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Description
Area Recreativa El Picacho is a convenient spot from which to explore the birdlife of the Alcornocales. There are two places to park, one east of 150m the prominent white buildings of the Aula de la Naturaleza El Picacho and the other 280m to its north. In general, the second option is better as it's the starting point of the footpath up to El Picacho.
Much can be seen by simply wandering around the picnic site and scanning the skies but you also have the option of a short walk or, for the adventurous, a steep hike to one of the areas higher peaks (El Picacho). The peak itself usually has a large number of Gåsegrib sitting on its crags and, rarely, in winter Alpe-jernspurv but it's a steep climb.
The woodlands hold Bjergløvsanger, Iberisk Gransanger, Topmejse and many of the usual woodland species of the area. A pleasant circuit around a small shallow laguna (often dry) can be productive. Unfortunately, a vulture feeding station c1km east of the second parking spot (and slightly less from the first) is tucked away below a ridge but the birds it attracts - Gåsegrib, Ådselgrib, Sort Glente, Dværgørn and large numbers of Ravn - are often visible. Careful scanning of the skies may also be rewarded with views of Duehøg, Spurvehøg, Høgeørn and any migrant raptor.
Details
Access
The picnic site and the starting point for the walks is well signposted on the A 375 from Alcala de los Gazules to Ubrique.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , MountainConditions
Mountainous , RockyCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
SpringRoute
Narrow trailDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
About 10 km north of the picnic site on the road at Puerto de Galiz is a small 'venta' (restaurant) that has a very high reputation for its food.