Pinilla Reservoir, embalse en el río Lozoya, península ibérica
Pinilla Reservoir is a large body of water in the Community of Madrid built to store water for nearby towns and farmland irrigation. Walking paths line its edges, often shaded by trees and easy to follow, while ducks and other waterfowl float on the surface or rest along the banks.
The reservoir was opened more than fifty years ago to store water from the Lozoya River for supplying towns and irrigation needs. Its construction transformed the valley by flooding areas that previously held houses and farmland, reshaping the landscape for a new water storage system.
The reservoir is valued by locals as an important part of their natural surroundings. Regular visitors come to walk, picnic, or watch birds here, reflecting how the community integrates these outdoor spaces into their daily routines.
The reservoir is accessible year-round with easy, shaded trails for walking and open views of the water and surrounding land. The best conditions for visiting are early mornings or weekdays when the area is quieter and the natural setting feels less crowded.
The site is part of a protected wetland system used by migrating birds as an important stopping point, particularly during seasons when flocks of ducks and waterfowl arrive. It demonstrates how water storage infrastructure can preserve valuable habitats for wildlife while serving practical purposes for the region.
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