Sabinares del Arlanza Nature Reserve - La Yecla
The meeting of a rich historical heritage and a natural haven of great beauty.
This area in the province of Burgos is home to some of the largest and best preserved juniper forests in the world.
La Yecla Gorge is one of the most emblematic spots in this area. Through a series of footbridges and suspension bridges it is possible to get to know the dimension of this narrow and deep gorge. The rocky relief of the territory has favoured the development of an abundant and varied population of birds of prey, including the colony of griffon vultures that roam the skies above.Following the course of the river Arlanza, the riverside forest with ash, alder, poplar and willow trees dominates the landscape. However, if this natural park stands out for anything, it is for its extensive juniper groves, which are among the best preserved on the planet and where you can find specimens that are more than 2,000 years old.Other relevant places are the Peñas de Cervera, the Matavicias canyon, the Carazo plateau, the Gayubar mountain and the Las Mamblas mountain range. Next to the river Arlanza, there are also some of the area's heritage treasures, such as the ruins of the monastery of San Pedro de Arlanza and the village of Covarrubias.
Sabinares del Arlanza Nature Reserve - La Yecla
What you need to know
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Cultural information
In this area of the province of Burgos you can visit the historic town of Covarrubias and the town of Santo Domingo de Silos, whose monastery is considered a jewel of Romanesque architecture.
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Environmental information
Birds take centre stage, with several colonies of griffon vultures, Egyptian vultures, golden eagles, Bonelli’s eagles, Eurasian eagle-owls, azure-winged magpies and red-billed choughs. Mammals of special interest include the Pyrenean desman and the wildcat.As far as vegetation is concerned, the most abundant species are holm oak and juniper. However, the gall oak, Pyrenean oak and pine forests should not be overlooked.
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Information for visits
The park has a network of more than 20 short trails, while cyclists can also enjoy than 10 mountain bike trails. For more information you can visit the tourist offices at Covarrubias and Santo Domingo de Silos.
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