Monte del Pilar, Mediterranean forest in Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain.
Monte del Pilar is a Mediterranean forest covering around 800 hectares across three municipalities, with stone pines, holm oaks, and retama bushes growing throughout. Multiple entry points allow visitors to access the woodland from different nearby areas.
The forest was originally connected to a larger protected area but became separated during the late 20th century when the A-6 highway and housing developments were built nearby. This infrastructure fragmented what was once a continuous natural region.
Local people and visitors use the forest trails to escape the city and spend time outdoors, making it a valued green space where urban residents can connect with nature. The woodland serves as a refuge from surrounding neighborhoods.
The woodland spans three municipalities with several entry points, making it easy to access from different surrounding areas. Visitors can choose the most convenient starting point depending on where they are coming from.
The forest provides habitat for various bird species including green woodpeckers and great spotted woodpeckers, which visitors may spot during their visits. This diversity shows that the woodland remains important for wildlife despite its proximity to urban areas.
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