Cantalejo Lagoons

Cantalejo Lagoons are a group of protected inland lakes located in the municipality of Cantalejo, in the province of Segovia, within the Cega river basin. They form one of the most unusual wetland ecosystems in Spain, set on flat, sandy terrain within the Tierra de Pinares region, surrounded by extensive pine forests and pastureland.

What are the Cantalejo Lagoons?

The site is made up of around 22 natural water bodies, several of which are permanent freshwater lakes — among them Navahornos, Navaelsoto, Navalayegüa, Cerrada, Navalagrulla, Navacornales, Cespedosa, and Temblosa. The protected area covers more than 12,000 hectares and has been safeguarded by the Junta de Castilla y León since 2006 as a Special Protection Area for Birds and a Site of Community Importance.

What makes this place unique?

The Cantalejo Lagoons are the only wetlands in Spain formed within a continental dune system — a geological rarity even at a European scale. The sandy substrate and natural depressions in the terrain allow water to collect, either seasonally or permanently, creating a distinctive microclimate amid the otherwise dry pine forests of the region.

What role have these lakes played historically?

For centuries, the lagoons have served practical purposes for local communities: as watering holes for livestock, sites for fish farming, and sources of water for irrigating nearby crops. This long history of multiple uses has helped the ecosystem survive in relatively good condition despite its proximity to farming and grazing activity.

What birds can be seen here?

The area holds major ornithological importance. Species recorded around the lagoons include the black stork and white stork, the Iberian imperial eagle, the marsh harrier, and both the black kite and red kite. This richness of waterfowl and birds of prey stems from the combination of open water, reed beds, and surrounding pine woodland, which together provide shelter and nesting grounds.

What does the surrounding landscape look like?

The area around the lagoons is characteristic of the Tierra de Pinares: broad, flat land covered in pine forest and interspersed with pastures. This mix of woodland, water, and open space creates a mosaic of habitats that supports a level of biodiversity rarely found elsewhere in this dry region of central Spain.

Frequently asked questions

Where are the Cantalejo Lagoons located? In the municipality of Cantalejo, province of Segovia, in the Castile and León region, within the Cega river basin.

How many lagoons are there? Around 22 water bodies, several of which are permanent freshwater lakes.

Since when has the area been protected? Since 2006, as a Special Protection Area for Birds and a Site of Community Importance.

What is unique about these lakes? They are the only wetlands in Spain formed within a continental dune system.

What wildlife can be found here? Mainly birds — including black and white storks, the Iberian imperial eagle, the marsh harrier, and black and red kites.