The best walks and hikes around Lozoya Somosierra

The Hervidero Waterfall is a double waterfall on the Guadalix River, nestled in a rocky canyon and surrounded by riverside vegetation. It can be reached via a flat and easy 7 km (round trip) route starting from San Agustín del Guadalix, ideal for family hikes.

This large pine forest is located within the municipality of Canencia and is easily accessible via forest tracks from the Canencia Pass, coming from the south (Miraflores de la Sierra and Madrid) or from the north (Canencia in the Lozoya Valley). It can also be reached via a longer approach from the M-611 road through the Collado del Hontanar pass (1,731 m).

The waterfall is tall and very beautiful; it's best visited after a period of heavy rain or when there's snow in the area. It's located within the municipality of Canencia and is easily accessible via forest tracks from the Canencia Pass, coming from the south (Miraflores de la Sierra and Madrid) or from the north (Canencia in the Lozoya Valley). A longer approach is also possible from the M-611 via the Collado del Hontanar pass (1,731 m). If you approach the waterfall from its eastern side, be very careful of slipping, as it could be fatal. The ground is often wet and even icy in autumn and winter.

The traverse between Peñalara and Claveles, or vice versa, requires skill and good footwear. Wet rock, and especially snow or ice, can make it much more difficult. Roped up is advisable in the worst conditions.

San San Pedro Hill

The **Centennial Yew of Canencia** is a unique tree of great botanical and landscape value in the Sierra de Guadarrama, in the Community of Madrid. It is not just a specimen, but part of a small population of yews that has survived in an exceptional setting, the Canencia Birch Forest. ### Characteristics and Location * **Species:** *Taxus baccata* (common yew). * **Age:** The most notable specimen is estimated to be between **400 and 500 years old**. Its longevity is one of the most fascinating characteristics of this species. * **Dimensions:** It has a trunk of considerable girth (around 4.10 meters) and a wide crown about 15 meters in diameter, which demonstrates its advanced age and health. * **Location:** It is located in the **Canencia Birch Forest** area, very close to the Canencia Pass. It is often included in the popular hiking trail known as "The Birch Forest Path" or the "Mojonavalle Waterfall Path." It is located near the Sestil del Maíllo stream. * **Environment:** The yew coexists with other unique species such as birch, holly, and Scots pines. This humid and protected microclimate has allowed the survival of these trees, which are relics of colder, wetter times. ### Importance and Uniqueness * **Botanical Value:** Yews are extremely slow-growing trees and are considered almost immortal. In Spain, they are a protected species, and finding such ancient specimens is a rarity. * **Landscape Value:** The Canencia yew stands out for its majestic appearance in the midst of a very picturesque forest, attracting numerous hikers and nature lovers. * **History and legend:** Like many ancient yew trees, it is steeped in legend. In many European cultures, they were considered sacred trees for their longevity and the toxicity of their parts (except for the pulp of their fruit). ### Access and routes To visit the yew, the most common route is the **Birch Forest Path**, which starts from the Canencia Pass itself. The path is signposted. You walk along a forest track to a detour that leads directly to the Chorrera de Mojonavalle, and a little further on, you will find the yew tree. Despite its age, the tree is increasingly visible and accessible, but it is essential to be respectful and not damage its surroundings to preserve this natural monument.

Laguna Grande de Peñalara is the largest glacial lagoon in the Sierra de Guadarrama, located at an altitude of 2,017 meters in the National Park. Origin: Glacier, formed about 40,000 years ago. Size: 5,779 m² in surface area and 4.8 m in maximum depth. Water: Crystal-clear, very pure, and cold, it remains frozen for about 4 months a year. Fauna: Home to the pygmy newt and the long-tailed salamander, and a refuge for migratory birds such as the Spanish imperial eagle and the black vulture. Flora: Surrounded by alpine vegetation. Importance: High-mountain ecosystem of great ecological value. Included in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance. Maximum protection zone within the National Park. Restrictions: Limited access in some areas for protection. * Swimming, camping outside of designated areas, and leaving trails are prohibited. * Specific regulations apply to pets and drones.

go around the lagoon.