Unraveling Spain's Breathtaking Landscapes: A Journey Along Sustainable Paths
In the heart of Spain, a network of car-free routes for walking and cycling is transforming the country's landscape, offering travellers a unique opportunity to explore the nation's natural beauty while supporting local economies. This network, known as Greenways, has been created by the repurposing of over 2,000 miles of disused railway lines.
One such Greenway is the Vereda del Puerto, a restored trashumancia route located about two hours west of Madrid. Winding through the Sierra de Gredos, this route offers a picturesque journey through farmland, oak and pine forests, with stunning mountain views of La Mira peak and Casquerazo.
Another distinctive Greenway is the Senda del Oso in Asturias, following a former mining railway through the Bear Valleys. This trail helps protect the Cantabrian brown bear, one of Europe's rarest species. Along the way, walkers and cyclists pass through towns such as Entragu, Proaza, and Cueva Huerta, with the chance, if lucky, to spot these bears in their natural habitat.
The Senda del Oso is just one of Spain's 140 Greenways, making it easy for travellers to explore comfortably. The Camino Francés, a popular camino in Spain, stretches about 500 miles from the French border to Santiago de Compostela, showcasing Spain's variety of natural landscapes, including the rolling vineyards of La Rioja, the dramatic mountains of León, and the lush green countryside of Galicia.
The Camino de Santiago, one of Spain's most iconic journeys, also encourages travellers to support rural communities along the way. Doñana National Park in Andalusia, home to over 400 bird species and endangered animals such as the Iberian lynx and Spanish imperial eagle, offers several well-marked walking trails suitable for all levels. The La Rocina Trail, a 2.3-mile loop perfect for birdwatching, takes about an hour to complete.
Spain is a global leader on Blue Flag beaches and is working towards protecting 30 percent of its marine areas by 2030. With 16 national parks, four of which are Unesco World Heritage Sites, Spain boasts the most biosphere reserves in the world. The region of Andalusia in southern Spain hosts the largest part of Doñana National Park, offering the best opportunities for exploring this significant natural area on foot.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Spain's Greenways provide a comfortable and sustainable way to explore the country's diverse landscapes and rich culture. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Spain's Greenways.
