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Cerro Gimeo - Monfragüe NP

Extremadura  >  Spain

Rocky mountain top, possibly one of the best places on earth to see the massive Eurasian Black Vulture, of which there are several pairs at this site.

Added* by Mats van Kasteren
Most recent update 16 January 2024

Description

This mountain top offers beautiful views of the Monfrague National park, including the Castillo de Monfrague and the famous Salto del Gitano. Above all this site is very reliable for all of the large soaring birds of the National park, especially Eurasian Black Vulture , Black Stork and the ever elusive Bonelli's Eagle may also be seen here.

Details

Access

This viewpoint is the end-goal of the green walking trail, starting in Villareal de san Carlos. The trail is 7,7 km long (return walk) and takes you through one of the best preserved stretches of Mediterranean forest on the planet. The forest holds all of the typical flora and fauna of this ecosystem, including its reptiles and mammals. The climb to the top is rather steep, and, in Summer, hot and dry.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Mountain , Canyon/cliff , River , Valley , Scattered trees and bushes

Conditions

Mountainous , No shadow , Rocky , Hilly , Dry , Dusty

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring

Route

Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Strenuous

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra info

This mountain top is the prime site for seeing the symbol of the National park, Europe's largest raptor: the Eurasian Black Vulture, of which several pairs breed in the direct vicinity of the mountain. One of these nests can be seen on the slope just east of the mountain (scan the cork- and holm oaks with your binoculairs). The vultures can also often be seen perched in one of the pines northwest of the mountain.

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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