Cerro Masatrigo Botanical Trail (SL-BA 198)

The trail is easily accessible as the EX-322 road encircles Cerro Masatrigo. You'll find parking areas along this road near the trailhead, making it convenient to start your hike.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it's located within a Natural Monument and a Special Protection Area for Birds, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

The best time to hike this trail is during spring or winter. Summers in Extremadura can be very hot with little shade, which can make hiking challenging. In spring and winter, the landscape is greener, water levels in the La Serena reservoir are higher, and the temperatures are much more pleasant for outdoor activities.

No, you do not need a permit, nor is there an entrance fee to hike Cerro Masatrigo. It was declared a Natural Monument in May 2023, recognizing its ecological and scenic importance, but access for hikers remains free.

The SL-BA 198 offers varied terrain depending on the route you choose. The low-difficulty circular path (Route A) around the middle of the slope has very low elevation changes. If you opt for the high-difficulty route (Route B) to the summit, expect a much steeper ascent with rocky areas, which can be hard on your calves.

The most striking feature is the almost perfectly conical, pyramid-like shape of Cerro Masatrigo itself, rising like an island from the La Serena reservoir. It's often called the "Magic Mountain." From the summit, you'll get 360-degree panoramic views of the reservoir and the surrounding regions. The area is also a Special Protection Area for Birds, so keep an eye out for diverse avian fauna.

The SL-BA 198 offers two main itineraries. The Low Difficulty / Low Unevenness Route (Route A) is a 2.4-kilometer circular path suitable for most fitness levels and easily accessible, making it a good option for beginners and families. The High Difficulty / High Unevenness Route (Route B) to the summit is much steeper and more challenging, better suited for experienced hikers.

Yes, a significant portion of this route (56%) overlaps with sections of the Camino del Condado de Belalcázar - Etapa 3.

Beyond its unique hiking experience, Cerro Masatrigo is famous for its distinctive geological formation, often resembling a heap of wheat. It's also known as the "Magic Mountain" and is encircled by the EX-322 road, creating what some call "the biggest and most beautiful roundabout in Spain." Since May 2023, it has been recognized as a Natural Monument of Extremadura.

Absolutely! The summit of Cerro Masatrigo offers spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the La Serena reservoir and the surrounding regions. There's even a "best bench in Extremadura" installed at the Cerro Masatrigo to encourage visitors to stop and enjoy the extensive horizon and profound silence.

Given the potential for heat and sun exposure, especially outside of winter, it's essential to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and appropriate footwear for varied terrain, including rocky sections if you plan to ascend to the summit. Binoculars are recommended for birdwatching, as the area is a Special Protection Area for Birds.