Spain is a true treasure trove of biodiversity that many overlook. From the dense forests of the north to the plains of the south, our country offers diverse ecosystems which serve as a refuge for species that you wouldn't find anywhere else in the world, making the territory an ideal setting for nature tourism.
If you're curious to see wildlife up close, there are routes designed to discover it. Iberian natural heritage without needing to cross the ocean. These experiences, ranging from photographic observation to visits to cattle farms, allow us to connect with the land and appreciate the efforts of those who care for our flora and fauna.
Adventure in the heart of Extremadura: The Kingdom of the Lynx
If you travel to the southern countryside of Extremadura, you'll find a paradise for bird and feline lovers. This is where safaris dedicated to [the species of wildlife] are organized. Iberian lynx and birdwatchingwhere you hop into a 4x4 to explore Mediterranean mountains and meadows. It's an area where silence reigns and the excitement arises from knowing you're treading on the territory of one of the most elusive cats on the planet.
During the tour, guided by experts who know where to look, you'll be amazed by the majesty of the bustards And the elegant bearing of the cranes. It is also common to see the blue flashes of rollers and various birds of prey, such as lesser kestrels, which soar through the sky above these ponds and cereal plains.
The Iberian Safari in Segovia: Among Bison and Horses
Changing scenery and heading north towards Castile, at the Matalosueros Estate in El Cubillo, you'll find a very different but equally fascinating experience. This safari focuses on the livestock farming of native breedsallowing you to admire beautiful animals that are part of our rural history. The most unique aspect is that the tour is done in a covered trailer pulled by a tractor, making it ideal for going with children.
The following stand out on this estate: Lusitano horsesknown for their aquiline noses and strength, as well as various breeds of bulls and cows. But the main attraction is undoubtedly the presence of European bisonThese animals are part of a recovery program to prevent their extinction, and watching them approach the trailer is like being in a National Geographic documentary, especially when there are small cubs in the herd.
The visit isn't just about seeing animals; it's also about understanding the countryside. It begins with a typical lunch of free-range eggs and fried chorizo, and you tour museum rooms with mementos that demonstrate the love for nature of cattle breeder Alberto Herranz. It's a perfect opportunity to learn about the Environmental education and the importance of keeping rural traditions alive.
Iberian Lynx Sanctuaries and Natural Luxury
The Iberian lynx, that elusive feline, has made an astonishing recovery, and there are now more than a thousand individuals roaming free. One of the most exclusive spots for spotting them is La Nava del Barranco. This estate is a top-tier hunting destination where it is estimated that they live about 24 lynxesThanks to the abundance of rabbits in the area, here you can find... luxury photo safaris with facilities including an infinity pool and spectacular suites.
On the other hand, in Andújar (Jaén), the El Encinarejo project seeks to replicate the model of the african safaris to raise funds for biodiversity protection. Also in Toledo, the El Castañar estate offers excursions to observe the feline in an environment protected by the Tagus and Guadiana rivers, combining the wild nature combined with gastronomy .
Exploring the North: Bears, Wolves and Wildcats
If you prefer the fresh mountain air, northern Spain is the place for you. In Asturias, the Somiedo Natural Park is the ideal spot to find the cantabrian brown bearespecially during the months when they are not hibernating. There are experiences that even allow you to sleep outdoors to feel a total connection with your surroundings.
In the Picos de Europa, specifically in the Riaño Mountains, lies one of the higher densities of wildcats of the peninsula. The best times to see them are at dawn or dusk, just after the meadows have been mown in July. Furthermore, the Sierra de la Culebra in Zamora is the birthplace of the Iberian wolf, where the stability of the deer and wild boar population allows this canid to thrive and attract visitors from all over the world.
To conclude the tour, at the foot of the Gredos mountains, the Valdepalacios hotel offers an aerial view of the natural heritage. From there you can observe the cinereous vultureThe largest bird in Spain, and the Iberian imperial, which is usually seen especially during spring, thus completing an impressive catalog of fauna.