Not too far from Italy, with its warmth and unique flavors, Spain is the perfect destination to combine hunting activities with some tourism.
The crown jewel of hunting in the Iberian land is undoubtedly the hunt for the Macho Montes, the Spanish ibex that inhabits the mountain ranges of Spain.
Among rivers of rosemary and thyme, on the white rocks of the Spanish sierras, hunting the Macho Montes becomes a must for every big game hunter.
The mountainous hunting terrain is certainly less rugged and harsh compared to the Italian Alps, but it still allows for breathtaking approaches that make this mountain hunt a true challenge.
These animals are considered the most prized of the Iberian fauna, and four species are recognized, differing from each other in the shape and size of the trophy.
Hunting the Macho Montes
From the majestic peaks of Gredos to the snow-kissed Sierra Nevada, from the romantic cliffs of Ronda to the serene highlands nestled between Valencia and Barcelona, the Spanish ibex becomes both a challenge and a coveted treasure. This noble creature, the Macho Montes, lures hunters into an intricate dance of pursuit and admiration.
In the golden embrace of autumn, the males, with their striking black chests and beards, stand in stark contrast against the sunlit rocks. Their regal presence commands the landscape, while the females, gathered in graceful herds, encircle their chosen monarch, creating a living tapestry of natural splendor.
The Spanish ibex, a creature of profound suspicion and elusive cunning, revels in the sun’s warm embrace. This affection for sunlight makes it more visible on clear, bright days. Yet, even when the rare rains drape these lands in a gentle veil, the diligent hunter, with unwavering gaze scanning the valley floor, may be graced with the sight of the Macho Montes’ magnificent, spiraled horns—a testament to nature’s grandeur.
Perched upon the rugged yet tender heights, the horizon unveils a vista where the sea tenderly kisses the Ebro Delta. The salty tang of the air invigorates the spirit, sharpening the senses for the hunt. Here, amidst the whispering breezes and the symphony of nature, the pursuit of the Macho Montes becomes a poetic odyssey, a journey of passion and reverence, where every moment is steeped in the romance of the wild.
Beceite, Gredos, Ronda, Sierra Nevada
The Macho Montes, with its robust physique, is a powerful animal characterized by large horns, a dark brown coat with ochre and rust spots, and short, strong legs to navigate the rocky terrain typical of the area.
Among the white rocks scented by the sea, four different species can be identified, each varying in the shape, configuration of the horns, and the size of the trophy: Beceite, Gredos, Ronda, and Sierra Nevada.
To the north, between Valencia and Barcelona, the Beceite ibex dominates the valleys in areas historically marked by the Spanish Civil War.
On the Sierra de Gredos, not far from Madrid, you can find the most majestic of the Macho Montes, the Gredos.
Recognizable by its darker coat and S-shaped horns, it can be spotted on the steep cliffs and among the bushes of the highlands that slope down towards Extremadura.
Further south, where the Mediterranean scents mingle with the fragrances of Africa, you can find the smaller species: the Ronda and the Sierra Nevada.
Slightly different from each other but both tough and elusive, they challenge hunters on rocky gullies and among bushes where flocks of Spanish “red” partridges take flight in the brisk southern wind.
No matter which species you choose to hunt, the sparse brush, the scents of thyme and rosemary, and the rocks imbued with the smell of salt will make the hunting experience even more rewarding.**
Paolo and Maria’s Story
The hunting trip for the Macho Montes in Spain was a unique experience for Maria and Paolo. A few years ago, they traveled to Spain and after their stay, they decided to share their experience with us.
Both were extremely satisfied with the warmth of the Spaniards and the expertise of their professional hunters (P.H.).
Maria says: “I really appreciated the hospitality of my guide Alfonso, who combined the required professionalism (observation, searching for game, traveling on foot) with a natural communicative charm.”
Paolo, on the other hand, states: “Oscar proved to be very empathetic, passionate, and a great connoisseur of mountain hunting, the hunting grounds, and the habits of the Macho Montes. Always friendly and accommodating, he catered to us at every moment, always proposing the best solution. Truly an excellent hunting companion.”
Both Maria and Paolo had a successful hunt and can’t wait to return to the warm embrace of Spain.
“In anticipation of the trophy, with a bit of nostalgia, I flip through the photos I took with the illusion of still being there among the thorn bushes and rosemary, swept by the wind and the passage of animals.”
These are the words with which Maria thanks us for helping to make her dream come true.
For Paolo, “The hunt took place in wonderful locations and concluded on the very first day with the harvesting of a beautiful Macho Montes specimen. An unparalleled experience, both for the hunting grounds and the game. The Macho Montes is truly a magnificent animal, and the pleasant sensation of fully sharing this passion with people you don’t know made this hunting experience even more fulfilling.
It’s truly incredible how hunting makes everyone equal on an emotional level, even in the presence of different cultures, places, and ages.”
In pursuit of these cunning goats, whether they boast trophies of great size or are just representative, makes this hunt unforgettable, in a romantic setting surrounded by great beauty, artistic monuments, and fine cuisine.
What are you waiting for? Let yourself be enveloped by the intoxicating aroma of thyme and rosemary that will accompany you during your Ibex hunting stay.
