Liébana Ecotourism Commitment
Ecotourism, a product to differentiate Liébana
Ecotourism against depopulation
Liébana, located in the heart of Green Spain, is one of the best preserved areas of the Natura 2000 Network in the Cantabrian Mountains. It is a true natural paradise that is home to some of the most valuable protected areas in the country, such as the Picos de Europa National Park.
Local stakeholders are developing a Tourism Sustainability Plan that has promoted the incorporation of the Ecotourism product in Spain (I am Ecotourist) and its distinction with the System of Recognition of Nature Tourism in the Natura 2000 Network.
Liébana is a historical and natural region in the southwest of Cantabria, surrounded by the imposing framework of the mountains that form it: the Picos de Europa, the Cantabrian mountain range and the mountain range of Peña Sagra, with the only way out of the gorge of La Hermida. The whole region is a natural treasure that gives its name to the Liébana Special Conservation Area, 74% of its surface being protected, being the Picos de Europa National Park an international reference.
The good state of conservation of Liébana is evidenced in its extensive forests where the brown bear lives, its alpine meadows with endemic flora and a great variety of butterflies, its high mountain scrublands where the partridge takes refuge, and its high mountain scrublands where the partridge lives.Its rivers and streams are home to the scarce salmon, its peaks and canyons where the bearded vulture has settled, and for being a potential distribution area for the Cantabrian capercaillie.
The richness of its natural heritage and the delicate balance to maintain the agricultural and forestry activities that have shaped its idyllic landscapes, have inspired local stakeholders to bet on a change in its tourism model. To this end, they designed a tourism sustainability plan promoted by the Local Action Group of Liébana and currently being implemented by the Mancomunidad de Liébana y Peñarrubia, whose objectives are to diversify the tourist offer, redistribute the flow of tourists to the area, and to improve the quality of life of the local population.The objectives are to diversify the tourist offer, redistribute visitor flows, adapt facilities, create attractive tourist products, ensure the sustainability of tourist activity, strengthen management and consolidate the image of the tourist destination. The aim is to stop the depopulation of Liébana and that tourism reinforces the economic activity without becoming a monoculture. The commitment to develop ecotourism experiences seeks to make known the best of the Cantabrian nature with the agricultural and handicraft products of Liébana.
As part of the plan, Liébana has opted to develop the product "Ecotourism in Spain", with an initial selection of local companies that have implemented the System for the Recognition of Sustainability of Nature Tourism in the Natura 2000 Network. The aim is to offer tourists ecotourism experiences designed by companies committed to nature conservation. At the same time, the Local Action Group of Liébana has joined the Ecotourism Association of Spain to make this destination a benchmark in sustainability.
Liébana is also one of the main nodes of the "Ecotourism Corridor of Green Spain", and an essential visit to get to know the essence of the best preserved rural Cantabria. This initiative, jointly promoted by Cantabria, the Basque Country, Galicia and the Principality of Asturias, aims to create a great ecotourism route that allows visitors to explore the natural wealth of northern Spain. Along this route, travelers will have the opportunity to discover protected natural areas of great beauty, live learning experiences and enjoy nature in a respectful way, with activities organized by local companies committed to conservation.
In Liébana, local actors join forces to effectively implement the LEADER rural development program and the tourism sustainability plan as essential tools. Thanks to these strategies, the region has strengthened and improved its tourism offer, focusing on using its natural and cultural heritage without compromising its conservation. This approach has allowed Liébana to position itself as a destination for ecotourism and active tourism that is attractive for the beauty of its landscapes, and for its commitment to sustainability and the quality of the tourist experiences it offers.
The brand "Liébana, Picos de Europa" is synonymous with conservation and sustainable development. The dedication of its residents and authorities to maintain a balance between the natural environment and human development has been widely recognized, reinforcing its reputation as a destination that cares about the future of the environment and its inhabitants. This recognition highlights the exceptional quality of the region's landscapes and biodiversity, making each visit an opportunity to connect with nature in a profound and respectful way.
Liébana, ecotourism in action to conserve a living heritage
In Liébana, biodiversity conservation is not just a promise, but a palpable reality. Every trail, forest and valley in Liébana tells a story of striving to protect nature, and at the same time, celebrating its beauty. Visitors are invited to participate in this mission, enjoying outdoor activities that allow them to discover the essence of an authentic and wild destination. Whether observing wildlife in its habitat, exploring hiking trails or participating in rural tourism experiences, every step in Liébana is a tribute to the commitment to nature and sustainability. In Liébana, tourism goes beyond simple enjoyment: it is a commitment to sustainability and an opportunity to leave a positive impact on the place.