The Mountain Range

The Sierra de Montánchez y Tamuja region has an ecosystem that is unique in the world, the dehesa. It is made up of a large number of holm oaks and cork oaks that provide the species that live there with the food they need to grow. This environment will make you enjoy an exceptional landscape away from the noise and in total contact with nature, making it an idyllic place for you to do different outdoor activities.

The holm oak is the most emblematic tree of the dehesa. If you take a walk through Zarza de Montánchez you will find one of the wonders of the region, the holm oak ‘La Terrona’, magnificent and impressive, it is the longest-lived holm oak known in the world. Its majestic appearance makes it a true monument of nature. According to experts, it is approximately 800 years old. In spite of this, the holm oak is still in excellent condition. It is therefore a must-see, a must-see.

This region plays an important role in the feeding of the Iberian pigs used for the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) ‘Dehesa de Extremadura’ and is considered to be one of the areas where Iberian ham is the oldest and most traditional. We therefore recommend that you do not leave the region without trying this gourmet product which is considered to be the flagship of our gastronomy.

If you want to make the most of a unique experience in the dehesa, we recommend you see ‘La Berrea’, in the foothills of the Sierra de San Pedro. One of the most spectacular events that can be seen in nature, where the rutting males transmit their characteristic bellowing to attract the attention of females of reproductive age, and face off against other deer to see which one is the strongest. The winner will be the one entitled to breed. But you will have to wait until mid-September (with the first rains and lower temperatures) to enjoy this spectacle.

Another event not to be missed is ‘La montanera’. Only during the month of October and until mid-December the holm oaks and cork oaks that are found in the dehesa are filled with acorns and pasture, leaving a beautiful natural landscape. At this time, the pigs take advantage of these resources to feed, grow and achieve the necessary weight before slaughter. We recommend you not to miss this event.