Located adjacent to Camino Arbolado, the Dehesa de Mari Martín is a stunning 10-hectare recreational natural park in Navalcarnero. Historically significant since 1501, this Mediterranean parkland is a sanctuary of pines, holm oaks, and scrubland.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful morning walk or an active mountain biking session, the natural park offers an ideal environment for outdoor activities and reconnecting with nature.
The dehesa's roots stretch back to at least 1302, when the "cárcava de Mari Martín" was first documented. When Navalcarnero was founded in 1499, having a communal dehesa was deemed essential for the town's prosperity — Segovia officially demarcated the land for the town's exclusive use on October 18, 1501.
10 Hectares
Recreational Park
Since 1501
Documented History
Regional Park
Guadarrama River
Hiking Trails
Explore numerous walking paths winding through the beautiful Mediterranean landscape.
Cycling & MTB
Hit the trails with local cycling routes perfect for mountain bike enthusiasts.
Local Flora
Discover the rich biodiversity of native pine trees and ancient holm oaks.
Rich History
Walk through a historic dehesa that has been central to Navalcarnero since 1501.
History of the Dehesa
For centuries, the Dehesa de Mari Martín served as communal land for hunting, firewood gathering, wild fruit harvesting, and livestock grazing. Navalcarnero fiercely defended its claim over the land against neighbouring nobles — the Counts of Chinchón and Casarrubios — and especially against the town of Móstoles, with documented armed confrontations in 1512 and 1519.
By 1886, the dehesa still boasted approximately 50,000 holm oaks. After the Spanish Civil War, much of the original woodland was lost. Reforestation efforts in the 1940s introduced pines, creating the mixed landscape you see today — a blend of repopulated pine groves and regenerating oak areas that reflect the authentic Mediterranean forest ecosystem.
Wildlife & Flora
The Dehesa de Mari Martín forms part of the Regional Park of the Middle Course of the Guadarrama River, making it an ecologically significant area. The park is home to towering stone pines (Pinus pinea), centuries-old holm oaks (Quercus ilex), and a rich understory of Mediterranean scrubland including rockrose, lavender, and thyme.
As you walk through the trails, you may spot hoopoes, woodpeckers, jays, and kestrels among the treetops. Rabbits, hares, and small reptiles inhabit the undergrowth. In spring, the park comes alive with wildflowers and the songs of migrating birds — an authentic Mediterranean nature experience right at your doorstep.
Explore the Dehesa
Ruta 5: Forest Edge
A scenic path that traces the edge of the Dehesa, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Perfect for a brisk morning walk.
Ask at our reception for detailed trail maps and bicycle rental options.
Ruta Roja (Red Route)
A deeper excursion into the heart of the parkland. This route takes you through the densest part of the pine forest, ideal for experiencing the local wildlife.
Your Nature Adventure Awaits
Step outside your cabin and into the beauty of the Dehesa de Mari Martín. Ask at reception for detailed trail maps, guided walks, and mountain bike rental.
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