Sanabria Lake
Lake Sanabria is the largest natural lake system in Spain, located in the province of Zamora, within the Sanabria Lake Natural Park. This imposing lake is a vestige of the last glaciation, which occurred about 100,000 years ago. With its 369 hectares of surface area, 53 meters of depth, and a length of approximately 3 kilometers, it is the largest glacial lake on the Iberian Peninsula and one of the largest in Europe.
Beaches and Sports #
Lake Sanabria offers several sandy and stony beaches, surrounded by lush forests and pristine nature. Among the most popular are Custa Llago and Viquiella, located on the western end of the lake. These fine sandy beaches are ideal for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. On the southeastern end, the beaches of Los Arenales de Vigo, Los Enanos, El Pato, and El Folgoso offer a combination of sand, stones, and grassy areas, perfect for a day out with family or friends.
The lake is an excellent place for water sports. Swimming and fishing are permitted, and there are designated areas for activities such as diving, sailing, and windsurfing. However, kayaking is one of the best ways to explore the lake’s topography. Starting from any beach, visitors can paddle surrounded by magnificent oak forests, approaching places like the small island of Las Moras, a point of interest with native vegetation.
Heritage and Culture #
Lake Sanabria is not only a natural paradise but also a place full of history and legends. One of the most famous is the legend of Valverde de Lucerna, which tells the mythical origin of the lake. Additionally, the poet and writer Miguel de Unamuno was inspired by this place to write his novel “San Manuel Bueno, martyr,” after his visit in 1930.
One of the most curious places on the lake is the old Bouzas Spa, dating back to the 19th century. Although in ruins, you can still see the tubs where sulphurous medicinal waters were poured. This site offers a window into the past and the rich history of the region.
The Helios Cousteau Catamaran #
Since 2011, Lake Sanabria has featured the Helios Cousteau, a wind-solar catamaran equipped to carry out tourist and educational tours. This boat is a crucial tool for underwater research, as it has underwater video cameras that allow visitors to observe the lake bottom during the journey. This experience offers visitors a unique view of the lake’s biodiversity and geology, complemented by detailed explanations from expert guides.
Ecology and Conservation #
Lake Sanabria is home to a rich biodiversity, both in flora and fauna. The area is a transition between the oceanic and Mediterranean climates, which promotes a wide variety of plant species, over 1500, including rare species such as Drosera, a small carnivorous plant. The park’s peat bogs, composed of Sphagnum mosses, are unique in the Iberian Peninsula and constitute a singular habitat that deserves special protection.
The lake is also a refuge for various fish species, with trout being one of the most notable. This species is particularly appreciated both in sport fishing and local cuisine, highlighting the traditional dish of Sanabrian trout.
Glacial Origin and Geology #
During the Upper Pleistocene, a giant glacier with ice tongues over 20 kilometers long sculpted the terrain, giving rise to the current Lake Sanabria. Over time, this glacier left an indelible mark on the landscape, forming glacial cirques that are now lagoons scattered throughout the park. Additionally, the glacial erosion process created deep canyons, moraines, and glacial striations, silent witnesses of an ice age.
The lake is located in an exorheic basin, fed mainly by the Tera River. A few kilometers south, the Cárdena River and the Segundera River join the Tera, forming a hydrographic network that includes six reservoirs and numerous wetlands. These additional water bodies contribute to the ecological diversity of the area, providing unique habitats for a variety of species.
History of Ownership and Protection of the Lake #
Over the centuries, Lake Sanabria has been the subject of disputes over its ownership. It originally belonged to the Cistercian monks of the monastery of San Martín de Castañeda, who acquired it in the year 897. However, these disputes continued until the 19th century, when the lake was expropriated during the Mendizábal Disentailment and passed into private hands, specifically those of the Marquis of Villachica. Finally, in 1932, the lake was declared public domain by the government of the Second Spanish Republic.
In 1946, the lake was declared a “site of national interest” and, later, in 1978, it was recognized as a natural park, with a significant expansion in 1990. This protection has been key to preserving its biodiversity and natural beauty, making it a tourist and scientific destination of great importance.
Gallery #
