The best traffic-free bike rides around Garganta De Los Montes

The Castle and Walls of Buitrago del Lozoya, one of the most important medieval sites in the Community of Madrid: The town has pre-Roman roots and was mentioned by Livy as a Celtiberian fortress (Litabrum). Muslim Fortification: Between the 8th and 11th centuries, the Muslims built the wall to protect the territory. Reconquest: Alfonso VI conquered it in 1085, and it passed into Christian hands. Current Castle: Built in the 15th century by the Mendoza family, during the reign of John II of Castile. Historical Uses: Noble residence, defensive stronghold, and setting for events such as the imprisonment of Juana la Beltraneja.

Prádena del Rincón is a charming village located in the Sierra Norte of Madrid, founded between the 11th and 12th centuries and historically linked to livestock farming. Strolling through its streets reveals traditional architecture surrounded by nature. Its monuments include the Romanesque-Mudejar church of Santo Domingo de Silos. The tranquility of the area and its rural trails invite you to a peaceful and contemplative getaway in the heart of the Sierra del Rincón. This is ideal for those seeking a genuine connection with nature and rural history, far from the hustle and bustle, with routes that allow you to explore ancient transhumance trails and enjoy the area's biodiversity.

The **Centennial Yew of Canencia** is a unique tree of great botanical and landscape value in the Sierra de Guadarrama, in the Community of Madrid. It is not just a specimen, but part of a small population of yews that has survived in an exceptional setting, the Canencia Birch Forest. ### Characteristics and Location * **Species:** *Taxus baccata* (common yew). * **Age:** The most notable specimen is estimated to be between **400 and 500 years old**. Its longevity is one of the most fascinating characteristics of this species. * **Dimensions:** It has a trunk of considerable girth (around 4.10 meters) and a wide crown about 15 meters in diameter, which demonstrates its advanced age and health. * **Location:** It is located in the **Canencia Birch Forest** area, very close to the Canencia Pass. It is often included in the popular hiking trail known as "The Birch Forest Path" or the "Mojonavalle Waterfall Path." It is located near the Sestil del Maíllo stream. * **Environment:** The yew coexists with other unique species such as birch, holly, and Scots pines. This humid and protected microclimate has allowed the survival of these trees, which are relics of colder, wetter times. ### Importance and Uniqueness * **Botanical Value:** Yews are extremely slow-growing trees and are considered almost immortal. In Spain, they are a protected species, and finding such ancient specimens is a rarity. * **Landscape Value:** The Canencia yew stands out for its majestic appearance in the midst of a very picturesque forest, attracting numerous hikers and nature lovers. * **History and legend:** Like many ancient yew trees, it is steeped in legend. In many European cultures, they were considered sacred trees for their longevity and the toxicity of their parts (except for the pulp of their fruit). ### Access and routes To visit the yew, the most common route is the **Birch Forest Path**, which starts from the Canencia Pass itself. The path is signposted. You walk along a forest track to a detour that leads directly to the Chorrera de Mojonavalle, and a little further on, you will find the yew tree. Despite its age, the tree is increasingly visible and accessible, but it is essential to be respectful and not damage its surroundings to preserve this natural monument.

coffee and pan con tomate

Fountain that you will find in the Puerto de Canencia.

Beautiful walled town located in the mountains north of Madrid.

Fresh water spring. Great source to fill up your bidons.

Port suitable for beginners who want to get in shape