Iruelas Valley Nature Reserve

Located in the easternmost part of the Sierra de Gredos range in the Castile-León region, this area contains several mountain streams such as the Iruelas, and a beautiful forest harbouring a wide variety of species. Of particular interest in its flora are the ancient specimens of different species of black pine; and in its fauna, the typical black vulture of Castile-León and the Iberian imperial eagle. At the edges of this nature reserve, declared a Special Protection Area (SPA) for birds, is the summit of the Cerro de la Escusa, at a height of 1,950 metres, and the Burguillo reservoir. The natural viewing point of the Puerto de Casillas pass also offers a spectacular view over the whole valley. This area is home to the villages of Las Cruceras and La Rinconada, and is ideal for enjoying a whole range of activities from nautical sports and riding to hiking, cycling and guided routes in off-road vehicles. Or else visitors can explore the old town (on the banks of the Burguillo reservoir), today converted into a rural tourism centre, which was once home to the workers in the traditional resin and wood factories.