With the arrival of autumn, a special atmosphere settles in the heart of the province of Cáceres. The forests and trails of the Valle del Ambroz come alive with vibrant colors and fresh aromas, attracting not only those who love long walks, but also culinary enthusiasts in search of new flavors. From September to November, the local woods are literally carpeted with mushrooms, offering every visitor the chance to try their hand at foraging.
Here, you can find true treasures: saffron milk caps, porcini mushrooms, chanterelles, and even rare fungi highly prized by local chefs. The pine forests of the Montes de Granadilla are especially renowned — saffron milk caps are especially abundant here. In the oak groves and on pastures, porcini mushrooms appear in autumn and are considered a real delicacy.
The Valle del Ambroz is much more than a place for mushroom picking. In towns like Baños de Montemayor, Hervás, and Aldeanueva del Camino, traditions of woodworking and chestnut cultivation are still very much alive. These days, the passion for mushrooms has joined these local pursuits, making the region especially appealing to lovers of seasonal cuisine and unspoiled nature.
Mushroom hunting in Ambros is more than just a pastime. Every year, the “Magical Autumn” (Otoño Mágico) takes place here—a series of events dedicated to mushrooms and everything related to them. Locals and visitors join workshops, forest excursions, and tastings where they learn to distinguish edible varieties from dangerous lookalikes. During this time, village hotels and restaurants serve dishes where mushrooms take center stage, and the local cuisine reveals itself in a whole new way.
The Ambros Valley is the perfect destination for those seeking not only beautiful landscapes but also new flavors. Here, autumn turns into a real celebration for anyone who loves nature and gastronomy.
