Rosarito Reservoir, embalse de España
The Rosarito Reservoir is a large body of water between the provinces of Avila and Toledo that holds water from the river Tietar behind a stone and earth embankment. The lake spreads across a wide area with calm water, lined by trees and bushes along its shores.
The dam project began in the late 1930s and took about twenty years to complete, with local workers and prisoners contributing to its construction. The facility was designed to provide water for farming and drinking while eventually becoming an electricity source for nearby communities.
The reservoir shapes the daily life of surrounding villages, where people follow seasonal rhythms tied to water levels and agricultural cycles. Local communities have integrated this waterway into their routines for generations, using it for fishing and farming activities.
The lake is best reached by car via rural roads from Talavera de la Reina or from Avila, as public transportation is infrequent in the area. A camping area and boat dock are available along the shore for visitors wanting to walk or enjoy the landscape views.
During winter months, thousands of migratory birds, especially gray cranes, stop at this reservoir to rest on their long journeys between continents. Observers have documented around 7000 birds finding shelter here during peak seasons.
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