coronada, Cabeza del Buey, Villanueva de la Serena, Don Benito, Talarrubias, Pueblo de Alcocer, Tamurejo, Siruela, Casas de Don Pedro, La Haba, Magacela, Sancti-Spiritus, Garlitos, Monterrubio de la Serena, Risco, Peñalsordo, Capilla, Quintana de la Serena, Zarzacapilla.

principal localities that are included within the SPAB, all of them situated on the periphery. From Campanario it is possible to access the western limits, principally areas of cereal crops and it is even possible to reach the terrain closest to the Zújar River, or cross the Gudalefra River, taking the road that leads to the Hermitage of Piedraescrita, in the heart of La Serena. From Castuerca it is possible to cross the area heading towards Orellana de la Sierra, taking the EX-103, or continue driving down the sunny area of the mountain range on the EX-104 until reaching Cabeza de Buey. Before reaching this locality, past the Almorchón Station, we can follow the road that leads to the Reservoir of La Serena, popularly known as the “carretera de Las Golondrinas” (road of Las Golondrinas), one of the best itineraries for observing steppe birds without any difficulty. Finally, from Cabeza del Buey, on the eastern end of the SPAB, it is possible to opt for a visit to the pastures following paths and cattle routes, or climbing through the paths that lie on the lower parts of the mountain range.

ACCESS The principal access route is the road EX-104, which communicates Villanueva de la Serena with Cabeza de Buey. On the journey, we will cross the Castle of Almorchón

FACILITIES At present it does not have a Centre for Interpretation, solely counting with thematic information panels in strategic places, where the principal routes and natural values of the SPAB are outlined.

FLORA AND FAUNA The region of La Serena is an area characterised because of the existence of peneplain terrain, 100

La Serena

and thyme. On occasions there appear some haws, wild pears and even dwarf oak associated to rocky outcrops. Popularly, the outcrops of slate are denominated â&#x20AC;&#x153;dog teethâ&#x20AC;?, for commonly being pointy and sharp. In the valleys there exist streams that pick up the water torrents of the rains and maintain a valuable vegetation of oleander and securinegas, being one of the best conserved in all of Extremadura. In some ravines there persist small forests of wild olive trees, visited frequently by some species for nesting. The hillsides of the Sierra de Tiros, Sierra de Castuera, La Rinconada and Torozo present a dense Mediterranean vegetation and are the testimony of what must of existed thousands of years ago in these pastures, that extend in front of the mountain ranges. The shaded area of the hillsides present a layer of trees dominated by the holm oaks, associated to the arbutus,

with soft and uneven raised areas, at altitudes between 300 and 500 metres. The ground is not very deep, existing frequent outcropping of slate. The favourable vegetation of the area is the holm oaks, which now count with a marginal representation due to the actions of man. Hence, the current vegetation is the result of the deforestation suffered during previous centuries, and accelerated due to diverse erosive processes, that have led to the permanence of a stable phase of high quality pastures and scrubs. It can be considered as the area of all the Iberian Peninsula and Western Europe where the natural formations of pastures reach their greatest extension and continuity. Said pastures are denominated pseudo-steppe or steppe created by man, where the herbaceous plants (grasses) and other species of an annual nature predominate. Amongst the scrubs, the most common are broom, yellow broom, lavender

Reservoir of La Serena

101

La Serena

Black Vulture

Bonelli’s eagle

laurustinus and rockrose. In the sunny areas a large part of the natural vegetation has been replaced by olive trees, but in the higher areas, less transformed, there still remain formations of wild olive trees, lentiscus, cork trees, gall-oaks and broom. In the quartzite ridges you find juniper, which in some cases end up forming authentic copse. The ecological peculiarities of the area have favoured the settlement of a bird life typical of open terrain, highlighting the presence of the great bustard (up to 800 individual birds), little bustard (more than 2,500 in spring), pin-tailed sandgrouse (more than 1,600), black bellied sandgrouse (more than 2,500), stone curlew and ash-coloured harriers (200 pairs). In the mountain range that forms the southern limits of the SPAB, it is necessary to highlight the shaded areas with a dense cover of vegetation, and the

presence of rocky cliffs, that offer the necessary security for the nesting of species such as black stork, Bonelli’s eagle, Spanish Imperial eagle, peregrine falcon, Egyptian vulture and black vultures. The majority of these species depend on the extensive pastures for food, hence the mountain range and the flatlands are intimately related. The streams that flow into the Zújar River are the refuge of fish species such as roach, boga, roach and spined loach, greatly in danger due to the effect of the reservoirs.

ITINERARIES PUERTO MEJORAL – STATION OF QUINTILLO From Puerto Mejoral, we will follow the Cañada Segoviana (Segovian Ravine), descending from the mountain range towards the pastures of La Serena. From here, a path leads towards the station of Quintillo, 102

La Serena

strong slopes at the beginning.

in ruins, but from where it is possible to enjoy an excellent panoramic view of the shaded area of the mountain range and of the rocky areas, where it is common to see the tawny vulture and other species.

CAMPANARIO – PIEDRAESCRITA – GUADALEFRA RIVER Parting from Campanario, follow the road that leads to the Hermitage of Piedraescrita, at the exit towards Villanueva de la Serena. From the first height it is possible to contemplate an excellent panoramic view of La Serena from one of its ends, appreciating its important extension and the alignment of all the mountain ranges by its borders. We descend crossing brooms, bulrush, thyme and pastures up to the Hermitage. Following the road you reach the bridge over the Guadalefra River, from where it is possible to take routes by foot along its banks, populated with spurge, rose bay and rush. We can continue the route through the same road until EX-103, which joins Castuera and Cabeza del Buey.

CASTUERA – HERMITAGE OF BELÉN The route, the recommendation is to do it by bicycle, commences in Castuera and follows all the shaded area of the Sierra de Tiros, on the boundaries of the pastures and crops of La Serena. From this path it is possible to see all the vegetation of the shaded and rocky areas. During the trip it is possible to observe steppe birds such as great bustards, little bustards, ashcoloured harriers, roller, lesser kestrel, ash-coloured harriers, calandra lark or grey wheatear. It is possible to return to Castuera by road, passing Helechal, La Nava and Benquerencia, although with

Cabeza del Buey

103

La Serena

Flat cakes of La Serena

CAMPANARIO – EL PAREDÓN

of the meadows, the mountain ranges and the pastures.

From the outskirts of Campanario parts a road that leads to the Railroad Station. From there, via a trail that rotates to the right, in the direction towards La Coronada, we will discover a pool situated on the sides of the trail tracks. An excellent place from where to observe aquatic birds, such as great cormorant, great crested crebe, little grebe and mallard.

LA CORONADA – HERMITAGE OF SANTA MARIA DEL ZÚJAR – CASTUERA Crossing through the interior of La Coronada until reaching the outskirts of the locality, from there parts a path, in good state, that crosses broad stretches of crops, pastures and broom until reaching the edges of the Zújar River, where we find the Hermitage of Santa María del Zújar. From this site it is possible to observe the vegetation of the banks of the Zújar, with its formations of willows and ash trees. Continuing down the road of the channel towards the right we arrive at the Dam of Zújar, with the possibility of observing numerous aquatic birds on the banks of the river, as well as areas of pasture with the typical “dogs teeth”. From the dam we can go to Castuera via the EX103, or shorten the route via the detour that we find to the right and which leads us to La Coronada.

CASTUERA – LAS GOLONDRINAS – CABEZA DEL BUEY Parting from Castuera, follow the EX-103 towards Puebla del Alcocer. Before reaching the Reservoir of Zújar, make a right turn at the first crossing, which leads us to the famous road of “Las Golondrinas”, very frequented by ornithologists and naturalists, due to the ease with which it is possible to observe the steppe birds, especially great bustard, little bustard, pin-tailed sandgrouse and black bellied sandgrouse. The road continues until reaching the Station of Almorchón, where we can go up to and visit the Arab castle constructed on the summit of an isolated mountain range, and which offers magnificent views

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS The presence of numerous species nesting in the rocky 104

La Serena

The nearby Talarrubias offers an important camping ground, and soon Orellana la Vieja will count with an Inn and a camping ground on the edge of the dam.

areas requires that we take extreme precautions so as to not disturb the birds, avoiding climbing these areas from February to June. In the event of undertaking routes on foot during summer through the pasture areas, it is necessary to take into account the high temperatures and the almost complete absence of shaded areas. The period during which the great bustards are mating, between April and May, is spectacular, with the possibility of seeing the males spreading their tails exhibiting their nuptial feathers, very showy, standing out as large white stains in the middle of the pastures. In the event that you observe mating groups, it is not advisable to approach same so as to avoid disturbing them. The Castle of Almorch贸n, which is reached via a track, offers unsurpassable panoramic views. In winter, it is possible to see from this observation point the passing of the cranes from the meadows towards the sleeping areas on the other side of the mountain ranges, being one of the few places where the cranes fly below the level of the observer. In Puerto Mejoral there exists an observatory that allows us to see the passage of the cranes towards the sleeping areas.

WHAT TO EAT Lamb characteristic of the area, fish escarapuche, dishes of game, asparagus and potato, gazpacho (cold soup), cheeses, and Tortas de la Serena (flat cakes), nougats, liquors, Pitarra wines and home made sweets.

NEARBY PLACES OF INTEREST FOR TOURISTS This area allows us to discover interesting historical landmarks distributed throughout the lands that this important SPAB of Extremadura occupies, and thus we can visit the pre-Roman site of Cancho Roano de Zalamea de la Serena, that also counts with a beautiful Roman style, the Arab or medieval castles of Almorch贸n, Benquerencia, Magacela and Puebla de Alcocer. Historical religious buildings are the Hermitage of Ntra. De Bel茅n de Cabeza del Buey, or the parish churches of this same locality and those of Pe帽alsordo, Castuera and Orellana la Vieja. Castuera

WHERE TO STAY To use rural accommodation in this area we can go to the localities of Magacela, and also to Castuera, Puebla de Alcocer and Cabeza del Buey, that also have available an interesting offer of hotels, to which we must add the town of Benquerencia de la Serena. 105

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

DEHESAS

EXTREMADURA

S PA B

JEREZ

Dehesas de Jerez

CHELES

ALCONCHEL

BARCARROTA

HIGUERA DE VARGAS VILLANUEVA DEL FRESNO

ZAHÍNOS

JEREZ DE LOS CABALLEROS OLIVA DE LA FRONTERA

LEGAL PROTECTION

which is, without a doubt, the meadowed area of greatest continuance of all those existing in the Iberian Peninsula. Thus, to the south of the imaginary line that joins Cheles with Alconchel and Barcarrota, we find a continuos carpet of meadows that is limited with Portugal until reaching the borders of the provinces of Huelva and Seville, occupying

By virtue of the Bird Directive (79/409/CEE), this area was classified in the year 2000 as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPAB), through Decree 232/2000, dated November 21st, through which new areas of special protection for birds in the Autonomous Community of Extremadura are classified. Likewise, the site is proposed as a Site of Community Importance (SCI), in compliance with the Habitats Directive (92/43/CEE), to form part of the Natura Network 2000.

Coal Merchants

SITUATION The SPAB “Dehesas de Jerez” is constituted by a vast surface area of meadows of holm oaks and cork oaks, situated to the west of the province of Badajoz and bordering with Portugal, with clear influences of the foothills from the Sierra Morena. The meadows included within the SPAB are only but a sample of an even greater formation 107

Dehesas de Jerez

Dehesa

From there, via the EX-112, we can reach the localities of the southern limits of the SPAB, Zahinos and Jerez de los Caballeros. The other possibility from Badajoz is to take the N432 (Badajoz-Seville) in the direction of Zafra, to divert us when passing La Albuera to the N-435 (Badajoz-Huelva), in the direction of Jerez de la Frontera, passing by Barcarrota and Valle de Matamoros. From MĂŠrida, via the N-630 we reach Zafra, and taking the EX101 and EX-112 subsequently, we will cross an extensive area of meadows from Alconera, Burguillos del Cerro and Valuengo, to finally reach Jerez de los Caballeros.

Azure-winged magpie

an extensive fringe that covers all the southeast end of the province of Badajoz, until the region of TentudĂa. The SPAB has a surface area of 48,000 hectares, in which are included terrain from the municipal districts of Jerez de los Caballeros, Villanueva de Fresno, Zahinos, Higuera de Vargas, Valle de Matamoros, Valle de Santa Ana and Oliva de la Frontera.

FACILITIES Due to its recent designation, it still does not have environmental facilities. It is anticipated that it will have a system of signs of the principal routes as well as the installation in strategic places of thematic information panels regarding the natural values of the SPAB.

ACCESS From Badajoz, there are two possible routes. Firstly, taking the road headed towards Olivenza (EX-107), that we will follow towards the south passing by Alconchel until we reach Villanueva de Fresno. 108

Dehesas de Jerez

Shrike Iberian Pigs

summits of certain serrezuelas. Thus, common species of the area are the kermes oak, myrtle, lentiscus, white rockrose, sunrose yellow broom. Without a doubt, the most representative species of the meadows is the black stork, which counts in this area with at least 30 pairs, being the most important area in Western Europe for the species during the reproductive period. Contrary to other areas of Extremadura, here most of the nests are located in trees (generally cork oaks). In spring it is frequent to observe this species, classified as an endangered species, flying over the meadows or feeding in ponds and riversides. Other typical birds of the mixed meadows are the great spotted woodpecker, green woodpecker, redstart, mistle thrush, common blackbird, orphean warbler, grey flycatcher, long-tailed tit, blue treecreeper, short-toed treecreeper, azure-winged magpie, black chub mackard, rock sparrow, chaffinch, hawfinch y greenfinch, amongst others.

FLORA AND FAUNA The SPAB â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dehesas de Jerezâ&#x20AC;? includes, within more than 60% of its territory, continuous formations of holm oak and cork tree meadows, with an excellent level of conservation. The economic importance of cork in the region, as well as the destination of the meadows to the exploitation of livestock, principally with Iberian pigs, has allowed throughout centuries the continuity of this forest of quercineas, clear example of sustainable development and rational use of the natural resources. The main part of the livestock meadows present a small coverage of scrubs, being these more abundant in the scarce areas with slope and the 109

Dehesas de Jerez

VILLANUEVA DEL FRESNORESERVOIR OF CUNCOS

In the far northeastern area of the SPAB, coinciding with the lands that extend towards the border with Portugal from Villanueva de Fresno, we find the principal area with natural pastures and crops, surrounded by meadows that are more open. Here it is possible to observe a notable representation of steppe birds, like the great bustard, little bustard, pin-tailed sandgrouse, black bellied sandgrouse, stone curlew, calandra lark, lark, mountain wood lark, common pipit, golden plover, ash-coloured harrier and black-winged kite. The Reservoir of Cuncos, situated in the centre of this open area brings together numerous aquatic birds, such as mallard, gadwall, widgeon, shoveler, common pochard, crested pochard, common goose, common coot, great crested crebe, little grepe, heron, egret, black-headed gull, lesser blackbacked gull, etc. In the winter, the reservoir is used as a sleeping point for the common crane, gathering up to 2,000 individual birds.

Following the EX-107 that joins Villanueva del Fresno with Portugal (Mour茫o), we cover the meadows closest to the locality, delimited with the typical stone fencing. Before reaching those buildings on the border, we will take a path towards the reservoir of Cuncos, in a trajectory where it is possible to see numerous steppe birds if we make stops at strategic points. In the reservoir there exist various observatories for birds, installed within traditional huts. Another alternative on this route is to take the path that surrounds the meadows close to Villanueva del Fresno, right where the trees end and which leads us through the edge between the meadow and the pastures, to come out on the road that joins Villanueva del Fresno and Cheles. RIVER ALCARRACHE On the road between Higuera de Iberian Ham

ITINERARIES JEREZ DE LOS CABALLEROSZAHINOS-HIGUERA DE VARGAS A comfortable route to be undertaken by car. Parting from Jerez, we will take the road that leads to Zahinos, crossingthe principal meadowed areas, in the heart of the SPAB. From Zahinos, crossing the Sierra de Encinares and the Sierra del Pend贸n, we find excellent panoramic views. From Higuera de Vargas, leaving the mountain ranges of Sarzoso and Fallo to the left, we return towards Jerez. 110

Dehesas de Jerez

standing out as large white stains in the middle of the pastures. In the event that you observe mating groups, it is not advisable to approach same so as to avoid disturbing them. Due to the absence of steep slopes, it is advisable to cover the programmed areas on bicycle, especially in the flat areas of Villanueva del Fresno and Cheles.

Vargas and Alconchel we cross the Ecological and Biodiversity Corridor “Rio Alcarrache”, being able to navigate said river both upstream as well as downstream.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS The fact that the meadows are used for the livestock means that it is necessary to be very careful with the gates and barriers, always leaving them closed when passing through. Precaution in the enclosed areas with the pigs. To avoid the transmission of diseases, it is recommended that you do not enter private farms, limiting our routes to the marked itineraries and roads. The period during which the great bustards are mating, between April and May, is spectacular, with the possibility of seeing the males spreading their tails exhibiting their nuptial feathers, very showy,

WHERE TO STAY In this area we can find rural accommodation on the outskirts of Jerez de los Caballeros, or in the locality of Salvatierra de los Barros, not forgetting the hotel establishments in this area, of a renowned prestige, in the towns of Barcarrota, Fregenal de la Sierra and Jerez de los Caballeros.

WHAT TO EAT This is the kingdom of the ham and cold meats of the Iberian pig; we can also sample dishes and plates of game, lamb and kid stews, fried bread crumbs of Extremadura, mixed asparagus and mushrooms, samples of pork, cheap stew, boga brine and gazpacho.

Jerez de los Caballeros

NEARBY PLACES OF INTEREST FOR TOURISTS In these Dehesas de Jerez the visitor can discover prehistoric dolmens, for example the dolmen of Toriñuelo close to Jerez, the majestic baroque towers of the churches of Jerez de los Caballeros. Other military, civil or religious buildings can be found in this locality and in the nearby Barcarrota, Alconchel, Oliva de la Frontera, Fregenal de la Sierra or Villanueva del Fresno. 111

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PUERTO PEÑA SIERRA DE LOS GOLONDRINOS S PA B

Puerto Peña - Sierra de Los Golondrinos

LEGAL PROTECTION

Deer

SITUATION The SPAB is situated in the northeast quadrant of the province of Badajoz, in the region of Los Montes, bordered in the north by Villuercas, to the west by the Vegas Altas de Guadiana, and to the south by the other large reservoirs of Guadiana and Zújar. The central core of the SPAB is constituted by the Reservoir of García de 113

Puerto Peña - Sierra de Los Golondrinos

La Siberia

ACCESS

Sola, in its central and end section, extending itself from the strait formed by the Sierra de los Golondrinos and Sierra de Valdecaballeros until the dam at Cijara, that is the one situated highest up at the head of the Guadiana River in its crossing of Extremadura. The natural pathway of the Guadalupejo River is also within its limits, river that begins to flow in Las Villuercas and which links both natural spaces. The hillsides of the Sierra de los Golondrinos and the extensive areas of meadows and pastures that border the reservoir are also included within the protected area. The SPAB has a surface area of 33,000 hectares, and includes land from the municipal districts of Valdecaballeros, Castilloblanco and Herrera del Duque.

The easiest route is from the N430 (Mérida-Ciudad Real), passing through the localities of Navalvillar de Pela and Casas de Don Pedro, until reaching the dam of the Reservoir of García de Sola, in the area known as “Puerto Peña”. Before crossing the dam we have two choices. Without crossing the dam, a bypass leads us to Valdecaballeros, this covering the limits of the SPAB until reaching Castilblanco, in the far north. If we choose the other alternative, crossing the dam, we will follow the N-430 until reaching Herrera del Duque, passing by Peloche, small town situated on the banks of the reservoir. From Herrera another road leads us to Castilblanco, encircling the SPAB from the east. 114

Puerto Peña - Sierra de Los Golondrinos

Island in the Reservoir

FLORA AND FAUNA

scrubs, like arbutus, wild olive trees, laurustinus, lentiscus, brooms, hawthorn, wild pear, wild rose, olives, kermes oak, ivy, phillrea angustifolia or greasy rock rose. The lianas like the ivy, sarsaparilla, honeysuckle or byrony are frequent. In the sunshine areas, the olive groves have replaced to the natural vegetation that has been

The SPAB “García de Sola-Los Golondrinos” is geographically embedded in a junction of a high ecological value, to which contributes the proximity of the southern spurs of Villuercas, the plains surrounded by quartzite crests that extend throughout the length and width of La Siberia and La Serena, the rañas that from the north penetrate into the territory, and the presence of the big reservoirs of the basin of the Guadiana. The most representative habitats are the Mediterranean forest, the meadows, the pastures and the riverbanks of the water flows. The hillsides of the Sierra de los Golondrinos conserve an excellent representation of Mediterranean forest and scrub. The dominant arboreal species are the holm oaks, but in some areas they mixed with cork oaks and gall oaks. The lower layer presents an enormous quantity of arboreal species and of

Robin

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Puerto Pe単a - Sierra de Los Golondrinos

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Puerto PeĂąa - Sierra de Los Golondrinos

ends and corners. In the rocky areas of the mountain ranges nest black stork (4 pairs), Egyptian vultures (10 pairs), tawny vulture, Spanish Imperial eagle, Bonelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eagle, peregrine falcon, eagle owl and chough. The holm oak groves and cork oak groves of the hillsides give refuge to predators like the sparrow hawk, regal kite, black kite, buzzard, booted eagle and short-toed eagle. The Mediterranean forest and scrub presents a varied community of birds, a true concert in spring when it is possible to listen to dozens of songs simultaneously. Common species are the common nightingale, wren, black headed roller, subalpine warbler, robin, common grackle, cirl bunting, greenfinch, vulgar chaffinch, oriole, green pick and grey flycatcher.

relegated to the summits and the borders and alleys of the olive grove lands. The holm oak meadows extend into the slopes of the mountains in their journey towards the valley of the Guadiana, losing density progressively until becoming pastures. In the meadows, the broom of balls is the most common species, especially in the areas of sheep shepherding, as well as spurge, lavender, frizzy rock rose and Moorish rockrose. In the fluvial courses the alder groves, willow groves and ash groves stand out, especially in the River Guadalupe. Other seasonal courses of water show in their banks securinega, oleander and rushes. The banks of the reservoir are lacking arboreal vegetation due to the changes in the water level, maintaining solely pastures, especially in the Great Cormorants

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Puerto Pe単a - Sierra de Los Golondrinos

Black-shouldered Kite

In the clearer meadows, and with short scrubs, it is common to see the mountain woodlark, woodlark, calandra lark, blonde wheatear, common stonechat, shrike real common owl, hoopoe and old crock. In the pastures it is possible to also see stone curlew, pin-tailed sandgrouse, black-bellied sandgrouse and little bustard. The reservoir takes in numerous over-wintering

species, as common loach, little grepe, great crested crebe wild duck, mallard, log-tailed mallard, shoveler, common teal, widgeon, heron, egret, black-headed gull, lesser black-backed gull, great cormorant and plover, amongst others. In the Guadalupejo River, the reservoirs and the gravel pits associated to the Nuclear Power Station of Valdecaballeros, that 118

Puerto Peña - Sierra de Los Golondrinos

ITINERARIES

was never put into operation, are now an extraordinary habitat for some birds, like in the case of the black stork or the common crane, the latter using this terrain as a sleeping area, with more than 1,000 birds. In the mountains it is common to see badgers, mountain cat, genet, marten and mongoose, also being a potential area for the distribution of the Iberian lynx. In the reservoir, of great importance for the fisheries activities, as well as in the streams that pour into it, we can find species like catfish barbel, boga, yokel and spined loach. Indigenous species like the black-bass, pike and bass compete with the former. Importance of small game hunting, especially thrush (in winter), rabbit and hare, but there also exists organised hunts in the mountain patches for deer and boars.

SIERRA DE PELOCHE From this locality, following the road in the direction of Herrera del Duque, we reach a drinkingtrough for livestock, from where parts a path that gradually narrows as it ascends along the hillside of the mountain range. Quite adequate for discovering the Mediterranean vegetation up close, and for the observation of small birds. PUERTO PEÑA - PELOCHE Following this road and making various stops, we will have the possibility of enjoying panoramic views of the reservoir and the mountain range. If we give special attention to the rocky areas, it will be possible to see black storks, tawny vultures, Bonelli’s eagle or Egyptian vultures flying over the ledges. From the peninsula of La Barca, half way, it is worth stopping to see the reservoir and the Sierra de Barbas de Oro, on the opposite bank. Rabbit

White Stork

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Puerto Peña - Sierra de Los Golondrinos

HERRERA DE DUQUE CASTILBLANCO

routes be undertaken, other than those suggested, especially in areas of the mountain range. It is necessary to avoid climbing on quartzite rocks, especially from February to June, period during which the most sensitive species (black stork, Bonelli’s eagle, Egyptian vulture, Spanish Imperial eagle) are nesting, given that it may lead to failure in the reproduction process. In winter, with the aid of binoculars or a telescope, it is possible to identify numerous species of aquatic birds.

The route may be commenced ascending towards the castle of Herrera, where we can enjoy a dominant view of the terrain. On the road to Castilblanco we find on the trajectory broom, pastures and meadows of holm oaks, as well as birds that are characteristic of open spaces. We can continue the route from Castilblanco to Alía by following the course of the Guadalupejo River or by entering into the holm oak meadows that fall towards the valley.

WHERE TO STAY

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS

Fuenlabrada de los Montes and Herrera del Duque have rural accommodation; the latter locality together with Valdecaballeros also offers us interesting hotel establishments. The nearby Talarrubias possesses an accredited camping ground out in the open.

Navigating in the reservoir is not limited, but from January 1st until July 31st special care must be taken not to disturb the birds that are nesting on the banks or small islands. It is recommended that no other Fish moje

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Puerto Peña - Sierra de Los Golondrinos

NEARBY PLACES OF INTEREST FOR TOURISTS To the already beautiful area constituted by the reservoir of García Sola situated in this SPAB, next to the mountain range that forms same, the visitor may thoroughly discover the historical artistic attractions of localities like Valdecaballeros, with its Health Resort of Valdefernando, or its Mudejar church, the castle or the church of San Juan Bautista de Herrera del Duque, the cave paintings of Peloche, the Natural Reserve of Robledillo in Fuenlabrada de los Montes, or the Mudejar church of Castilblanco. Nearby we can visit the Royal Monastery of Guadalupe, declared Mankind Heritage, or tour in Helechosa de los Montes through the historical Regional Game Reserve of Cíjara.

Rock Rose

WHAT TO EAT These areas are famous for fish “mojes” and “escarapuche” (local dishes), as well as dishes of game, not forgetting stews and fried bread crumbs from Extremadura, the food wines, the honey and the home made sweets.

Bathers in Garcia Sola

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SIERRA

EXTREMADURA

VILLUERCAS S PA B

E IBORES

Sierra de Villuercas e Ibores

BOHONAL DE IBOR

PERALEDA DE SAN ROMÁN FRESNEDOSO DE IBOR O RÍ GU

CASTAÑAR DE IBOR

A IJ

NAVATRASIERRA

NAVALVILLAR DE IBOR

ROBLEDOLLANO SIE

RÍ

AD RR

GU UE NQ

CA ER

VIL

AR AD

NAVEZUELAS

GUADALUPE

ALÍA

LEGAL PROTECTION

PUERTO DEL REY

(SCI), in compliance with the Habitats Directive (92/43/CEE), to form part of the Natura Network 2000.

SITUATION The region of Villuercas and Ibores is situated in the southeastern part of the province of Caceres, bordered in the south by the province of Badajoz and in the east by Toledo. The SPAB is surrounded by extensive flat

Views of Las Villuercas

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Las Villuercas

areas or soft mountainous areas, such as the fertile plain of the Tiétar River in Campo Arañuelo to the north, the flatlands of Trujillo in the west or the high fertile plains of the Guadiana in the south, all of them with great environmental and scenic value, giving rise to one of the areas of Extremadura with the greatest biodiversity. The transversal disposition of the mountain range, oriented towards the northeast and southwest, means that the rivers that sprout up in these valleys flow both into the basin of the

Tagus as well as into the basin of the Guadiana. Thus, those which are tributary of the Tagus are the rivers Ibor, Viejas, Almonte and Gualija, and to the Guadiana, the rivers Ruecas, Gargáligas, Guadarranque and Guadalupejo. The SPAB has a surface area of 76,251 hectares, that includes the municipal districts of Alía, Berzocana, Cabañas del Castillo, Cañamero, Castañar de Ibor, Navalvillar de Ibor, Navezuelas, Robledollano, Guadalupe, Villar del Pedroso, Carrascalejo, Garvin de la Jara,

Guadalupe

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Ruins of Augustobriga

around Navalmoral de la Mata, fully introducing ourselves into the region. Once we pass Castañar de Ibor and Navalvillar de Ibor we can continue towards Guadalupe, from where other roads take us into Villuercas. Also from E-90, in Miajadas, following the bypass towards Logrosán via the EX-102, we reach Cañamero and from there Guadalupe. If we travel down the N-430 (Mérida-Ciudad Real), from between the localities of Acedera and Obando parts the EX-116 in the direction of Guadalupe,

Peraleda de San Román and Valdelacasa del Tajo.

ACCESS Given the large surface area covered by this SPAB, there exist three possible access routes. Guadalupe is the best reference for going to any place, given that its central location within the region allows for an easy connection with the remaining roads. From the freeway E-90 (MadridLisbon) we can enter Los Ibores taking the bypass towards Guadalupe via the EX-118

Berzocana

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HISTORY

progressing through extensive meadowed areas and ascending softly until reaching Puerto Llano, a crossing where we can opt between continuing towards Guadalupe or diverting towards Cañamero, that gives way to the valleys situated further to the west.

There exists numerous cave paintings in the rocky areas and shelters of quartzite of the mountain ranges, principally schematic paintings that were left as testimony by the first settlers. The Celts built various hill-forts in the area, like the Cerro de San Cristóbal in Cañamero, being famous the jewellery of that age found in Berzocana, of great historical value. The stretch of walls of Villuercas were a refuge of the pre-Roman towns that defended themselves within these recondite valleys from the Roman domination. Hence, the principal Roman remains are found in the peripherals of the region, the columns and arches existing on the banks of the Reservoir of Valdecañas, where the village of Augustobriga was inundated. From the period relative to the

FACILITIES There are currently no environmental facilities in the SPAB. It is possible to visit the Tree Nursery of Cañamero, under the direction of the State Office for the Environment, where numerous indigenous species are cultivated, to be used for reforestation. Along a small guided route there exists thematic panelling that offers information regarding the different species of trees and scrubs that are cultivated. Las Villuercas

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Salamander

Deer

mountainous chains, being the maximum peak that of the Summit of Villuercas, with an altitude of 1,600 metres. This fact favours the existence of vegetable formations characteristic of MesoMediterranean terrain, the most extended in Extremadura, but enriched at greater altitudes due to the existence of typical mountain flora, adapted to the cold and even to the snow. In the greater part of the territory the holm oak groves prevail, while the cork tree groves, very common in the area, occupy the best terrain in the shaded areas. As from an altitude of 600 metres, and until the level 1,200 metres, the “melojo” oak substitutes holm, oaks and cork oaks, forming continuous forests with great botanical interest. In some valleys, the oak tree groves attain an importance presence, receiving similar treatment as the

Arab domination, there remain buildings of great beauty and interest, like the castle of Cabañas del Castillo or the village of Solana de Cabañas, in an excellent state of conservation.

FLORA AND FAUNA Few places like Las Villuercas e Ibores conserve a vegetation that is as diverse as that found in this combination of parallel mountain ranges and valleys, that constitute an immense refuge for the Mediterranean forest, as well as for those species left behind billeted here from periods when the prevailing climatic conditions were different. There exist notable altitude differences within the SPAB, which reaches its lowest levels in the northern and southern areas (400 metres in Bohonal of Ibor and between 500 and 600 in the axis Combine-Puerto Rey) and it ascends abruptly in the 127

Sierra de Villuercas e Ibores

Las Villuercas

meadows, giving place to a landscape of exceptional beauty. The highest groves usually present great density of trees, being forests of high and thin trees whose grasses are mainly taken advantage of by flocks of goats. Other arboreal species are also common, as are gall oaks, maple of Montpellier, mostajo (sorbus aria L.), hack berry hazel tree and juniper. The chestnut groves introduced by man contributes to a notable colourful landscape during the autumn, existing samples of great presence. The pastures created in the chestnut groves are an excellent place from which

to observe different species of orchids. Among the arboreal species that should be highlighted, we must point out the arbutus and lentiscus, very well represented in the whole area. Other represented species are red heather, white heather, ling, male rockrose, carpazo (C.psilosepalus), laurustinus, yellow broom, laburnum, hawthorn, phillrea angustifolia, elder and wild rose. In the rivers that are born in the narrow valleys, we must highlight the presence of a peculiar tree, the Prunus lusitanis), species characteristic of the forests of the 128

Sierra de Villuercas e Ibores

Typical gorge of the region

and peregrine falcon, nesting all them in the security of the quartzite rocky areas. There also exists a colony of black vultures in the northern limits of the SPAB. The forest birds, both in the meadow as well as in the forests, are remarkably represented here, being one of the sites with the greatest wealth of spices. We must highlight the nesting population, like the common nightingale, robin, Bonelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s warbler, blackcap, blue climber, short-toed treecreeper, crested tit, coal tit, striped cardinalfish, smaller pick, wryneck, oriole or hawfinch highlight. Among the

Tertiary Era and which find in Villuercas one of the best havens, existing loreras (Prunus Lusitanica) that are very well conserved, true botanical jewels. Most of the riversides present dense alder groves, as well as willows and ash-trees. In some gorges there are also holy trees. As for the fauna, the populations of birds stands out, one of the main reasons why this area was declared an SPAB, in consonance with the excellent conservation of their habitats. Thus, we must highlight the black stork (more than 5 pairs), Egyptian vulture, tawny vulture, Imperial eagle, Bonelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eagle (at least 15 pairs) 129

Sierra de Villuercas e Ibores

Eagle Owl

predators, we must highlight the abundance of honey buzzard, sparrow hawk, goshawk, small owl, tawny owl and eagle owl. In the gorges it is possible to see aquatic grackle, white wagtail, grey-headed wagtail and kingfisher. In the rocky areas it is common to see black wheatear, solitary rocker, redstart, chough and regal swift. In the patches of shady mountains the roebuck finds refuge, being spectacular the howling when in rut. The deer and wild boar are also abundant, generating important profits the organisation of hunting and battue excursions Other mammals like the wild cat, genet, marten, badger and otter are also present. Amongst the reptiles, the scant green and black lizard can be seen on the banks of the rivers

and in gorges. Frequent visitors are also the salamander, the Iberian newt and the leprous tortoise. In the rivers there are plenty of roach, boga, barbel, chub and trout.

ITINERARIES BOHONAL DE IBOR GUADALUPE Total longitude: 70km. It must be undertaken in a car. From Bohonal and continuing through Casta単ar and Navalvillar de Ibor towards Guadalupe, you discover highland terrain of great beauty. You cross areas of olive groves, alder groves, holm oak groves, cork tree groves, gall-oak groves, chestnut groves and some reforestation of pine groves. Before reaching Guadalupe, there is an observation point from where the Monastery and the

Boletos

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Black Stork

stroll down its streets, with architecture that is typical of this region.

rural agricultural of this locality can be seen. Close to the observation point we find the Hermitage of Humilladero, stopping point and prayer area for pilgrims before arriving in Guadalupe. It is advisable to ascend to Pico Villuercas (1600 metres) via the asphalted road that leads to the old military base, from where it is possible to contemplate the impressive terrain and from where an extensive area is dominated. The ascension towards the summit allows for further panoramic views of the different valleys (valley of Viejas and Valle del Ibor), as well as the old Pozo de las Nieves, where the snow was conserved during the whole year to be used by the population. At the end of the route, in Guadalupe, it is obligatory to visit the Monastery, as well as to

CAÑAMERO - CABAÑAS DEL CASTILLO BERZOCANA Total longitude: 30km. To be undertaken in a car. Following the road that goes from Cañamero to Deleitosa, we will continue along the hillsides of the mountain ranges of Madrila, Berzocana, Castillejo and Alcornocal, until reaching Cabañas del Castillo. The observation point at the entrance of the town offers an exceptional panoramic view of the meadows that extend before it. From here it is possible to ascend to the Arab castle, taking a pleasant stroll around the valley of the Garganta de Santa Lucia. From Cabañas we will continue the route towards Roturas and A bee drinking

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CABAÑAS DEL CASTILLO MOLINO DEL RISQUILLO

Navezuelas, crossing a broad valley and subsequently to Berzocana.

From Cabañas parts another path, on the outskirts of the town, that descends in the direction of the Garganta de Santa Lucia, crossing holm oak groves, cork tree groves and areas of rough scrubs. A beautiful stone bridge crosses the gorge amongst alder groves and a narrow track leads towards the mill, situated in a privileged corner of the mountain range, close to an encased rocky area called “La Apretura”.

CAÑAMERO - GUADALUPE Route that is marked throughout all its trajectory, to be undertaken on foot, and which commences in Cañamero and follows the course of the Ruecas River until bordering the dam of Cancho del Fresno. Afterwards it continues upwards, crossing the famous stones known as “melonar de los Frailes” (melon plot of the monks), until reaching Castaño de Abuelo and, from there, amongst chestnut groves, until Guadalupe.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS Any time of the year is adequate for visiting the SPAB “Sierra de Villuercas e Ibores”, being especially recommended during the spring and autumn. The entry from Navalmoral de la Mata crossing the Ibores during November-December is spectacular, showing a great variety of colours due to the presence of numerous deciduous trees.

NAVEZUELAS - GUADALUPE The route commences in Navezuelas and it ascends towards Sierra de Villuercas, subsequently descending towards the valley of the Viejas River. Very interesting area for discovering close up the vegetation of the cork tree, oak tree and forest-corridor of alder trees. Monastic Cod

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Sierra de Villuercas e Ibores

not forget to order the blood sausages of cabbage and pumpkin, mushrooms and cheeses from Los Ibores, wines from the area, sweets and honey. Guadalupe is known for centuries for its varied and rich monastic cuisine.

For all those that approach Villuercas, a visit to Guadalupe is obligatory. It is the heat of the region and place where it is possible to undertake numerous tourist activities. The importance of some species of flora, rare and endangered, means that it is recommendable that plants not be collected from the countryside. During the spring it is recommended that you do not climb the rocky areas, due to the presence of numerous birds that are nesting. Scaling requires prior authorisation.

NEARBY PLACES OF INTEREST FOR TOURISTS Without a doubt, it is obligatory that the tourist visit the Royal Monastery of Guadalupe, declared Mankind Heritage, authentic museum of museums, and beautiful example of Mudejar gothic art. We can find and visit around the area cave paintings in Berzocana, Mudejar art in Alía or Bohonal de Ibor; next to the reservoir of Valdecañas there is a sample of what was the Roman city of Augustobriga. In Castañar de Ibor it will soon be possible to visit its cave, formed by stalactite and stalagmite, and in Berzocana we find the relics of San Fulgencio, in the historical parish church.

WHERE TO STAY If we wish to stay in rural establishments, we can do so in Cabañas del Castillo, Fresnedoso de Ibor and Alía, to which we add Cañamero, Logrosán and Guadalupe, which have an interesting hotel offering.

WHAT TO EAT These lands are famous for its magnificent dishes of game, its roast stews of lamb and kid. Do

Monastery of Guadalupe

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EXTREMADURA

CEDILLO - TAJO INTERNACIONAL S PA B

Cedillo - Tajo Internacional

ESPAÑA HERRERA DE ALCÁNTARA

CEDILLO

ALCÁNTARA RÍO TAJO

SANTIAGO DE ALCÁNTARA CARBAJO RÍO SALOR SIERRA DE SAN PEDRO

PORTUGAL

MEMBRÍO

RÍO ALBURREL

RÍO SEVER

SALORINO

VALENCIA DE ALCÁNTARA

LEGAL PROTECTION

boundaries are broadened and extend broadly through the meadows and slopes that flow into the Sever, and occupying the totality of the municipal district of Cedillo. The SPAB establishes a continuity with the protected areas of Portugal, where the Tagus River has the category of Natural Park. In Extremadura, this SPAB practically limits with the SAC “Sierra de San Pedro”, as well as with the Sites of Community Importance (SCI) “Tio Erjas”, “Llanos de Brozas”, “Rivera de Aurela” and “Riveras de Carbajo and Calatrucha”, stressing the importance of the natural values existing in this privileged corner of the region. Due to its lineal nature, the surface area of the SPAB “Cedillo-Tajo Internacional” is solely of 13,263 hectares, that are distributed amongst the municipal districts of Cedillo, Herrera de Alcántara, Santiago de Alcántara, Valencia de Alcántara, Carbajo; Membrío and Alcántara.

By virtue of the Bird Directive (79/409/CEE), this valuable cross-border area was classified in the year 2000 as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPAB), through Decree 232/2000, dated November 21st, through which new areas of special protection for birds in the Autonomous Community of Extremadura are classified. Likewise, the site is proposed as a Site of Community Importance (SCI), in compliance with the Habitats Directive (92/43/CEE), for its inclusion in the Natura Network 2000.

SITUATION The SPAB of Cedillo-Tajo Internacional is situated to the west of the province of Caceres, bordering Portugal. Its boundaries follow the Tagus River and the Sever River, occupying a narrow fringe that includes all the banks of their basins, except in the end section of the Tagus, where the 135

Cedillo - Tajo Internacional

ACCESS

values of the SPAB, as well as an anthropological exposition especially dedicated to the most ancient settlers of these land, which includes a representation of a prehistoric cave.

From Caceres, following N-521 towards Valencia de Alcántara, we arrive at Membrío, diverting to the left by a road that leads directly to Cedillo passing by Carbajo and Santiago de Alcántara. From the latter locality we have access to Herrera de Alcántara, right on the banks of the Tagus. From Alcántara, situated in the eastern end of the SPAB, we can arrive in Membrío via the road EX-117, crossing the Llanos de Brozas. From Badajoz, the EX-110 passes by Alburquerque and San Vicente de Alcántara, until reaching Valencia de Alcántara, and again via the N-521 we have access to the localities situated on the banks of the Tagus.

FLORA AND FAUNA The riversides of the Tagus were totally flooded with the construction of the Dam of Cedillo, that left under water the natural vegetation that existed in the banks of the river, vegetation that has not been able to regenerate due to the fluctuations of level of the reservoir and the alteration of the natural cycles. Thus, the current "riversides" are nothing more than the vegetation that populated the hillsides of the mountains that encased the river, terrain that now contacts directly with the waters of the river. Nevertheless, the vegetation of the riversides is of a high ecological value due to its excellent state of conservation, its pronounced slope having intervened decisively, making it

FACILITIES There still does not exist a Centre for Interpretation in the SPAB Cedillo-Tajo Internacional. In Cedillo we find the Nature Hall “Tajo-Sever”, where there is abundant information regarding the most representative nature Tajo river

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impossible to use for agricultural purposes, also helping the existence of a broken stretch of terrain through that the streams that flow into the Tagus also follow closely. The predominant vegetation of the banks are the holm oak groves and cork tree groves, accompanied by species that are favoured by the softening effect produced due to the proximity of the water, creating a microclimate that favours the presence of species like wild olive trees, rhamnnus alaternus, kermes oak and myrtle. The scrubs of greasy rockrose are very common, as are yellow broom, white broom and white heather. In the flatter lands the scrubs and bushes are less abundant and they dominate the meadows of holm oaks with brooms and lavenders. The rocky areas that appear in the waters of the Tagus River are important for the reproduction of species of petrocolus birds, that find in these headlands and in the barrier that the water acts as, the necessary security for nesting. Amongst the most significant species in the rocky areas it is necessary to highlight the black stork, Egyptian vulture, tawny vulture, Spanish Imperial eagle, Bonelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eagle and eagle owl. The dense vegetable formations of the hillsides give cover to an important colony of black vultures, sheltered in the confinements of the fluvial courses that flow into the Tagus, with more than 25 pairs. The Tagus River, although regulated by the dam, still preserves a diverse community of fish, especially in their tributaries, the Sever and the

Egyptian vulture

Salor. They are common indigenous species the catfish barbel, yokel, boga, roach and spined loach. The otter is abundant and relatively easy to observe if one has patience and if we are in a position from which we have a view of a large section of the river. The riverbanks were an important refuge some decades ago for the Iberian wolf, not existing recent records of recent sightings in the area. Nevertheless, the Tagus International is considered an excellent natural corridor for this endangered species, allowing for contact to exist between Portugal and the northern half of Spain, through the Erjas River, with the potential distribution areas located more to the south.

ITINERARIES The majority of the banks of the Tagus are only accessible by boat, not existing paths that pass parallel to the riverbed. Hence, the greater part of the possibilities for penetrating into this area is via the paths that lead us to the piers or the surrounding areas of the reservoir. 137

Cedillo - Tajo Internacional

RESERVOIR OF CEDILLO

fruit. Returning towards Cedillo, a path parts to the left from the first sharp curve that we find, and leads us to the banks of the river Tagus. From Cedillo, the local Town Council has marked two routes that lead to the reservoir. One of the, the “Ruta de Machiera”, commences before descending towards the dam and covers part of the banks by following a rural track. It is possible to visit the Dolmen de Joaninha.

From the locality of Cedillo we direct ourselves to the dam, from where it is possible to observe a broad panoramic view of the Tagus River. The dam was constructed in the confluence of the Tagus with the Sever River, right on the border with Portugal. It is possible to cover part of the Sever via the Spanish side, but the difficulties of the terrain does not allow us to continue advancing following its river bed, being necessary for this a boat. During the trajectory it is possible to observe the vegetation of the sides and the bird fauna associated to it, especially in winter, when the wild olive trees are loaded with

PIER OF HERRERA DE ALCÁNTARA One of the best approaches to the Tagus is from the locality of Herrera de Alcántara, following a short road that leads to a pier

Tawny Vulture

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Royal Eagle

the Tagus River, in a time when the waters were not dominated by the dams that currently exist.

on the edge of the river. This place offers excellent panoramic views of the banks and it is possible to observe numerous aquatic species, typical of the Mediterranean vegetation.

WHERE TO STAY At Herrera de Alcántara and Alcántara we can find rural accommodation, with this historical town also offering a camping ground, hotel establishments and soon an Inn.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS Navigating in the totality of the reservoir is limited from January 1st until July 31st, to protect the birds nesting on the river ledges and banks, very sensitive to any kind of human presence. The use of boats with or without motor requires the authorisation of the State Office for the Environment. Routes different to those suggested should not be undertaken, especially around the area of the banks. It is necessary to avoid the river ledges, especially from February to June, period during which the most sensitive species (black stork, Bonelli’s eagle, Egyptian vulture, Spanish Imperial eagle) are nesting. The visit to the Roman Bridge of Alcántara is compulsory when you visit the SPAB. This impressive bridge was the first to be constructed for crossing

WHAT TO EAT This area is well known for its excellent dishes of game, kid and lambs stew, and river fishes, not forgetting cold meats and pork, as well as rich home made sweets.

NEARBY PLACES OF INTEREST FOR TOURISTS Alcántara, along which flows the Tagus River, offers the visitor the possibility of discovering one of the best-conserved Roman bridges of the Iberian Peninsula, and within the interior of the locality, religious buildings of diverse architectural styles, such as the church of Ntra. Sra. De Almocóvar, the monastery of San Benito and the church of San Pedro de Alcántara. 139

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CANCHOS

EXTREMADURA

S PA B

RAMIRO

MORALEJA Canchos de Ramiro

VEGAVIANA

HUÉLAGA CASAS DE D. GÓMEZ CASILLAS DE CORIA GO

RÍO

PESCUEZA ZARZA LA MAYOR RÍO

GÓN

CACHORRILLA

ALA

CECLAVÍN

LEGAL PROTECTION

A range of mountains crosses the fertile plains of the Valle de Alagón, being the end of a mountainous arch that crosses the province of Caceres from Las Villuercas, passing by the Natural Park of Monfragüe (Sierra de Santa Catalina and Sierra de Corchuelas) to finish in Portugal, constituting one of the most important corridors of Extremadura. The SPAB is located along the mountainous range formed by the Sierra de Caballos, Sierra de la Garrapata and Sierra de La Solana, as well as the course of

By virtue of the Bird Directive (79/409/CEE), the “Canchos de Ramiro” were classified in the year 2000 as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPAB), through Decree 232/2000, dated November 21st, through which new areas of special protection for birds in the Autonomous Community of Extremadura are classified. Likewise, the site is proposed as a Site of Community Importance (SCI), in compliance with the Habitats Directive (92/43/CEE), to form part of the Natura Network 2000.

SITUATION

Heron

The SPAB “Canchos de Ramiro” extends throughout the length of the lower part of the Alagón River, a little before the mouth of the Tagus River. Both rivers, due to the effects of the dam of Alcántara, have their riverbeds regulated and their original banks have been covered by the water due to the increase in the flooding level. 141

Canchos de Ramiro

Buitre negro

Alagón River

630 passed Cañaveral, from where we can continue towards Torrejoncillo and arriving without difficulty at Pescueza and Cachorrilla. From the south, the best alternative is from Alcántara, taking the road that crosses the Tagus by the famous Roman bridge, and leads us to Ceclavín.

the River Alagón and its confluence with the River Arrago that sprouts up in the Sierra de Gata, to the north of this area. The SPAB occupies a surface area of 6,236 hectares and includes land belonging to the municipal districts of Cachorrilla, Casillas de Coria, Ceclavín, Cilleros, Moraleja, Pescuenza and Zarza la Mayor.

FACILITIES Currently the SPAB “Canchos de Ramiro” counts with signs in its principal boundaries and thematic panels situated in strategic points. From Cachorrilla parts a route towards Canchos de Ramiro, via the boyar meadow.

ACCESS The best routes part from the N630, between Caceres and Plasencia. From Caceres, once we surpass the Reservoir of Alcantara and before the town of Cañaveral, we will take the deviation to the left towards Coria, via the EX-109. In Portezuelo, we continue in the direction of Acehuche, Cedavín and Zarza la Mayor, crossing the road of the Alagón River, precisely to the south of the SPAB. Another alternative for accessing the north of the SPAB is from the Puerto de los Castaños, in the N-

FLORA AND FAUNA The construction of the Dam of Alcántara caused the lost of vegetation from the riversides that originally covered the rivers Alagón and Arrago, in which black poplar, willows, ash-trees and alder groves prevailed, forming forests gallery. At present there are only a few pieces in some high areas, also on the hillsides of the mountains and in certain streams. 142

Canchos de Ramiro

Gulls

Black Storks

but of deciduous leaf, occupy big areas of the hillsides of shady terrain, being a very representative vegetation of the riverside. Their presence becomes more evident in winter, when the reddish tone of its leaves stands out among the green foliage. The holm oaks remain as low mountains in numerous areas, evolving practically without man's intervention and forming dense stains with the greasy rock rose, red heather, white heather and gorses. In a large part of the SPAB the natural vegetation has been substituted with the reforestation of pines and eucalyptus, which occupy large areas in the hillsides of the main mountains. The importance of the population of the birds existing in this fluvial tract was decisive when giving priority to its classification as a SPAB. Thus, we can highlight the species nesting in the fluvial ledges, like the black stork (5 pairs), Egyptian vulture (10 pairs), tawny vulture (more than 100 pairs), regal eagle (2 pairs),

Therefore, the vegetation of the banks is characteristic of the mountainous hillsides of the riverside of the Tagus and its tributaries, prevailing the holm oaks and cork oaks associated to different species like arbutus, laurustinus, phillrea angustifolia, lentiscus and olives. In the areas that were less affected by the changes of the water level formations of securinegas persist, especially in some of the small tributaries of the Árrago and Alagón. The wild olive trees, are very abundant on all the riversides, favoured by the moderation of the temperatures caused by the effect of water. The wild olive trees are usually accompanied by rhamnnus alaternus, white asparagus, rusk and black bryony. Some wild olive trees have been transformed into olive groves, taking advantage of the potential of the land for their cultivation. The Charnecales (Pistacia lentiscus) formed by the cornicabra (Pistacia terebinthus), species similar to the lentiscus 143

Canchos de Ramiro

Bonelli’s eagle (3 pairs), eagle owl and the peregrine falcon. It is also territory of the imperial eagle, the most endangered bird in the fauna of Extremadura. In some hillsides that cannot be accessed, the black vulture nests, as does the short-toed eagle, booted eagle, regal kite and sparrow hawk. During the winter, the enormous production of small olives by the wild olive trees, constitutes the main resource for thousands of birds, like the robin, blackcap, common thrush, common grackle, white-feathered grackle and chub mackard. In the waters of the back areas of the reservoir it is possible to observe great cormorant, great crested crebe, little grepe, heron, common teal, white stork, mallard, long-tailed mallard, gadwall, common pochard, black headed gull and gull. The species of fish that are of major interest are the Iberian barbel, the boga, the roach and the spined loach. The abundance of fish and red crayfish, as well as the tranquillity of the area, means that there are various pairs of otters in the rivers and their tributaries. Other mammals that are

common on the area are the genet, wildcat, mongoose and badger. The wild boar is abundant in the patches of the mountains, and a prized hunting piece.

ITINERARIES ZARZA LA MAYOR MONFORTINHO (PORTUGAL) Driving down the EX-117, that communicates Alcántara with Zarza la Mayor, we can cover the most accessible areas of the SPAB. Continuing towards Moraleja we find a crossing to the left that takes us to Portugal. The road travels across the sunny area of the Sierra de Caballos, in the northeastern end of the SPAB, showing the typical Mediterranean vegetation of holm oak groves and cork tree groves. The border between Extremadura and Portugal is delimited by the Erjas River, classified as a Site of Community Importance (SCI), due to the interest of its banks and as an ecological corridor. Upon crossing the border we arrive at Monfortinho, locality that is famous for its thermal fountains, existing the a Health Resort on the banks of the Erjas.

Ceclavín

144

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ZARZA LA MAYOR – CECLAVÍN – PESCUEZA

on foot via the meadows that surround Alagón.

The route commences in Zarza la Mayor, continuing the road towards Ceclavín. Before reaching said locality, we cross the Alagón River, existing a bridge from where we can contemplate excellent panoramic views of the river and the mountain ranges. The bridge constitutes the southern border of the SPAB. From here it is possible to undertake by foot routes along the riverbank. Downstream from the bridge, following the left margin we reach a spectacular colony of white storks, located on rocks. Upstream, on the left side, we can penetrate into the typical vegetation of the banks, with broom, wild olive trees, cornicabras, myrtle, rhamnnus alaternus, etc. We continue down the road towards Cachorrilla, crossing the Sierra de la Solana and Sierra de la Garrapata, until you reach Pescueza, the last of the riverbank towns of the SPAB. The route can be continued until Coria, to subsequently enter into Casillas de Coria, in the extreme east of the region, from where it is possible to undertake routes

CACHORRILLA – CANCHOS DE RAMIRO Route of 9.5km. including the return, that can be done by foot in less than 4 hours. It parts from the outskirts of Cachorrilla, from the hermitage situated next to the road that heads towards Zarza la Mayor. A track in good condition crosses an extensive meadow of holm oaks and cork oaks, which go all the way up to the Alagón River. During the journey we can contemplate excellent views of the Canchos, in the area known as El Boquerón, counting with a picnic area and information panels. It is advisable not to climb the rocks from this spot, warning applicable for the whole year. Very adequate for the bicycle.

Zarza la Mayor

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SIERRA

EXTREMADURA

SIRUELA

S PA B

Sierra de Siruela

RÍO SIRUELA

SIRUELA TAMUREJO

BATERNO SANCTI-SPIRITUS

RISCO GARLITOS EMBALSE DE LA SERENA

LEGAL PROTECTION

Garlitos, being the principle references. At present, the mountain range is surrounded by the south and west by two large inlets of the Reservoir of La Serena. The SPAB has a surface area of 6,118 hectares, maintaining an altitude level of 600 metres in all its perimeter, in the peaks of Motilla, Puerto Viejo and Junco, being included parts of the municipal districts of Baterno, Garlitos, Risco and Siruela.

Deer

SITUATION The SPAB “Sierra de Siruela” occupies the totality of the mountain range of the same name, situated half way between the regions of La Serena and La Siberia, right on the eastern border of the province of Badajoz. To the north, we find the localities of Garbayuela and Tamurejo, and to the south 147

Sierra de Siruela

ACCESS

road that directly leads to Siruela. An interesting opportunity for discovering the eastern part of the province of Badajoz, generally outside the usual tourist circuits.

Parting from MĂŠrida, follow the E-90 in the direction of Madrid, until taking the bypass to Ciudad Real, just when passing Torrefresnada. Continue down the N-430 until Casas de Don Pedro, continuing until Talarrubias and from there to Siruela, from where it is possible to visit any area of the SPAB. Another alternative route from the south would be to divert via the N-630, before reaching the Monastery, in the direction of Pallares and follow the EX-103 through Llerena, Zalamea de la Serena and Puebla de Alcocer, until reaching the crossing of Talarrubias, from where parts a

FACILITIES There are no environmental infrastructures in the SPAB, solely panels marking the perimeter and general information, as well as a marked route.

FLORA AND FAUNA The most representative vegetation of the Sierra de Siruela are the hillsides of gall oaks, quercineo that appears

Deer grazing

148

Sierra de Siruela

a vegetation of oleanders, securinegas, rushes and brooms that are very well conserved, of the best in the province of Badajoz. The Arroyo de Chorre贸n, Arroyo de la Dehesa y Arroyo de la Cela that flow towards the Esteras River, fluvial course that the surrounds the SPAB from the south. On the other side, the Arroyo Serrano pours his waters into the Guadalemar River. The framework of fluvial courses constitutes a true network of corridors that join the mountain ranges with the plains and with the main humid areas. In fact, these streams are also included in the proposal of Site of

blended next to holm oaks and cork oaks in some enclaves. In the same way, the different degrading phases caused by man's activity during the centuries, has transformed the forest into interesting formations of scrubs, where some species of heather and gorse prevail, of botanical interest. The altitude level of 600 metres includes the best vegetable formations in the mountain range, both in sunny areas as well as in shaded areas. However, some reforestation of pine groves, olive groves and orchards exist within its limits. From the leafy hillsides sprout out various streams that present

Siruela

149

Sierra de Siruela

Community Interest (SCI) of the Network Natura 2000 with the denomination of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Corredores de Siruela", both because of the value of the vegetation as well as because of the fauna of fish, especially in the Esteras River. Among the most representative species, we must highlight the presence of the black vulture, that during the last seasons has been nesting in these areas, being one of the scarce enclaves of the province of Badajoz where this species nests. Other species of birds that frequent the area are the black stork (2 pairs), Egyptian vulture (1 pair), Spanish Imperial eagle (5 pairs), Bonelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eagle (5 pairs), eagle owl (5 pairs) and chough. Again, the rocky edges and the security of the dense vegetation of the hillsides are the key to the existence of the presence of numerous threatened species threatened petrocolus. The forest cover of the mountain ranges, even with pine grove reforestation, favours the presence of other predators like the goshawk or the sparrow hawk. The wood pigeons in

winter, surpass the figure of 2,000 birds in some sleeping areas of the mountains, and in the nearby meadows there exists a small nucleus over-wintering cranes. Large areas of the mountain ranges are included within the limits of game preserve, with the deer and boar being abundant in the mountain patches.

ITINERARIES SIRUELA - HERMITAGE OF ALTAGRACIA From the locality of Siruela and following the road towards Tamurejo, a bypass to the right leads us to the Hermitage of Altagracia, an exceptional place to visit and stroll around. In the surrounding areas, it is possible to see gall-oaks mixed with other trees. A good panoramic view from there of the mountain ranges of Tamurejo and Agudo. SIRUELA - SANCTI SPIRITUS - GARLITOS From Siruela we can circle the mountain range by road leading us towards Sancti Spiritu, and then heading towards Risco, a small locality on the border of

Garlitos

150

Sierra de Siruela

Eagle Owl

Hermitage of Altagracia

point. Upon arriving in Umbría de los Tordos, right in the valley where the Arroyo de la Cela sprouts up, we can opt between continuing towards Puerto del Cura, from the northern side of the slope, or cross the Sierra de Siruela towards the south, until reaching Umbría del Serrano. Another alternative from Umbría de los Tordos is to follow the Path from Siruela to Garlitos, that penetrates into the pine grooves of the mountain range.

the SPAB, out in the open sunny area. Garlitos, situated in the far south, offers an excellent panoramic view, and from there it is possible to commence small routes through the interesting streams that flows down towards the Esteras River. In all the area that borders with the province of Ciudad Real it is possible to discover places that deserve to be visited. SIRUELA - SIERRA DEL PALO From the outskirts of Siruela we can follow on foot the Camino de los Tejedores (The Path of the Weavers), that gradually ascends towards the mountain range crossing the olive groves closest to the town. Ascending via the Valle del Castaño, amongst pine groves, we reach Collado de Simón, by then having surpassed more than 350 metres in altitude difference in comparison with our starting

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS In the deer-bellowing season (September), it is possible to hear the sound of the males from many points. Due to the importance of the area for certain protected species, it is recommended that you do not depart from the marked routes. 151

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SIERRA

EXTREMADURA

LA MORALEJA

S PA B

Sierra de La Moraleja

EMBALSE DE LA SERENA

CAPILLA SIERRA DE LA MORALEJA

RÍO GUADÁLMEZ

LEGAL PROTECTION

from the south the extensive pastures of La Serena, and that extends from the Sierra de Tiros, Sierra de la Rinconada, Sierra de las Cabras and Sierra del Palenque. The eastern part of the SPAB “Sierra de la Moraleja” ends on the boundary with the province of Ciudad Real, but there the mountain range has continuity in the Sierra de las Hoyuelas, towards Chillón. The Reservoir of La Serena, one of the largest in Europe, pools its waters in the slopes themselves of the Sierra de la Moraleja, flooding a large part of its valley, right in the spot where the Zújar River, after surrounding the

SITUATION Small mountain range in the eastern end of the province of Badajoz, being the last of the formations that shape a mountainous arch that closes

Booted Eagle

153

Sierra de La Moraleja

highlands, introduces itself into the pastures of La Serena, rotating 90º. The SPAB has a reduced surface area, given that its boundaries are restricted to the high part of the mountain range, around the altitude level of 600 metres, where the habitat presents a greater level of conservation. Its 595 hectares are found in the municipal district of Capilla.

the crossing towards Peñalsordo, and from there we will continue towards Capilla, in the direction of Chillón.

FACILITIES There are perimeter and general information sign panels.

FLORA AND FAUNA The Sierra de Moraleja is a mountainous formation of quartzite origin whose hillsides are covered with Mediterranean vegetation, excellently conserved, prevailing the cork oaks, holm oaks and gall oaks, as well as junipers and wild olive trees. In fact, the vegetable formations that have propitiated the inclusion of this small enclave within the Network Natura 2000, are the gall-oak grove formations, species that is similar to the holm oak but of deciduous leaf, that occupy 35% of the surface of the ZEPA, as well as the extraordinary enbrales of the quartzite summits of the mountain range. Like all the mountain ranges that surround La Serena, they present a marked difference among the vegetation of the

ACCESS Given that it is situated in the furthest end of the province of Badajoz, the best reference for commencing a route is Mérida. From Mérida, driving down the E-90 heading towards Madrid, we will take the bypass to Ciudad Real, following the N430. Subsequently, we will continue through the that leads to Villanueva de la Serena, and continuing on the EX-104 we will pass by Campanario, Castuera and Cabeza del Buey. From the road that surrounds Cabeza del Buey we will take Tawny Vultures

Cranes

154

Sierra de La Moraleja

sunshine hillsides and shaded areas. The sunshine area is dominated by wild olive trees and lentiscus, and they are partly cultivated with olive groves, some implanted in ancient times over the indigenous olive groves themselves. In the shady areas we find plenty of laurustinus, arbutus and phillrea angustifolia. The quartzite rocks that crown the mountain range allow for the nesting of birds so scarce as the black stork, Egyptian vulture, Spanish Imperial eagle, eagle owl or chough, that has deserved its designation as a ZEPA. Although they do not nest here, it is common to see tawny vultures in the cliffs and it is also a camping area for the black vulture that nests in the mountain ranges nearby. In the area it is easy to observe Bonelli’s eagle, booted eagle, short-toed eagle and red kite. Most of the species that nest in the cliffs depend for their feeding on the pastures and crops of La Serena, being two intimately related habitats. In the winter more than 1,000 cranes feed in the meadows nearby, and they use the ends of the Reservoir as a sleeping area.

locality, from where it is possible to see the vegetation of the sunny area.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS It is necessary to avoid climbing on rocks, especially from February to June, period during which the most sensitive species (black stork, Bonelli’s eagle, Egyptian vulture, Spanish Imperial eagle) are nesting, given that it may lead to failure in the reproduction process. In the autumn, when the galloaks shed their leaves and appear as golden trees in the middle of a dense green area, it is the best moment for discovering where the gall-oak grooves are found and their true importance to the Mediterranean forest.

Capilla

ITINERARIES CAPILLA - GUADALMEZ Parting from Capilla in the direction of Chillón (in the province of Ciudad Real), from the road we will leave the mountain range to the right, observing all the shaded area of the hillside, with its dense vegetation. From Chillón we will continue towards Guadalmez and circling the mountain range from the east we will reach said 155

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EXTREMADURA

MOHEDA ALTA P E R I U R B A N C O N S E R VAT I O N A N D R E C R E AT I O N R E S E R V E

Moheda Alta

OBANDO

NAVALVILLAR DE PELA

LEGAL PROTECTION

due to the importance of the extensive formations of meadows that occupy the area.

The Periurban Conservation and Recreation Reserve “Moheda Alta” is the first reserve in Extremadura designated with that category of protection. It was created in March of the year 2001, by means of a Decree issued by the Autonomous Government of Extremadura (Decree 35/2001) and pursuant to the Law 8/98 for the conservation of nature and natural spaces of Extremadura. The Periurban Reserve is included within the Site of Community Importance (SCI) denominated “Dehesas del Cubilar”, proposed to form part of the Network Natura 2000,

SITUATION The Estate of Moheda Alta is found at the head of the region of Vegas Altas del Guadiana, halfway between the Sierra de Pela and the mountain ranges of Villuercas. We are dealing with an extensive surface area of meadows that were safeguarded from the irrigation transformation of the Badajoz Plan, for dealing with terrain less apt for cultivation, and for maintaining agricultural and livestock farms, the owners of which did not desire to convert into irrigation land. Wood pigeon

157

Moheda Alta

FACILITIES

Except on the western border, at present it is surrounded by irrigation crops of corn and rice. The totality of the Estate of Moheda Alta, with 150 hectares, is included in the Periurban Reserve, and is the property of the Local Government of Navalvillar de Pela.

Given its recent designation as a protected area, it does not yet have any signs nor any environmental facilities.

HISTORY One of the most significant natural and cultural values of Moheda Alta was to count with a centennial holm oak denominated “La Encina de Convenio”, famous for being in the past the meeting point for farmers and stock breeders where they established the distribution of flights, the fodder and the sowing. The year in which the proceedings commenced for its designation as a Singular Tree, due its spectacular dimensions, it died affected by a disease known as “dryness of the holm oak, like many of the trees surrounding it. Currently, the holm oak grove remains completely dry and bereft of the grandiose cup that in the past was considered the highest of the meadow.

ACCESS The easiest access is from the N430 (Mérida-Ciudad Real). On the same road, upon passing Navalvillar de Pela and close to Obanda, take the crossing in the direction of Guadalupe following the road EX-116. Once you have passed the bridge over the Cubilar River, after about 2km. we find to the right of the road a meadow that is completely surrounded by a lively wooden fence. Black-winged kite

FLORA AND FAUNA The meadow of Moheda Alta is composed exclusively of oaks, being of a great variety of ages and in different states of development. Although most of the trunks are well formed, there is a high density of kermes oaks and trees of intermediate ages that have never been pruned by man. For this reason, the Periurban Reserve seeks to develop an formative activity centred in teaching how human intervention helps in the creation of the meadows and how a sustainable model of use and respect for the environment has been attained. 158

Moheda Alta

situated a scarce 200 metres away, is considered a wetland of national importance and it is possible to observe different species of aquatic birds, like mallard, long-tailed mallard, shoveler, gadwall, common teal, common coot, common goose, great cormorant, heron, blackheaded gull, etc.

The meadow presents some accompanying species such as spurge, broom, hawthorn and there are also some swamp areas that present bulrush. The most representative species in the area is the common crane, present only in winter and that it feeds under the oaks of the meadow, with acorns. At a small distance from the Park, in the rice paddies of the back section of the Charca de Gorbea, we find one of the largest sleeping areas of the common crane of all Europe, being able to take in more than 10,000 birds in some periods. In general the irrigation lands and meadows of the Vegas Altas del Guadiana constitute the most important hibernation area for this species on their migratory route. Furthermore, it is possible to see in the area other birds like blackwinged kite, common buzzard, black kite, red kite, cattle egret, azure-winged magpie, wood pigeon. The Charca de Gorbea,

ITINERARIES At present there are no itineraries marked on the terrain, but it is foreseen that shortly the principal routes that can be realised within and outside the Periurban Reserve will be marked.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS It is recommended that the cranes be observed at a distance, given that the proximity of people, vehicles and noise leads to the birds flying off at the smallest disturbance. Cranes

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EXTREMADURA

ALCARRACHE RIVER E C O LO G I C A L A N D B I O D I V E R S I T Y CORRIDOR

Alcarrache river PRESA DEL AGUJÓN

ARROYO FRIEGAMUNAZ

HIGUERA DE VARGAS CHE

ARR

RÍO

ALC

VILLANUEVA DEL FRESNO

ZAHÍNOS

LEGAL PROTECTION

80km.2 and extends from its source in the mountainous formations of Sierra Brava and Sierra de Santa María, in the proximity of Barcarrota and Salvaleón, until the south of Villanueva del Fresno, where it abandons Extremadura. The last part of the river passes through Portugal, to empty into the

The Ecological and Biodiversity Corridor “Alcarrache River” has been the first in Extremadura to be designated with that category of protection. It was created in July of the year 2001, by means of a Decree issued by the Autonomous Government of Extremadura (Decree 105/2001) and pursuant to the Law 8/98 for the conservation of nature and natural spaces of Extremadura. The Alcarrache River has also been classified as a Site of Community Importance (SCI) denominated “Dehesas del Cubilar”, proposed to form part of the Network Natura 2000, due to the excellent state of conservation of the vegetation of its banks. During the main part of its trajectory it crosses the SPAB “Dehesas de Jerez”, being one of main rivers of said area.

Stonechat

SITUATION The basin of the Alcarrache River occupies approximately 161

Alcarrache river

Guadiana River to the south of Mour達o. Throughout its 59km. of trajectory, its banks cross the municipal districts of Barcarrota, Olivenza, Alconchel, Higuera de Vargas, Villanueva del Fresno and Jerez de los Caballeros.

Furthermore, from Barcarrota the road can be followed towards Higuera de Vargas, crossing one of the high parts of the river.

FACILITIES In Barcarrota we find a WaterAir Centre for Interpretation, under the administration of the Local Government and the State Office for the Environment, where it is possible to obtain information regarding the Alcarrache River and the principal environmental values of the area. Diverse aspects related with the water cycle, erosion and geological processes are represented in models. It also counts with thematic panels regarding the local fauna and flora.

ACCESS The Alcarrache River can be assessed from diverse parts of its trajectory, being recommendable those where it is crossed by roads. From Badajoz, following the EX-107, through Olivenza and Alconchel we reach Villanueva del Fresno. From said locality we can reach the lowest part of the river following the road towards Valencia del Mombuey. The river can also be accessed from Villanueva del Fresno, following the EX-112 to Oliva de la Frontera. The N-435 (Badajoz-Huelva), in the proximity of Barcarrota, crosses the two principal riverbeds from which the Alcarrache sprouts.

FLORA AND FAUNA The predominant vegetation along the whole fluvial bed is the oleander and the securinega, two species typically Mediterranean species and adapted to the seasonal

Banks of the Alcarrache

162

Alcarrache river

Alcarrache River

Most of the meadowed estates are delimited by stonewalls, adding an additional panoramic value. In the walls, different species like the ferns, tine, foxglove, mosses, etc. appear. The most representative species is the black stork that uses the river as a feeding area, where it can be observed at distance while it captures its preys in the backwaters and ravines. It nests in the rocky areas and in the big cork oaks of the meadows. Amongst the birds characteristic of the oleanders and securinegas, we could highlight: white wigtail, Cercotrichos Galactotes common nightingale, common stonechat, common grackle, common zarzer, Sardinian warbler, subalpine warbler, Dartford warbler, Moorish sparrow, greenfinch, common yokel, corn bunting and cirl bunting. In the surrounding meadows the common buzzard, black kite and red kite are also common. The most common aquatic species are heron, common egret, large sandpiper, mallard and water chick. The dense vegetation of the banks serves as refuge for the

character of the river, resisting the shortage of water perfectly during the dry months. In some areas, these species cover the whole riverbed of the Alcarrache, forming a dense impenetrable tangle. In spring the colours of the oleanders stand out, being able to find samples with rosy or white flowers. The securinega hardly stands out in spring but in winter, when losing the cover of its green leaves, the river acquires a curious violet tone due to the peculiar colour of its branches and stems. Along its course, the river is surrounded by holm oak groves, sometimes forming thick stains, and in most cases being used as meadows for cattle. In some enclaves cork oaks are also frequent. Other species associated to their banks are the wild pear, hawthorn, kermes oak, fig, wild olive tree, lentiscus, broom of balls, yellow broom, greasy rock rose, white rock rose and Moorish sunrose. The pastures associated to the riversides are of great interest, being classified by the Union European as habitats that require protection. 163

RĂo Alcarrache

Black-shouldered Kite

164

Alcarrache river

ITINERARIES

otter, abundant throughout the whole river, it being possible to find remains of its presence on the stones and the sand of the banks. The fauna of fish is especially important, highlighting the presence of the jarabugo (endemic fish of the basin of the Guadiana and classified as an endangered species), barbel, boga, yokel, roach and spined loach. In their waters both the leprous tortoise as well as the European tortoise coexist, the latter scarcer, the distribution of which is restricted in Extremadura to some fluvial beds with clean waters. The fauna of butterflies is especially spectacular, being inventoried more than 50 species of lepidopterons ropalocerous, including 33% of all those present currently in the region. For some, this is the only place where their presence in Extremadura has been verified.

The different accesses indicated above are proposed as routes, the routes being able to be commenced on foot from the bridges that cross the river. In most cases, there exist tracks and paths that cover sections of diverse longitude close to the edge.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE VISITORS During the reproductive season (from April to June) it is preferable to undertake routes that go along the sides, avoiding entering into the ledges and rocky areas. In some areas we will find gates and barriers, which we must leave closed once we have passed through so as to prevent the livestock from being able to escape. We can also visit the Reservoir of Ahij贸n, situated in the high section of the river close to Barcarrota, place recommended for the observation of aquatic birds, especially open water birds, as well as the typical fauna found within meadows.

Black Stork

European Tortoise

165

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EXTREMADURA

LA TERRONA HOLM OAK

A TRUJILLO Holm oak La Terrona

A CÁCERES SALVATIERRA DE SANTIAGO

ENCINA LA TERRONA

VALDEFUENTES

ZARZA DE MONTÁNCHEZ

A ALCUÉSCAR MONTÁNCHEZ

A VALDEMORALES

HOW TO GET THERE

THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT

The path that leads us towards the Holm Oak La Terrona is perfectly marked from the locality of Zarza de Montánchez, Caceres, in the region of Sierra de Montánchez. From the area of the municipal swimming pools there is a dirt track that interweaves between fences and that passes by an attractive medieval bridge; crossing it and following that same path, and in between holm oaks, we will arrive, scarcely one kilometre away to our left, at the place known as Cordel de La Cumbre, where we will find the majestic image of the Holm Oak La Terrona.

Majestic holm oaks that are very well conserved, where it is easy to observe typical herds of Iberian pigs that feed on the acorns that fall from the thousands of holm oaks that exist in these lands. In these meadows close to Sierra de Montánchez you will continue to see fluttering around storks, birds of prey and other birds that are typical of this Mediterranean forest.

CHARACTERISTICS Species: Holm Oak Total height: 16.5 m. Perimeter of the trunk: 7.75m. Perimeter of the base: 9.42m Approximate age: 800 years

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EXTREMADURA

LA MARQUESA HOLM OAK

Holm oak La Marquesa

TALAYUELA

CENTRO DE FORMACIĂ&#x201C;N AGRARIA ENCINA LA MARQUESA

A MADRID

NAVALMORAL DE LA MATA A TRUJILLO

HOW TO GET THERE

THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT

To discover the famous Large Holm Oak, or Holm Oak La Marquesa, situated in the region of Campo AraĂąuelo, we can approach from Navalmoral de la Mata, taking the provincial road that joins this locality with the nearby Talayuela, and approximately six kilometres, and to the left, we find the Centre for Agrarian Formation, into which we must enter and cross during a few minutes part of its excellent installations, until reaching the site where this exceptional holm oak is situated.

Excellent example of the meadows of Extremadura, where we find the mixed forest of holm oaks and oak trees. Habitat that is magnificent for numerous birds that nest or rest in this area throughout the whole year, like raptorial birds or storks. We can also admire, within the territory occupied by the Centre for Agrarian Formation, beautiful specimens of a very dark skinned cattle breed, without forgetting the excellent horses that in these lands are destined to equestrian classes.

CHARACTERISTICS Species: Holm Oak Total height: 22 m. Perimeter of the trunk: 4.95 m. Perimeter of the base: 5.65m. Approximate age: 800 years

169

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

ACARREADERO OAK TREE OF

Oak tree of Acarreadero

A SALAMANCA ROBLE DEL ACARREADERO VILLAR DE PLASENCIA A JERTE

CABEZABELLOSA

EL TORNO

A PLASENCIA

HOW TO GET THERE

THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT

It can be accessed from the valley of the Ambroz River, and from the locality of El Torno in the region of the Valley of Jerte. From Ambroz, and concretely from the N-630, we will take the road that leads us to the localities of Villar de Plasencia and Cabezabellosa. Before entering this town we will continue down the bypass that exists in the direction of El Tormo, finding in the descent, after a slight ascent, a flat area to our left, with an entry gate that accesses the oak tree grove that can be seen from the road, where we find the Oak Tree Acarreadero.

Majestic oak tree situated in the area known as “El Romanejo”, within the municipal district of the locality of Cabezabellosa, province of Caceres. This oak tree of Acarreadero is known by all the locals as the king oak tree of these mountain ranges. Around this oak tree grove we can find another species that is characteristic of the area, the chestnut. The mixture of oak trees and chestnut tress confers this area with great colouristic beauty during spring and summer, standing out the orange and yellow colours during the autumn season, when this area enjoys a very special charm.

CHARACTERISTICS Species: Melojo Oak Tree Total height: 26 m. Perimeter of the trunk: 6 m. Perimeter of the base: 10 m. Approximate age: 600 years

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EXTREMADURA

CEREZAL YEW OF

Yew of Cerezal

HOW TO GET THERE

THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT

In the region of Las Hurdes and within the municipal district of Nu単omoral we find the locality of Cerezal, on the outskirts of which is situated the beautiful dam of Arrocerezal. Crossing this dam and to our right there is a path that ascends towards the sites known as El Lomo Carrasco and El Collado de los Gamellos, right in the heart of Garganta de Cerezal, tributary of the Hurdano River. In this terrain we find important yews, so scarce in Extremadura.

Hillsides and gorges through which run clean and crystalline waters, that are detained downstream in the beautiful dam of Arrocerezal. The yews coexist in these leafy and rural areas with other tree species, like the heather, pine trees, willows and holm oaks, observing lower down plantations of cherry trees and small chestnuts. The vultures are abundant throughout all this area. Nesting together with other smaller raptorial birds in these mountain ranges, converted into a habitat that is ideal for these species.

CHARACTERISTICS Species: Yew Total height: 15 m. Perimeter of the trunk: 3 m. Perimeter of the base: 2.30 m. Approximate age: Centennial

173

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

LAS MESTAS JUNIPER OF

Juniper of Las Mestas

A LA ALBERCA LADRILLAR

ENEBRO DE LAS MESTAS

NUﾃ前MORAL

LAS MESTAS A RIOMALO DE ABAJO

A PINOFRANQUEADO

HOW TO GET THERE

and outside as one of the most important agricultural nucleus of Extremadura.

In the region of Las Hurdes, and in the locality of Las Mestas, belonging to the municipal district of El Ladrillar, we find within its urban core a centennial and magnificent specimen of a juniper, approximately four centuries old, and situated a few metres away from the church.

CHARACTERISTICS Species: Juniper Total height: 14 m. Perimeter of the trunk: 2.20 m. Approximate age: 350 years

THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT It is situated on a bed of slate so characteristic of this region of Las Hurdes, reforested a few decades ago with numerous pine trees that have substituted, to a great extent, the indigenous trees that in the past dominated these areas. This splendid urban tree is found in one of the most typical localities of Las Hurdes, popularly known both within 175

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

TEMBLAR CHESTNUT OF

A SALAMANCA

Chestnut of Temblar

ALDEANUEVA DEL CAMINO

CASTAﾃ前 DEL TEMBLAR SEGURA DE TORO

A PLASENCIA

CASAS DEL MONTE

HOW TO GET THERE

There are also chestnuts and brambles.

This chestnut, and others of identical ecological value, are found in the locality of Segura de Toro, accessing the area where it is situated in just a few minutes, known as the are of Los Castaﾃｱos de la Sierra, situated next to the stream of El Temblar, which gives its name to this centennial Singular Tree of Extremadura.

CHARACTERISTICS Species: Chestnut Total height: 19 m. Perimeter of the trunk: 9 m. Approximate age: 800 years

THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT Centennial forests of chestnuts, some of them already in a state of regression due to their advanced age. The closeness of the stream of El Temblar provides it with abundant water, and we can also make out a beautiful forest gallery. Oak trees are what we mostly find in the surrounding areas, and when autumn arrives, as well as during spring, the colours observed are admirable. 177

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

LA FRESNEDA CORK OAK OF

ALCORNOQUE LA FRESNEDA

Cork oak of La Fresneda

A SALAMANCA ABADÍA ALDEANUEVA DEL CAMINO A GRANADILLA

SEGURA DE TORO A PLASENCIA

HOW TO GET THERE

THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT

From the locality of Aldeanueva del Camino, in the region of the Valley of Ambroz, on the N-630, we find a marked bypass that leads us to the nearby town of Abadía. Barely one kilometre away to our left, and in the middle of an immense cork tree grove known as the terrain of the Dehesa de Ramón Flores, we find this splendid and centennial cork oak, also known popularly as Cork Oak of La Abadía.

In the midst of the Valley of Ambroz we find immense cork oak groves in the lowest area of the region, today meadowed, originally leafy forests. Cattle pasture amongst fences in these areas and the enormous trunks of the numerous cork oaks or the tops of its trees have always been used by the enormous number of birds that inhabit these lands.

CHARACTERISTICS Species: Holm Oak Total height: 18 m. Perimeter of the trunk: 6.15 m. Perimeter of the base: 6.40 m. Approximate age: 500 years

179

A N E COTOURISM G U I D E

EXTREMADURA

CORBICHE CHESTNUT OF

Chestnut of Corbiche

A SALAMANCA

ALDEANUEVA DEL CAMINO

SEGURA DE TORO

A PLASENCIA

CASTAﾃ前 EL CORBICHE

CASAS DEL MONTE

HOW TO GET THERE

see extensive plantations of cherry trees that further add, with their white colours in spring or their red colours in autumn, to the spectacular colourful views seen here throughout the greater part of the year.

In the Valley of Ambroz we find the locality of Casas del Monte, on the sides of the Mountains of the Traslasierra. From this town and via a forest path that ascends, we cross oak tree groves and chestnut groves, arriving at a Hydroelectric Power Station, from where we can approach the terrain known as Los Berruecos, where we find the centennial chestnuts of Corbiche.

CHARACTERISTICS Species: Chestnut Total height: 15 m. Perimeter of the trunk: 13 m. Approximate age: 500 years

THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT Umbrﾃｭa de Traslasierra, where the oak tree is the principal tree species that dominates the view, mixing with attractive and centennial chestnuts that stand out in the area due to their old trunks. On the sides of the mountain range it is possible to 181

I NFORMATION

OF INTEREST

TOURIST ADMINISTRATION

TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES OF EXTREMADURA

CONSEJERÍA DE CULTURA DEPENDENCIES OF THE AUTONOMOUS GOVERNMENT OF EXTREMADURA

Y TURISMO C/ Almendralejo, 14 06800 Mérida

CÁCERES Plaza Mayor, 3 10003 Cáceres Tfnos. 927 01 08 34 927 01 08 35 Fax 927 01 08 36 ofiturismo.caceres@juntaextremadura.net

Tfno. 924 00 70 09

DIRECCIÓN GENERAL DE TURISMO C/ Santa Eulalia, 30 06800 Mérida

PLASENCIA Pza. de Torre de Lucía s/n. 10600 Plasencia Tfno. 927 01 78 40 Fax 927 01 78 41 ofiturismo.plasencia@juntaextremadura.net

Tfno. 924 00 83 43 Fax 924 00 83 54 www.turismoextremadura.com turismo@juntaextremadura.net

INSPECCIÓN PROVINCIAL DE VILLARREAL DE SAN CARLOS Centro de Información del Parque Natural de Monfragüe. 10695 Villarreal de San Carlos. Tfno. y Fax 927 19 91 34

TURISMO DE BADAJOZ Avda. de Europa, 10 06004 Badajoz Tfno. 924 01 06 83 Fax 924 01 07 10

MUNICIPALITIES OR CONVENTION OF MUNICIPALITIES

INSPECCIÓN PROVINCIAL DE TURISMO DE CÁCERES

ALANGE C/ Trinidad, 19 06840 Alange Tfno.: 924 36 52 19 Fax: 924 36 50 39 www.alange.es turismo@alange.es

C/ Gómez Becerra, 21 10001 Cáceres Tfno. 927 00 56 31 Fax 927 21 16 38

TUREXTREMADURA

ALBURQUERQUE Plaza de España, s/n 06510 Alburquerque Tfno. 924 40 12 02 Fax 924 40 12 02 924401202@telefonica.net

Avda. de Extremadura, 5 bajo 06800 Mérida Tfno. y Fax: 924 30 46 07 / 08 www.turiex.com turiex@turiex.com 184

ALCÁNTARA Avenida de Mérida, 21 10980 Alcántara Tfno. 927 39 08 63 Fax 927 39 08 63 www.e-alcantara.net ofiturismo@inicia.es

CÁCERES (Oficina Municipal) C/ Ancha, 7 10003 Cáceres Tfno.: 927 24 71 72 CAMINOMORISCO Avda. de las Hurdes, s/n 10620 Caminomorisco Tfno. 927 43 53 29 Fax 927 43 53 29 www.todohurdes.com turismo@todohurdes.com

ALISEDA C/ Tesoro, s/n (Casa de la Cultura) 10550 Aliseda Tfno. 927 27 70 02 aliseda@hotmail.com

CORIA Avda. de Extremadura, 39 10800 Coria Tfno. 927 50 13 51 Fax 927 50 07 35 (Ayto.) www.coria.org oficinaturismo@coria.infomail.es

ALMENDRALEJO Atrio de la Piedad, 2 06200 Almendralejo Tfno. 924 66 69 67 Fax 924 66 69 67 www.ayto-almendralejo.es otalmendralejo@dipbadajoz.es

DON BENITO Villanueva, 1 06400 Don Benito Tfno. 924 80 80 84 Tfno y Fax 924 80 53 50 www.donbenito.org turismo@donbenito.es

AZUAGA Casa de la Cultura, Plaza de la Merced, 12 06920 Azuaga Tfno y Fax 924 13 78 38 www.azuaga.es otazuaga@dip-badajoz.es

FREGENAL DE LA SIERRA El Rollo, 1 06340 Fregenal de la Sierra Tfno. 924 70 00 00 Fax 924 70 03 83 www.audinex.es/fregenal turismofregenal@yahoo.es

BADAJOZ (Oficina Municipal) Pasaje de San Juan s/n 06005 Badajoz Tfno.: 924 22 49 81 Fax: 924 21 02 32 BAÑOS DE MONTEMAYOR Mayor, 78 (Ayuntamiento) 10750 Baños de Montemayor Tfno. 927 48 80 12 (Ayto.) Fax 927 48 80 75 (Ayto.) www.valledelambroz.com turismo@banosdemontemayor.com

FUENTES DE LEÓN C/ Galinda, s/n 06280 Fuentes de León Tfno.: 924 72 41 74 Fax: 924 72 41 61 GUADALUPE Pza Sta. María de Guadalupe s/n 10140 Guadalupe Tfno. 927 15 41 28 Fax 927 15 41 28 www.puebladeguadalupe.net ayto-guadalupe@ hotmail.com

BELVÍS DE MONROY C/ Real s/n 10394 Belvís de Monroy Tfno. 927 57 59 68 Fax: 927 57 57 84 (Ayto.) 185

HERVÁS Braulio Navas, 6 10700 Hervás Tfno. 927 47 36 18 Fax 927 47 36 18 www.hervas.com oficina.turismo@hervas.com

JERTE Avda. Ramón y Cajal s/n 10612 Jerte Tfno.: 927 47 04 53 Fax: 927 47 03 39 oficinadeturismodejerte@hotmail.com LLERENA Aurora 2 06900 Llerena Tfno. 924 87 05 51 Fax 924 87 05 51 www.llerena.org oficinaturismo@llerena.org

HERRERA DEL DUQUE Avda. de la Palmera, 1 06670 Herrera del Duque Tfno.: 924 65 02 31 Fax: 924 65 00 25 ot_herreradelduque@hotmail.com HIGUERA LA REAL C/ Fuente, 12 06350 Higuera la Real Tfno.: 924 72 33 28 Fax: 924 72 71 30 ayuntamiento@higuera.org

LOS SANTOS DE MAIMONA Plaza de España, 9 (Casa de la Cultura) 06230 Los Santos de Maimona Tfno.: 924 54 48 01 Fax: 924 54 48 01 oficinadeturismo@lossantosdemaimona.org

HORNACHOS Felipe Trigo, 1 (Casa de la Cultura) 06228 Hornachos Tfno. 924 53 35 33 Fax 924 53 36 07 www.hornachos.es oficinaturismo@hornachos.es

MALPARTIDA DE CÁCERES Muñoz Torrero, s/n. 10910 Malpartida de Cáceres Tfno. 927 27 67 23 (Ayto.) Fax 927 27 67 23 (Ayto.) www.aytomalpartidacc.com turismo@aytomalpartidacc.com

JARAÍZ DE LA VERA Avda. Constitución, 167 10400 Jaraíz de la Vera Tfno. 927 17 05 87 Fax 927 46 06 46 www.ayto-jaraiz.com turismo@ayto-jaraiz.com

MDAD. DE ALCONAVAR C/ Hernán Cortés, 6 10161 Arroyomolinos Tfno. 927 38 53 06 turismoalcanavarr@hotmail.com MDAD. TRASIERRA-TIERRAS DE GRANADILLA Plaza de Poblado Gabriel y Galán 10712 Pantano de Gabriel y Galán Tfno.: 927 43 94 76 Fax: 927 43 96 66 gerencia@tierras de granadilla.org

JARANDILLA DE LA VERA Plaza de la Constitución, 1 10450 Jarandilla de la Vera Tfno. 927 56 04 60 Fax 927 56 04 60 www.jarandilla.net ayto.turismo@jarandilla.com

MDAD. DE LA SERENA Palacio de los Condes de Ayala Plaza de España, s/n 06420 Castuera Tfno. 924 77 38 17 Fax 924 76 06 35 www.laserena.org oitserena@laserena.org

JEREZ DE LOS CABALLEROS Avda. de la Constitución 4 06380 Jerez de los Caballeros Tfno. 924 73 03 72 Fax 924 73 02 04 www.jerezdeloscaballeros.es turismo@jerezdeloscaballeros.e.telefonica.net 186

MDAD. DE LA SIERRA DE GATA Plaza del Vadillo, 1 10867 Robledillo de Gata Tfno. 927 67 10 11 Fax 927 67 10 80 (Ayto.) www.robledillodegata.com www.sierradegata.org/es turismo@sierradegata.es –––––––––––– Oficina Comarcal de Turismo Plaza Mayor, 1 bajo. 10892 San Martín de Trevejo www.sierradegata.es turismo@sierradegata.es

MONTEHERMOSO Plaza de la Constitución s/n 10810 Montehermoso Tfno. 927 43 06 72 Fax 927 67 50 03 oficina@turismomontehermoso.e.telefonica.net MONTIJO Av. de la Estación, s/n 06480 Montijo Tfno. 924 45 90 45 Fax 924 45 35 03 (Ayto) oitmontijo@dip-badajoz.es MORALEJA Avda. Pureza Canelo, s/n 10840 Moraleja Tfno. y Fax 927 14 70 88 www.sierradegata.org turismo@moraleja.es

MDAD. DEL VALLE DEL JERTE Paraje de Peñas Alba, s/n 10610 Cabezuela del Valle Tfno. 927 47 25 58 Fax 927 47 25 58 www.turismovalledeljerte.com informacion@turismovalledeljerte.com

NAVALMORAL DE LA MATA Antonio Concha, 91 10300 Navalmoral de la Mata Tfno. 927 53 23 28 Fax 927 53 53 60 turis-moral@terra.es

MEDELLÍN Plaza Hernán Cortés, 3 06411 Medellín Tfno. y Fax: 924 82 24 38 www.medellin.es otmedellin@terra.es

OLIVENZA Plaza de España, s/n 06100 Olivenza Tfno. y Fax 924 49 01 51 www.olivenzavirtual.com omictj@arrakis.es

MÉRIDA (Oficina Municipal) C/ Santa Eulalia, 64 06800 Mérida Tfno.: 924 33 07 22 MONESTERIO Paseo de Extremadura, 205 Izq. 06260 Monesterio Tfno. 924 51 67 37 Fax 924 51 60 61 www.monesterio.es oitmonesterio@gmail.com

PLASENCIA (Oficina Municipal) Plaza de Sta. Clara, s/n Tfno.: 927 42 38 43 Fax: 927 42 55 94 www.plasencia.com

MONTÁNCHEZ Plaza de España, 1 10170 Montánchez Tfno. 927 38 07 63 Fax 927 38 07 63 www.villademontanchez.com turismontanchez@terra.es

TALARRUBIAS Centro de Ocio Puerto Peña Ctra. Peloche, km. 1 06640 Pantano de Puerto Peña Tfno.: 924 63 01 00 www.talarrubias.net infotalarrubias@terra.es 187

TORREJÓN EL RUBIO Madroño, 1 10694 Torrejón El Rubio Tfno. 927 45 52 92 Fax 927 45 52 34 oittorrejon@yahoo.es

VILLAFRANCA DE LOS BARROS Ctra. N-630, Km. 664,50 06220 Villafranca de los Barros Tfno y Fax 924 52 08 35 www.villafrancadelosbarros.es turismo@villafranca.dip-badajoz.es

TRUJILLO Plaza Mayor, s/n 10200 Trujillo Tfnos. 927 32 26 77 927 65 90 39 Fax 927 65 91 40 www.ayto-trujillo.com ofitur@ayto-trujillo.com

VILLANUEVA DE LA SERENA Plaza de España, 1 (Ayto.) 06700 Villanueva de la Serena Tfno. 924 84 60 10 Fax 924 84 35 29 www.villanuevadelaserena.es oficinaturismo@villanuevadelaserena.es VILLANUEVA DE LA VERA Avda. de la Vera, s/n 10470 Villanueva de la Vera Tfno. 927 56 70 31 www.aytovillanueva@mixmail.com ofiturvillanueva@wanadoo.es

VALENCIA DE ALCÁNTARA Hernán Cortes, s/n 10500 Valencia de Alcántara Tfno. 927 58 21 84 Fax 927 58 21 84 www.valenciadealcantara.net turismo@valenciadealcantara.net

ZAFRA Plaza de España, 8 B 06300 Zafra Tfno. 924 55 10 36 Fax 924 55 10 36 www.zafraturismo.com turismo@ayto-zafra.com

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OTHER PUBLICATIONS OF TURISM' S HEADQUARTER GENERAL GUIDES Guía Turística de Extremadura Guía Profesional de Extremadura Guía de Alojamiento Rural Guía de Campings y Bungalows Guía Vía de la Plata Guía de Turismo Enológico Guía de Límite Visual Guía del Caminante Mapa Turístico de Extremadura Mapa de Turismo Ornitológico Mapa de la Vía Verde Mapa de Naturaleza Activa Mapa de la Vía de la Plata Mapa del Caminante Tríptico de Cuevas Turísticas Tríptico de la Vía Verde

TERRITORIAL GUIDES I- Sierra de Gata / Hurdes / Cáparra II- Valle del Ambroz / Valle del Jerte / La Vera III- Plasencia / Monfragüe / Campo Arañuelo IV- Villuercas / Jara / Ibores V- Cáceres / Trujillo-Miajadas / Montánchez-Tamuja VI- Sierra de San Pedro-Los Baldíos / Tajo-Salor-Almonte / Valle del Alagón VII- La Siberia / La Serena / Vegas Altas del Guadiana VIII- Campiña Sur / Tentudía / Jerez-Sierra Suroeste IX- Comarca de Olivenza / Badajoz / Comarca de Lácara / Mérida X- Sierra Grande-Tierra de Barros / Zafra-Río Bodión

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LOCAL GUIDES Badajoz - Cáceres - Mérida - Plasencia - Zafra - Trujillo - Guadalupe - Coria Valencia de Alcántara - Jerez de los Caballeros - Olivenza - Llerena THEMATIC GUIDES 1- Guía de Rutas Histórico-Artísticas 2- Guía de Ecoturismo 3- Guía de Senderos Turísticos 4- Guía de Museos y Colecciones 5- Guía de Balnearios 6- Guía de Rutas Gastronómicas 7- Guía de Fiestas de Interés Turístico 8- Guía de Fines de Semana por Extremadura 9- Guía de Naturaleza Activa 10- Guía de Yacimientos Arqueológicos

© JUNTA DE EXTREMADURA Consejería de Cultura y Turismo General Co-ordination: Dirección General de Turismo Photographs: Julián Blasco Fuerte / Foto-Video Patón / Domigo Rivera (fauna) Desing: Pepe Melara Pre-Printing: XXI Estudio Gráfico Printing: Gráficas Romero Legal Deposit: BA- 14 - 2002