The Castañar del Tiemblo, a centuries-old chestnut forest with specimens over 500 years old
The Castañar del Tiemblo is a centuries-old chestnut forest spreading between the Sierra de Gredos and the Tiétar Valley, in Ávila. With specimens over 500 years old, this magical place combines twisted trunks, golden autumn leaves, and soft clearings where moss and ferns embrace the earth.
Where and how is it located?
Located 6 km south of El Tiemblo, accessible via the AV-941 road. The forest is part of the Gredos Biosphere Reserve and covers about 33 hectares of gentle slopes dotted with granite rocks.
Why is the Castañar famous?
Because it shelters the “Grandfather Chestnut”, a millenary specimen with a perimeter over 8 m, and because its wild chestnut populations offer a unique chromatic spectacle in autumn.
When is the best time to visit?
- Autumn (October-November): leaves turn yellow, orange, and red.
- Spring (April-May): intense green sprouts and butterflies bloom.
- Avoid deep winter and very rainy summer for more comfort.
What trails and routes are available?
- Castañar Trail: 4 km circular route (1.5 h), marked with green posts.
- Monumental Chestnut Path: 2 km round trip to “The Grandfather”.
- Corneja River Route: extends the trail crossing wetlands and wooden bridges.
What flora and fauna accompany the chestnuts?
- Plants: ferns, hollies, strawberry trees, and heathers.
- Animals: deer, wild boars, martens, bats in nearby caves, and birds like the great spotted woodpecker and goldcrest.
- Fungi: boletus and saffron milk caps after autumn rains.
How to visit and recommendations?
- Wear hiking boots and bring water; the ground can be slippery in autumn.
- Do not collect chestnuts from protected areas without permission; authorized collection days exist.
- Respect signs and trails to preserve the reserve.
- Picnic areas are available in the main parking lot.
In short, the Castañar del Tiemblo is a living museum of nature where time has sculpted millenary trunks and shaped a landscape that embraces the soul: an ideal plan for families, photographers, and lovers of pure forests.
How to get there
Decimal: 40.358611°, -4.511944°
DMS: 40°21'31" N, 4°30'43" O
