ROCK-CLIMBING in the Sierra de Guadarrama national park is set to be banned until August as authorities scramble to safeguard the area’s wildlife during breeding season.
The new restrictions, imposed by officials from the Community of Madrid, ban climbing on certain routes in La Pedriza and passage through nearby access points until the end of July.Â
Various species of rock-dwelling birds are aimed to be protected with this measure during their breeding period.
Specifically, the restrictions are intended to prevent disturbance during the breeding season of species such as the golden eagle, the griffon vulture, the common kestrel and the peregrine falcon.
Their nests are found on cliffs and rock faces, popular with climbers.
In recent years, the amount of rock climbers has increased. The high concentration of visitors can affect the condition of the rocks and trails, impacting local wildlife.
Outside the restricted areas, climbing is still permitted.
Under the measure, information for visitors will be strengthened through signage at access points, car parks and climbing areas, as well as via the park’s visitor centres and checkpoints.
La Pedriza is one of Spain’s most striking natural landscapes and a favourite spot for hikers and climbers.
It’s famous for its surreal granite rock formations and is one of Europe’s largest granite massifs.
Click here to read more Nature News from The Olive Press.
