Gabriel y Galán Reservoir
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Description
The Gabriel y Galán Reservoir is a large artificial body of water located in the north of the province of Cáceres, in Extremadura, formed by damming the Alagón River. Its total capacity is 924 hm³, and it covers an area of 4,683 hectares, making it the largest reservoir in the region. The water is used primarily for hydroelectric power generation, irrigating 38,400 hectares of land, and supplying drinking water to distant municipalities. The dam, a gravity dam constructed of vibrated concrete, was inaugurated in 1961 and is named in honor of the poet José María Gabriel y Galán, whose family donated most of the land now occupied by the reservoir. From nearby viewpoints, visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the reservoir and the surrounding mountain range, with rolling hills, pastures, holm oak groves, and olive groves that blend into its waters. The surrounding area features striking landscape contrasts, the result of the flooding of ancient valleys following the construction of the dam in the 1960s. The water is very clear most of the year, and the bottom of the reservoir consists mainly of slate and, to a lesser extent, granite in areas near the dam. The reservoir is part of the Granadilla Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and the Gabriel y Galán Reservoir Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA), both of which are included in the Natura 2000 Network. This area is home to a concentration of aquatic birdlife of international importance according to the Ramsar criteria. In addition to sport fishing—where species such as bleak, crayfish, perch, boga, and crucian carp predominate—visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, photography, and birdwatching. The best time to visit the reservoir is during spring and summer, when weather conditions are most favorable for water activities and birdwatching. The area is dotted with cultural landmarks, such as the historic Roman city of Cáparra with its spectacular entrance arch, and charming nearby villages like Granadilla, which has been designated a Historic Site.
How to get there
By car: The reservoir is located in the municipality of Guijo de Granadilla, in northern Cáceres. From the town of Granadilla, follow the road toward Guijo de Granadilla and continue until you reach the access points to the reservoir. The main roads connecting to the area are the A-66 and the EX-109, which provide easy access to nearby towns. Parking: There are no designated parking areas right next to the reservoir, but you can park in the areas leading to the overlooks and nearby trails. Parking is free and does not require a special permit. Trail: The reservoir is moderately accessible from the shore, with a number of paths leading to it, mainly in the area closest to the dam. The tailwaters are less accessible from the shore, and it is recommended to fish them from a boat. There are no official marked trails, but you can explore routes that take you through nearby villages and areas of botanical interest. Footwear: Comfortable, sturdy footwear is recommended for walking along the trails and access areas to the reservoir. During fishing season, it is helpful to wear footwear suitable for wading if you wish to fish from the shore. Best time to visit: Spring and summer are the ideal months to visit the reservoir, when weather conditions are most favorable for water activities and birdwatching. Notices: Both motorized and non-motorized boating are permitted, subject to obtaining a boating permit from the Tagus River Basin Authority (CHT). Water level fluctuations are frequent and significant, which may affect access to certain areas. The area is protected as a Special Protection Area (SPA) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), so it is important to respect environmental regulations and not disturb the environment.
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