Spain is a country renowned for its rich culture, historic landmarks, and stunning beaches. However, it is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a prime destination for a wildlife holiday. Here are some of the benefits of a wildlife holiday in Spain.
Firstly, Spain boasts a vast range of ecosystems, including mountains, wetlands, forests, and deserts. This variety of habitats provides a home to a diverse range of species, making it an ideal location for wildlife enthusiasts. The country is home to numerous rare and endangered species, such as the Iberian lynx, the Spanish imperial eagle, and the brown bear.
Secondly, Spain has an extensive network of national parks and protected areas, covering over 10% of its landmass. These areas are home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe, as well as an abundance of wildlife. Some of the most famous national parks in Spain include Doñana, Sierra Nevada, and the Pyrenees.
Spain, a land of rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, beckons travelers from around the world. While many are familiar with its vibrant cities and historical landmarks, Spain’s wild side often remains hidden. In this article, we embark on a journey through the wilderness of Spain, exploring its diverse wildlife, captivating geography, and the importance of its protected areas.
The Breathtaking Geography of Spain
Spain’s geography is a testament to nature’s grandeur. From the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees in the north to the sun-soaked beaches of the Costa del Sol in the south, Spain offers a striking variety of landscapes.
The village of Riglos, a hidden gem in the Hoya de Huesca
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
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Welcome to Spain, a land of extraordinary biodiversity! Within its borders lie numerous protected areas, each offering a unique tapestry of landscapes and wildlife. From the stunning wetlands of Doñana National Park to the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, and the enchanting coastal beauty of Cabo de Gata-Níjar. Let’s embark on a journey exploring Spain’s remarkable protected areas and natural treasures.
Below, you’ll find a list of some my favorite protected areas. Places I go back and revisit whenever I can. Click on the green links to delve deeper into each region’s breathtaking beauty, learn about the unique flora and fauna that call these places home, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Spain’s wildlife wonderland.
Andalucia – Located in the south, this region boasts rich biodiversity with Doñana National Park providing a sanctuary for the elusive Iberian lynx, vibrant flamingos, and playful dolphins. Meanwhile, the Sierra Nevada mountain range offers a glimpse of agile ibex, graceful deer, and majestic golden eagles.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
Status: Regional Hunting reserve. With its definitive protection status yet to be determined. In recent years, there has been a debate over the proposal to declare this mountain range a natural park, a measure that has been opposed by the residents of the municipalities affected, as they consider it detrimental to their economic interests.
Area: The Sierra de la Culebra covers an approximate total area of 70,000 hectares, of which 61,305 hectares have been designated as a Site of Community Importance (LIC), and 67,340 hectares were declared a national hunting reserve in 1973, later converted into a regional hunting reserve since 1996. It is also part of the “Plan de Espacios Naturales Protegidos de Castilla y León” and is part of the Meseta Ibérica biosphere reserve.
Nearby towns and villages:Pedralba de la Pradería, Puebla de Sanabria, Ferreras de Abajo, Ferreras de Arriba, Ferreruela, Tábara, Manzanal de Arriba, Otero de Bodas, Villardeciervos, Figueruela de Arriba, Mahíde, Riofrío de Aliste
Introduction to the Sierra de Culebra
The Sierra de la Culebra is a Spanish mountain range located in the northwest of the province of Zamora and the autonomous community of Castilla y León. It’s main value lies in the large population of Iberian wolf with the highest concentration in Spain. Populations of red deer, roe deer and wild boar are also very significant.
The name of this mountain range is thought to have been inspired by its undulating contours, which bear a resemblance to a snake, hence its name “Sierra de Culebra” (Snake Mountain Range). However, another theory suggests that the name could have stemmed from the historical presence of snake species, including the smooth snake, the horn-nosed viper, and the whip snake.
The area continues across the border and is included in the Portuguese Natural Park of Montesinhos. Its small elevations range from 800 to 1,200 meters in height. Reforestation pine is dominant in the mountains, although native forest masses of oak, Spanish oak, and chestnut are also present. In the scrublands, heather and rockrose are the dominant plants.
The area has also become famous as a starlight destination. The Starlight Foundation is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2009 to promote the protection of the night sky and the development of “astrotourism” and there is an ever growing list of starlight destinations in Spain to visit.
The Sierra de Culebra: A land of wolves.
This mountain range is internationally renowned for being home to one of the most precious faunal treasures and a symbol of conservation efforts—the Iberian wolf. Its vast expanse allows for days of exploration through wide, untouched natural spaces, far from human presence. It stands as one of the premier destinations in Spain for wolf observation.
The best place to see wolves in Spain is in the rolling hills of the Sierra de la Culebra.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
