Extremadura Guide Eng 2016

T HE M ONFRAGÜE N ATIONAL P ARK

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LOCATION The Monfragüe National Park takes up an area of 17852 hectares and its boundaries coincide with those of the Special Protection Area which has the same name. This protected area spreads out from both sides of the Tajo riv- er, with the mouth and a valuable stretch of the Tiétar riv- er being included. With a privileged location, it borders on the South of the natural region of Campo Arañuelo. The mountain ranges of this area form an arch which is the backbone of the union between Las Villuercas and the mountains which surround the fertile lowland of the Alagón River, thus acting as an ecological corridor. Any visit to Monfragüe must be initiated in the Visitor Centre, where we can gather information about routes, itineraries and activities as well as useful and accurate information. As regards numerous groups of visitors, it is recom- mendable to previously make an appointment by calling the National Park’s information number and pointing out the type of activity to be carried out. Due to the importance of the species that exist in the area and their sensitivity to nuisance, visitors cannot take routes or itineraries other than those indicated by the State Environment Office. Besides, camping is not allowed in this area. In fact, there is a camping site near Villareal, by the Cáceres-Trujillo road. Nonetheless, the stay at the huts in Villareal is only for those groups which are to carry out an environmental education project after applying for it to the National Park’s Management. It is recommendable to visit it in spring, autumn and winter. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITS

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Declared Nature Reserve in 1979, it was the first pro- tected area. This urgent declaration was motivated by the serious threats that, at that time, meant a great danger for the place which was already regarded as one of the most valuable enclaves in the Iberian Peninsula. The construction of large dams in the Tajo and Tiétar rivers, with the subsequent destruction of all the plant life of their groves and their banks, as well as the massive reforestations with eucalypts in the 70s, threatened the conservation of the main protecting area for the various endangered species and one of the most well-preserved area of Mediterranean flora.

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