Best lakes around Monterrubio De La Serena are primarily large reservoirs, notably the Embalse de la Serena and Embalse del Zújar, which offer extensive aquatic environments. These man-made bodies of water are located in Extremadura, Spain, and are formed by dams on the Zújar river. The Embalse de la Serena is the second-largest reservoir on the Iberian Peninsula and the third largest in Europe by capacity, covering 14,000 hectares. The area is also part of the La Siberia Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its ecological importance.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
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Cerro Masatrigo is a hill located in the municipality of Esparragosa de Lares. This hill is known for its almost perfect conical shape, which has earned it the nickname "the magic mountain." It rises 501 meters above sea level and 161 meters above the surrounding terrain. After the construction of the La Serena Dam, Cerro Masatrigo became a peninsula surrounded by the waters of the reservoir.
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The La Serena Dam, located in the province of Badajoz (Extremadura), is one of the most impressive hydraulic infrastructures in Europe. Location: Zújar River, in the region of La Serena It is part of the La Siberia Biosphere Reserve. It houses inland islands such as Cerro Masatrigo, considered a "magic mountain" for its perfect conical shape. A SPA (Special Protection Area for Birds), ideal for watching aquatic birds and birds of prey.
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The La Serena reservoir is located in the province of Badajoz on the Zújar river. This reservoir is the second largest body of water in the Iberian Peninsula (after the Alqueva reservoir in Portugal), and one of the largest in Europe.
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The Serena Reservoir is one of the largest reservoirs in Badajoz and where a road crosses it, skirting a mountain called Masatrigo. This is a curious passage through the swamp but beautiful for the views it offers.
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Don't forget enough water if you go in summer.
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The main aquatic environments are the Embalse de la Serena and the Embalse del Zújar. These are large, man-made reservoirs formed by dams on the Zújar river, offering extensive lake-like experiences.
The Embalse de la Serena is notable for its immense size, being the second-largest reservoir on the Iberian Peninsula and the third largest in Europe by capacity. It covers 14,000 hectares and is part of the La Siberia Biosphere Reserve. It also features the distinctive conical island of Cerro Masatrigo.
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. The View of Cerro Masatrigo from Mirador Celeste de Galizuela offers impressive vistas of Cerro Masatrigo and the Embalse de la Serena, and is known for shining at night. The road skirting Masatrigo Mountain and La Serena Reservoir also provides beautiful views.
Both the Embalse de la Serena and Embalse del Zújar are ideal for a variety of water activities. You can enjoy bathing, sailing, canoeing, and paddle surfing. The Embalse del Zújar, in particular, has good tourist infrastructure including natural swimming pools and jetties.
Absolutely. Both the Embalse de la Serena and Embalse del Zújar are renowned fishing destinations. Anglers can find a rich variety of species, including large pike, black bass, barbel, carp, and catfish.
The area is part of the La Siberia Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its ecological significance. Both reservoirs are also Special Protection Areas for Birds (ZEPA), making them crucial habitats for thousands of birds, especially during winter months. You can observe various duck species and birds of prey.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For example, the Cerro Masatrigo Botanical Trail (SL-BA 198) is a popular option. Other trails include the Mirador Celeste de Galizuela from Puebla de Alcocer and the Benquerencia Castle Trail. You can find more details on hiking routes around Monterrubio De La Serena.
Beyond hiking, the region offers excellent opportunities for cycling. You can explore MTB Trails around Monterrubio De La Serena, such as the Puebla de Alcocer to Cerro Masatrigo loop, or enjoy Road Cycling Routes like the Monterrubio de la Serena from Bellacázar circular route.
Cerro Masatrigo is a unique inland island within the Embalse de la Serena, known for its distinctive, perfectly conical shape. It's often referred to as a 'magic mountain' and is a prominent landmark, offering picturesque landscapes, especially when viewed from the surrounding roads or viewpoints.
Yes, the La Serena Dam is an impressive engineering feat. Inaugurated in 1990, it is 580 meters long and 91 meters high, making it one of the most significant hydraulic infrastructures in Europe. It's also part of the La Siberia Biosphere Reserve.
The reservoirs offer activities year-round, but spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and birdwatching due to milder temperatures. Summer is perfect for water sports and bathing, though it can be quite warm. Winter is excellent for observing aquatic birds.
Yes, the area around Embalse del Zújar has developed infrastructure for active tourism. You can find companies offering activities like canoeing, sailing, and paddle surfing. The 'Isla del Zújar' complex specifically provides adventure activities such as zip-lining and pedal boats.


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