Los Ancares Leoneses Biosphere Reserve
It is located at the western end of the Cantabrian Mountains, in the northwest of the province of León and has deep valleys that descend as low as 800 metres. It was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2006.
It is home to numerous plant species, including nearly 50 that are unique to the Iberian Peninsula. As for fauna, you can find more than 200 vertebrate species, with a significant representation of birds of prey and endangered species such as the capercaillie and the brown bear. The main activities in the area are livestock farming, based on the use of high mountain pastures, agriculture and hunting. In terms of tourism, it is notable for being a stop on the Camino de Santiago, offering delicious cuisine (with renowned products such as reineta apples, botillo, cured beef and pears) and increasingly growing rural tourism opportunities.
Los Ancares Leoneses Biosphere Reserve
León (Castilla y Leon)
León (Castilla y Leon):
- Vega de Espinareda
- Villafranca del Bierzo
- Candín
- Peranzanes
What you need to know
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Cultural information
The heritage inherited from the Reserve dates back to the Neolithic period, with axes, spearheads and some alleged Bronze Age idols. There are examples of popular culture of great ethnographic value, among which the traditional palloza (thatched stone house) stands out. This area thrived in the Middle Ages when it became a stop on the Camino de Santiago. During this time, monasteries, churches, hospitals, and hostels were built, with the Collegiate Church of Santa María in Villafranca del Bierzo being one of the highlights.
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Environmental information
In this area you can find oak, beech and pine forests, areas covered with scrub and crops, small orchards, hay meadows and pastures. The Reserve is also a Site of Community Importance (SCI), a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA) and a National Game Reserve.
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Information for visits
Visitors can take the hiking trail called “La Mirada Circular” or sign up for courses related to the conservation of the area. You can also visit the Chano Castro Thematic Area, named after the archaeological site located next to it. In this area there is a tourist office and the Palloza-museum-bar, where you can get information.
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