The best road cycling routes around Venturada

The historic center of Talamanca de Jarama is one of the most interesting medieval ensembles in the Community of Madrid, boasting a rich heritage and a history dating back to the Iron Age. It is associated with the ancient Roman city of Armántica and later became a fortified medina founded by Emir Muhammad I in 852 to protect the Jarama River route. Muslim period: It reached its peak as a military and cultural center, with walls and a Koranic school. Reconquest: In 1085, it fell into Christian hands and became an important commercial center under the Archbishopric of Toledo. Later centuries: It preserves Roman, Visigothic, Arab, and Christian traces, giving it a unique character.

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.

Fountain that you will find in the Puerto de Canencia.

Fresh water spring. Great source to fill up your bidons.

Beautiful village with fountains and bar

Port suitable for beginners who want to get in shape

Very cool water

The bike route from Fuente el Saz de Jarama to Talamanca de Jarama is a popular option for cyclists. The distance between Fuente el Saz and Talamanca is approximately 10 km.