Discover the Magic of “El Hosquillo” in the Serranía de Cuenca

Exploring the Fauna and Natural Beauty of the Serranía de Cuenca Natural Park

In the heart of the Serranía de Cuenca Natural Park is a corner of astonishing beauty and biodiversity: El Hosquillo. This valley is a refuge for numerous species of local wildlife and offers visitors the opportunity to connect with nature in its most pristine form.

Located in the upper basin of the Escabas River, this center is a true natural treasure to which access from the forest road that connects Las Majadas with Poyatos and Vega del Codorno.

A History of Conservation and Biodiversity

The history of "El Hosquillo" dates back to 1964, when it was created as an Experimental Hunting Park. Its main function was serve as a hunting farm to repopulate hunting areas with species such as deer, fallow deer, ibex, roe deer, mouflon and wild boar. However, As of July 1996, it became dependent on the Ministry of the Environment and Rural Development of the Community Board of Castilla-La Mancha abandoning this use. The name "El Hosquillo" comes from its rugged and difficult-to-access terrain, covered by dense vegetation.

A Journey to Biodiversity

The visit to the Interpretation Center on the Park's biodiversity It allows visitors to discover the richness of the environments and biodiversity it houses. It begins with an audiovisual and continues in various rooms dedicated to knowledge of flora and vegetation, geomorphology and landscape, as well as fauna. During the visit, you can listen to the sounds of the animals that live in the park and explore a large number of photographs of the native fauna and flora, accompanied by interactive models, light and information panels, and interactive modules in the different rooms.

In it Hunting Museum, visitors can identify and learn about the most representative mammal species of the mountains. There is an area dedicated to the representation of scenes of game species and another dedicated to the representation of scenes of protected or endangered species.

Exploring the Diversity of “El Hosquillo”

The Hosquillo covers an area of 910 hectares, property of the Hon. Cuenca City Council, and houses various ecosystems. Since the high cliffs surrounding the valley, where important species of protected birds of prey nest, such as the golden eagle, the peregrine falcon, the griffon vulture and the eagle owl, to the lush pine forests of the Serranía, and the Escabas and Las Truchas rivers, where the common trout and The Otter.

Vegetation also plays a crucial role in El Hosquillo, housing species such as Scots pine, black pine, gall oak, boxwood, gorse, yew, holly, willow, poplar, hazel, aspen. and more. Access to this natural paradise is through guided tours, with a maximum of 50 people per shift for educational centers and associations on weekdays, and private visits on weekends.

Main attractives

El Hosquillo is a unique natural park where species are raised for sustainable hunting, allowing visitors to observe bears, wolves, mountain goats, deer, fallow deer, roe deer and wild boars in their surroundings. In addition, it is possible to walk through its valley, a landscape of incredible beauty, where birds of prey and otters coexist, among pine forests and the banks of the Escabas and De las Truchas rivers. This is a perfect place to visit with the family, where both children and adults can enjoy environmental activities and appreciate wildlife in their natural habitat.

What You Can See in “El Hosquillo”

In El Hosquillo, they await you signposted routes with strategically located viewpoints to observe the different ecosystems and animals in freedom. In the skies, you will be able to contemplate majestic specimens of golden eagle, peregrine falcon, griffon vulture and eagle owl. In addition, you will have the opportunity to spot bears, trout in the rivers and the charming otters that live on the banks.

Points of Interest in the Park

Your visit to El Hosquillo will not be complete without exploring its points of interest. The Hunting Pavilion, the Interpretation Center and El Rincón del Buitre are essential places. In Rincón del Buitre, a naturally enclosed space, you can see the bears in an environment that simulates their habitat. At the Interpretation Center, you will discover stuffed specimens of wolves, foxes, fallow deer, roe deer and wild boar.

How to Visit El Hosquillo

To enjoy this unique experience in nature, it is essential to make a prior reservation. You can make your reservation online through the official website: www.parqueelhosquillo.com.

• During the months of August and September, visits take place from Thursday to Sunday.
• Located 45 kilometers from Cuenca and accessible via the N-320, arriving at “El Hosquillo” is an experience in itself, as you will immerse yourself in the beauty of the Serranía. Visits are carried out in guided groups and have a limit of 70 people per shift. It is essential to have a confirmed reservation to access the park.
• The visit lasts approximately three hours and is carried out by private car from the entrance to the park. Although much of the route is on foot, the level of difficulty is low, making it an ideal activity for families with children. If you plan a group visit, it is advisable to arrange it at least 15 days in advance.

Rules of Behavior

• During the visit, remain in the vehicle to the extent indicated by the Environmental Agent.
• Always follow the recommendations of the Environmental Agent or the Monitor.
• Littering or lighting fires in the park is strictly prohibited.
• Respect the vegetation and fauna of the place.
• Try to maintain silence to facilitate wildlife viewing.
  El Hosquillo is a wildlife sanctuary and a window to the natural beauty of the Serranía de Cuenca. Each visit is an opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the importance of biodiversity conservation. Don't forget your camera and get ready for an unforgettable experience in this natural paradise!