Is camping permitted at Fuente de las Tobas?

Only as overnight bivouac for long-distance hikers traversing the major trails crossing this area. A simple shelter stands next to the recreation area.

Fuente de las Tobas: the great Tagus waterfall in Peñalén

Fuente de las Tobas is a tufa waterfall in Peñalén, where the stream of the Despeñaborricos ravine plunges directly into the Tagus River across a steep drop. It is a permanent cascade and one of the most scenic in the Park, especially in spring. A viewing platform permits viewing without trampling the tufa; a shelter is nearby.

A direct plunge into the river

The mountain stream descending through the Despeñaborricos ravine does not merge gently into the Tagus: it plunges boldly from the heights, constructing an imposing limestone tufa formation along its path. In springtime, swollen by snowmelt and mountain rains, the cascade surges with tremendous power. Even during summer dry spells, it never runs dry.

View without trampling

Limestone tufa is a young, exceptionally fragile biogenic rock built up grain by grain by mineral deposition. For this reason, a dedicated lookout platform allows visitors to admire the waterfall without stepping on the rock: please use it. Walking upon the tufa shatters the delicate mineral structure and halts a natural process requiring centuries.

Facilities

Beside the waterfall stands a recreation area with the Fuente de las Tobas shelter, utilized by hikers following the long-distance footpaths traversing the Park. An ideal rest stop when exploring the area around Peñalén.

Fuente de las Tobas: the great Tagus waterfall in Peñalén

From here, follow the memory of the territory

A direct plunge into the river

View without trampling

Facilities

Frequently asked questions

Location