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