The Iberian System that runs through the north of the province of Soria is a paradise of surprises, but it is in the Montes Claros mountain range where a very special uniqueness is preserved. The Garagüeta holly tree is the largest in the Iberian Peninsula and has extraordinary ecological value both for the number of specimens and their size.
Being a natural space populated only by holly trees, there is a theory that its origin may lie in the disappearance of oak and beech forests as they are species that it normally accompanies.
In its labyrinthine growth it forms galleries in which a large number of animals take refuge and in autumn, when the intense colors of the fruits explode, they easily find food.
In addition to the large number of reptiles, the Acebal de Garagüeta Nature Reserve is a magnificent habitat for many mammals such as deer, roe deer or weasels, among others, so it is not strange to see griffon vultures or golden eagles soaring in the skies.
The Acebal is reached by walking along a pleasant forest track, but first it is highly recommended to pay a visit to the Natural Reserve Park House in the town of Arévalo de la Sierra, installed in the old teachers' house.
In this reference center, a lot of information is provided about the natural space itself in terms of flora, fauna and geomorphology, as well as other interesting nearby holly forests such as the Dehesa de Oncala and its historical and present importance in these mountains. since there is evidence of its use by the Celtiberian peoples.
The room called "Memory Corner" pays tribute to illustrious figures of these lands, but does not forget the traditions, legends and uses linked to the forestry exploitation of holly. In this same space, reference is made to the Celtiberian legacy through important archaeological sites such as El Alto de la Cruz.
The top floor is dedicated to the illustrious figure of Mr. Julián Sanz del Río, to whom a well-deserved tribute is paid in an audiovisual. This space is shared with the recreation of an old school with its old desks and benches.
