Sanabria Lake Natural Park
The Sanabria Lake Natural Park and Segundera and Porto Mountains is a protected natural area located in the northwest of the province of Zamora, Castile and Leon. This park extends over the foothills of the Segundera and Cabrera mountains, encompassing an impressive variety of mountainous and glacial landscapes. It was declared a natural park in 1978 and covers an area of 22,365 hectares, although an extension to reach 32,302 hectares has been proposed.
Geology and Glacial Landscape #
During the coldest phases of the Quaternary, the Sanabria region experienced glacial conditions that sculpted its landscape. During this period, the snow line was established at around 1600 meters above sea level, forming a plateau glacier that diverged into long tongues of ice. About 10,000 years ago, the Würm glaciation left a legacy of deep valleys, glacial cirques, moraines, and over twenty lakes scattered across the mountains. These geological formations create a spectacular and unique landscape in the Iberian Peninsula.
Flora and Fauna of the Park #
The park is home to a rich biodiversity, with over 1500 plant species and varied fauna. The botanical diversity is due to the park’s geographical position, which lies on the boundary between the Atlantic and Mediterranean climates. The slopes facing north and west are predominantly Atlantic flora, while those facing south and east have Mediterranean characteristics. Additionally, on the highest peaks, there are relict species from the glaciations, such as Ranunculus parnassifolius and Armeria bigerrensis.
Oak forests (Quercus pyrenaica) dominate the landscape, especially in the lower areas. These oaks, known locally as carballos, have traditionally been used in construction and as firewood. In wetter and colder areas, the oaks are replaced by alders, birches, hazelnuts, and hollies. Centuries-old yews and junipers are also common, many of them surviving past fires.
The park is a refuge for over 190 vertebrate species. Among the mammals, the Pyrenean desman, otter, marten, ermine, stone marten, and badger stand out. Large mammals such as roe deer, wild boar, wild cat, and Iberian wolf are also found, although the latter is becoming less frequent. In addition, the park is home to 17 species of diurnal birds of prey, including the majestic golden eagle and the peregrine falcon.
Activities and Tourism #
The Sanabria Lake Natural Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and ecotourists. The glacial lakes, such as the Laguna de los Peces and the Laguna de las Yeguas, offer stunning landscapes and are starting points for hiking trails. The trails allow you to explore the diverse geological formations and the park’s rich flora.
In addition, the park has a network of viewpoints, such as the Neveira Viewpoint, from which you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Sanabria and the surrounding mountainous landscape. These areas offer excellent opportunities for bird watching and nature photography.
The region also has a rich cultural heritage. The San Martín de Castañeda Monastery, a Romanesque building, is one of the most prominent historical landmarks in the park. Along with the urban ensembles of Puebla de Sanabria and other villages, the region’s vernacular architecture reflects the adaptation of its inhabitants to the local geographical and climatic conditions.
Conservation and International Recognition #
The Sanabria Lake Natural Park is not only a natural treasure but also a site of international importance. In 2015, it was included in the Iberian Meseta Transboundary Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, together with other protected natural areas in Spain and Portugal, such as the Arribes del Duero Natural Park and the Douro International. This designation recognizes its ecological importance and its contribution to the conservation of biodiversity.
The diversity of aquatic environments, including streams, springs, lakes, and bogs, is remarkable. The park’s bogs, formed by Sphagnum moss species, are unique in the Iberian Peninsula and serve as a habitat for the Drosera, a small carnivorous plant. These bogs, along with the forests and alpine grasslands, create a mosaic of habitats that support a rich wildlife.
Recommendations for Visitors #
It is important to be prepared for weather conditions, especially in the higher areas, where the weather can change quickly.
It is also essential to follow the conservation rules and respect for the environment, such as not leaving trash and staying on marked trails to minimize the impact on sensitive ecosystems.