SOUTHERN MOUNTAIN RANGES OF ÁLAVA
Where climate shapes the landscape
Where climate shapes the landscape
The mountainous alignment of the Cantabrian and Codés ranges stretches from west to east in the southern Álava, constituting a barrier that neatly separates the Mediterranean and Atlantic worlds. This area, integrated into the Natura 2000 Network through its declaration as a ZEC zone, is home to a small geographical area with biological communities that are part of the Natura 2000 network.aacute;fico biological communities of a very diverse nature, reflecting the climatic dissymmetry between the northern and southern slopes of these mountains.
The shade is covered with dense beech and gall oak forests, where species such as the European bee-eater or the marsh tit reach their southern distribution limit in the Basque Country. On the southern slope, with greater sunshine and more affected by fires, the deciduous forests give way to holm oaks and sclerophyllous scrubland.
The community of rupicolous birds of prey is one of the most important ornithological values of this area. In them nest, among others, griffon vultures, Egyptian vultures, eagle owls and golden eagles, as well as other rocky species such as the royal swift and the red rock thrush. The red-billed chough is also very abundant.
This area, protected as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) within the Natura 2000 Network, has great potential for the recovery of the Bonelli's eagle, one of the most endangered species in the region.This area, protected as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) within the Natura 2000 Network, has great potential for the recovery of the Bonelli's eagle, one of the most endangered species in the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, having detected a marked decline in the rest of Spain as well. Currently, only one pair breeds in this area - the only one present in the Basque Country - but four other formerly occupied territories have been identified. Two pairs disappeared (around 1980 and 1985), although their nesting areas are often visited by vagrants in the process of settlement.
They stand out for their ecological and scenic uniqueness, being an ideal destination for those seeking a connection with the natural environment in a serene setting, where time seems to stand still to give way to the contemplation and enjoyment of unique landscapes.
Nearby you can visit other places of interest such as:
Labastida: Nature, history and wine in the south of Alava.
Located in a privileged environment, the municipality of Labastida is sheltered by the majestic Mount Toloño (1,271 m) and flanked by the Ebro River, which traces the natural border between Alava and La Rioja. This enclave is an ideal destination for ecotourists looking to combine nature, culture and history in one place.
Nature lovers will enjoy touring the landscapes surrounding Labastida, where extensive vineyards blend with the wooded slopes of the Toloño. The routes that cross this territory offer spectacular views and allow you to discover a unique biodiversity, typical of the transitional climate between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. In addition, the rich winemaking tradition of the area can be explored in local wineries that offer environmentally friendly tours and tastings at the foot of the vineyards.
In the old town, with a medieval air, the Santo Cristo hermitage stands out, an architectural jewel that combines Romanesque and Gothic styles. You will also find the arches of Toloño and Larrazuria, which once served as gateways to the village. If you plan your visit in November, don't miss the Thanksgiving festivities that celebrate the end of the grape harvest, with music, tradition and a vibrant atmosphere that fills the streets.
El Poblado de la Hoya: living history of the Bronze Age
A few kilometers from Labastida, in Laguardia, the Poblado de la Hoya invites you on a journey through time. This site, one of the most important in the Basque Country, was inhabited between 1200 BC and 250 BC, and its remains reveal how Bronze Age communities lived and organized themselves.
Discovered in 1935, the Hoya settlement occupies about four hectares and was an important commercial center of the time. It will be possible to visit the museum annexed to the site, where utensils, vessels and decorative objects found at the site are exhibited. This space not only highlights the historical heritage of the region, but also shows how ancient civilizations interacted in a sustainable way with their natural environment.