It is possible to wander around the Californian deserts and, having arrived in Spain where the large territories of forests, meadows, and mountains are and all sorts of trees grow, stumble upon the redwoods. These giants dominating the earth, which, in size, can be compared only to a several-year accomplishment of mankind, are some 10-40 million years old, and let the people see the wonders of the world. Concerning this, it is hoped that this guide will help a visitor to see the stunning and magnificent Redwoods in Spain, and altogether three remarkable places will be mentioned.
Therefore, standing tall trees, giant seeds, and enormous and stunning trees make redwood forests one of the outstanding geographical features on earth. These can be found along the western margin of the United States primarily in California and Oregon, and the oldest trees are mostly seen here. Coast redwood is scientifically referred to as Sequoia sempervirens and the giant sequoia is scientifically known as Sequoiadendron giganteum: These trees are famed as a result of their big sizes and great age.
Redwoods are types of plants that grow scientifically in the western region of the United States of America although they are being grown in Spain this is because someone planted them there. Here in different parts of the country, one can come across such amazing trees and be appreciative of what these trees can offer.
1. Redwood Forest in Cantabria
There is an amazing natural attraction in Spain – the Redwood forest located in Cabezón de la Sal, Cantabria in the north of Spain; it is recommended to visit the place if you are eager for an active rest and if you like beautiful nature.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip:
This PNA territory is in Cabezón de la Sal, although it is one of the smallest in Cantabria concerning extension. It harbors Europe’s greatest population density of the coastal redwoods; approximately subjective evaluation shows that there are 850 of the trees in the 2.5-hectare plot.
History and Conservation
Curious is the history of the plantation of redwoods on the territory of the province of Cantabria. Monte Corona was earlier a constraining hub of the forestry sector needed in the provision of wood for shipbuilding. On the other hand, the marketing activities which encompassed logging experienced an emergence of the fast disappearance of the indigenous oak trees. Due to this imbalance, activities such as reforestation in the twentieth century introduced exotic species such as the coast redwoods.
At the present time, such work in preserving the area of forests, such as the Redwood Forest in Cantabria, proves to be efficient as it preserves the place for trees and also gives a possibility for people to get to know the nature.
Nearby Accommodation
For easier access to the Redwood Forest, there is the town of Comillas, approximately 10 km to the park. Otherwise, there are San Vicente de la Barquera and also Santillana del Mar where good lodging can be found and the forest is also not distant.
Getting There
Simple to find yourself, Redwood Forest is close to the town of Cabezón de la Sal and there are even directional signs to the monument. You just get on the CA-135 in the Comillas direction and you are there in one hour or so.
Parking
After passing the gate at Merry Go Round Five, there is ample free parking around the Redwood Forest. Where the parking lot is full, there are other parking spaces by the side of the road, and a trail makes it possible for a person to get to the area of the forest individually.
Exploring the Forest
There is a wooden path/pedestrian bridge in order to make the visitors directly enter the heart of Redwood Forest. It is completely barrier-free so anyone of any age can easily go there including children and elders. On entering the park, you can actually be allowed for the dirt track which passes through the large trees and at the same time observation on the tranquility of the park and the systems of the park.
Nearby Attractions
The Cantabrian countryside is also an excellent region to go but prior to doing so one should visit the Puente Viesgo Caves, a World Heritage site, and only 20 minutes away from the Redwood Forest. Also, you will be able to see some features of Spanish architecture and culture considering the towns of Carmona and Bárcena Mayor.
Additional Information
- Duration: If you are willing to get engaged in sightseeing, it is recommended that you should spend 30 minutes to 1 hour. For a fan of this kind of natural scenery, you may need more than 1 hour.
- Recommended Stops: Perhaps, it is time to leave the city and drive to Ruente to see the structure known as the Fuentona de Ruente, a place with unstable water levels and geological interest.
2. Sequoias in Andalusia
In the south of Spain near Granada, on the summit of the Sagra Mountain Range, another beautiful redwoods grove exists. Here’s what you need to know:
Location
Sierra de la Sagra with redwood forest is situated 34 miles from Baza and 24 miles from Castril. This forest contains 30 sequoias, some of which are 170 years old and an average of 65 meters in height.
History and Conservation
The sequoia forest in Andalusia has an amazing story worth telling back to the early days of California when it was still a Mexican territory. Most of these trees have been planted over one hundred and seventy-seven years ago and now stand as the region’s natural icons.
Due to conservation and management of these monumental trees, there have been escorted tours whereby people can feel the magnificence of nature as much as the redwood forest is concerned, not to mention the effects of the tours.
Visiting Information
If you are going to see the redwoods, you must organize a sightseeing tour of Finca de la Losa that occupies the best samples of this tree. These free guided tours take approximately 45 minutes, and prior appointment is a must, and each individual is charged 10 Euros.
Nearby Accommodation
As a tourist, you are advised to begin with the town of Baza where all sorts of accommodations can be found ranging from rural cave houses now converted to houses of hospitality, small chic hotels, and bed and breakfasts. On the other hand, Castril boasts graceful accommodating places like hostals as well as natural walks through the lanes.
Nearby Attractions
While in the area, it is strongly recommended that one should visit and go through Castril, the Medieval town, and the Castril Castle. Also, the Cerrada del Rio Castril may be suggested for a walk to make beautiful views of the countryside.
3. Giant Sequoias of Valladolid
Surprisingly, Spain also has its redwood even in the central region, precisely around Valladolid city. Here’s what you need to know about this hidden gem:
Location
Slightly above the Sardón de Duero village, by the Duero canal, 28 KM from Valladolid lies the redwood forest. Even though the size of this park is comparably smaller than other varieties in Spain, it indeed is a wonderful place to capture some peaceful time.
History and Conservation
Sequoia in Valladolid started at the end of the nineteenth century by the transplantation of the trees to the locations during the Universal Exhibitions in Paris. These originals were planned for the exhibitions and two specimens of twins managed to get to the two sides of Duero Canal where they are to date.
Exploring the Area
The sequoias are in the Jardín del Carretero, friends can drive a car and leave near the Casona de Clotilde and get to the garden by walking a few turns. Twin specimens are available here but the rest of the area is so alluring and photogenic, making it a good place for sightseeing.
Nearby Accommodation
Regarding the lodging; it is relatively better to establish in either Sardón de Duero, Peñafiel, or the city of Valladolid for the purpose of visiting the redwood forest. It ranges from small country lodges and guest houses to state-of-the-art spa resorts, hence catering to the preference of every traveler.
Nearby Attractions
When making your schedule of visiting such places, you should not omit Valladolid, as well as places of interest in and around it. These are the places with grand old architecturally appealing buildings, lots of tapas bars that one could get lost in, and of course the wine producers just a short drive to the Ribera Del Duero area.
Conclusion
Whether you are a tourist in the northern part of Spain, the southern part, or the central region of the country, you should make it a point to visit these fantastic woods of redwood trees to have a splendid time with nature. Beginning from the Cantabrian trees up to Andalusia’s Spin or even Valladolid’s vales, it is a rare opportunity to talk to nature and be impressed by the works of the creator. Pack your travel bags and embrace your hiking boots because this is your golden opportunity to visit other redwood places in Spain.