Las Quilamas, Nature reserve in Sierra de Francia, Spain
Las Quilamas is a nature reserve in the Sierra de Francia with deep valleys, steep mountains, and multiple rivers crossing the terrain. The area spans extensive highlands with varied vegetation and offers different landscapes depending on elevation and exposure to sun and wind.
The protected area was established in 1991 under Castilla y León environmental law to safeguard bird populations and natural habitats. Centuries of herding and farming by local communities shaped the landscape into its current form.
The region is home to small villages whose names reflect ancient settlement patterns, and the inhabitants maintain traditional ways of living closely tied to the land. Local communities practice sustainable land use that shapes how the landscape looks today.
Access typically begins from small villages, with various hiking routes starting in different directions from each settlement. Sturdy footwear and water are essential, as trails climb through mountain terrain where shaded rest spots are rare.
The area supports one of the largest black vulture colonies in Castilla y León, birds that sometimes wheel overhead in enormous flocks above the valleys. Visitors may also spot black storks and peregrine falcons nesting on the cliff faces.
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