The best family-friendly hikes and walks 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 **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.

Recommended place to visit in autumn and spring

A very beautiful walk through pines, yews and birches and with this spectacular waterfall.

The Angostura Bridge is one of the oldest and most charming bridges in the Sierra de Madrid. It is located right on a high and narrow area of the Lozoya River, where the current is quite strong. This hiking route is perfect for families and is suitable for all ages. You can travel it in a circular way, going along one side of the Angostura and returning on the other, or do it as a round trip along the forest track. In total, it is approximately 7 km round trip. During the route, you will be able to see the Pradillo Waterfall, which is the most spectacular waterfall in the area and the most important in the course of the Lozoya. The best times to do this walk are spring (time of thaw) or after autumn rains, when there is more water in the riverbed. It is also beautiful in winter, with the snow, although you should come prepared for the intense cold. Much of the route will be accompanied by the Lozoya or Angostura river. I hope you enjoy this route! 😊

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