3 essential natural wonders in Castilla y León

Las Médulas will grab your attention right away, not just thanks to their rather odd appearance, but also because of their history - this is where the biggest gold mine in whole of the Roman Empire was located in the 2nd century. While the Romans were extracting gold, through excavations and a novel system of aqueducts, they also steadily modified and eroded the contours of the land. The passage of time has taken care of the rest. The result is an incredible landscape where the russet tones of the rock contrast with the green of the vegetation.Due to its significant natural and historical value, this is a protected area. It’s an officially designated Cultural Space, and has been a Property of Cultural Interest since 1996, a World Heritage Site since 1997, and a Natural Monument since 2002. A magical place that's truly unique, and one not to be missed.

This natural park situated between Burgos and Soria covers over ten thousand hectares, and is the third of these essential sights. A natural space full of caves and valleys cut into the rock over time by the waters of the river Lobos. It's also a designated Special Protection Area for birds, so as you walk along the trails and admire the landscapes make sure you remember to look up at the sky, as there is a large colony of griffon vultures.If you like a good mystery, you’ll enjoy the Ermita de San Bartolomé, a building that's said to have been built by the Knights Templar at the exact midpoint between Cabo de Creus and Finisterre, a spot that has an atmosphere and energy all of its own. As you can see there are some incredible places in those thousands of hectares of protected land in Castilla y León, places that stand out for their natural beauty, their history, of a perfect combination of both. Natural spaces that have sometimes grown old together with their inhabitants, who have left traces of their passing behind helping to create these beautiful landscapes. If you come to Castilla y León, remember that: these are three natural wonders that are not to be missed!