Just over an hour’s drive from the bustling heart of the Spanish capital, hidden in the Sierra del Rincón mountains, lies a true natural treasure. This is the Montejo de la Sierra forest, one of the southernmost beech forests in Europe. Its very existence at this latitude is an anomaly, made possible by exceptional weather conditions that create a cool and humid enclave in the midst of a Mediterranean climate. Each autumn, thousands of visitors flock here to witness the transformation of this natural oasis as its leaves turn every shade of gold, crimson, and copper.
From medieval communal land to world heritage site
The history of this place dates back to 1460, when residents of neighboring villages jointly purchased these lands. For centuries, the grove faithfully served the local people: they grazed livestock, gathered firewood, and collected forest products. Over time, however, the ecological value of this small area—just 250 hectares—became increasingly apparent. In 1974, it was designated a Natural Site of National Interest. The next milestone came in 2005, when the entire Sierra del Rincón was included in the UNESCO network of biosphere reserves. International recognition peaked in 2017, when it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. These accolades are more than mere titles—they have made the forest a symbol of environmental stewardship and a model for sustainable tourism.
How to Enter the Enchanted Forest: Rules and Routes
The growing popularity of the site led the authorities to introduce strict visitor controls as early as 1989 to protect the fragile ecosystem from being trampled. Admission to the grove is completely free, but entry is only possible with prior registration. The number of permits is tightly limited, so during the peak season—October and November—you should book your visit well in advance. All permits are processed through the Biosphere Reserve Information Center, located in the town of Montejo de la Sierra. Visitors can choose from several hiking trails. The simplest and most popular is the trail that runs along the Jarama River. This almost flat, three-kilometer route is ideal for walks with children, allowing you to fully enjoy the silence, the rustling of leaves, and the murmur of water. For more experienced hikers, there is a trail leading to an observation deck. It climbs the hillside, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the entire river valley and the endless landscapes of the Castilian plateau.
Living Monuments and Invisible Inhabitants
While walking along the trails, it’s impossible not to notice the giant trees—true living sculptures. Some are so renowned they’ve been given names and are listed in the catalog of outstanding trees of the capital region. Among them are the beech tree known as “Elephant Feet” with its massive base, “The Kiss,” whose trunks are intertwined in an embrace, and “The Rock,” which is fused with a huge boulder. These giants have witnessed centuries go by. The forest is also home to many animals. With luck and silence, you might spot roe deer, wild boar, or traces of otters at the river. Birds of prey soar overhead, including the majestic owl and eagles. Local legends say that deep in the forest, woodland spirits, gnomes, and fairies hide. These stories, passed down from generation to generation, add an element of magic to the walk—especially for younger visitors, who peer curiously into the shadows beneath the trees, hoping to catch a glimpse of something wondrous.
This woodland is a fragile ecosystem that requires careful stewardship. Regional authorities, together with the municipality of Montejo de la Sierra, regularly organize educational programs and conservation initiatives. Their goal is to preserve this place for future generations while allowing people to responsibly enjoy its beauty. Visiting during the golden season offers an immersion in one of Spain’s most picturesque landscapes, where nature, history, and local traditions are woven together under unique climatic conditions that continue to amaze all who fall under the spell of these trails.
