The park, located at the juncture of Spain and Portugal, has long become a true gem for those seeking not only natural beauty, but also a rare combination of natural phenomena. Here, among mountains, rivers, and dense forests, you can watch the landscape transform before your eyes—from humid valleys to rocky peaks, from shady oak groves to open pastures. This remarkable diversity is explained by its unique location, where two major European climate zones intersect, making this corner exceptional even by Spanish standards.
The transition from one climate to another is so smooth that it’s often difficult to tell where one ends and the next begins. This creates a unique atmosphere: you can find both northern deciduous forests and evergreen Mediterranean groves in the same spot. For nature researchers and hiking enthusiasts, the park becomes a true open-air laboratory, where every trail leads to a new discovery.
Waterfalls and adventure
One of the park’s main highlights is the Coga da Fecha waterfall. Its powerful streams are especially impressive during the rainy season, when water crashes down granite ledges with a roar, forming deep pools and turbulent flows. Even in dry periods, the sound of falling water doesn’t fade, and the surrounding rocks offer a real challenge for thrill-seekers and climbers. Locals and tourists alike say that it’s here you can truly experience the raw power and unpredictability of Galicia’s nature.
The waterfall and its surroundings have long been favored by outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to popular hiking trails, canyoning is also common here, and the many natural pools invite swimming even in cool weather. Anyone who dares to climb to the top will be rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of complete detachment from civilization.
A Mosaic of Nature
The Baixa Limia – Serra do Xurés Park covers nearly 30,000 hectares and is part of a UNESCO-recognized transboundary biosphere reserve. The park is a true natural kaleidoscope, where granite mountains neighbor winding rivers, waterfalls, and dense forests. This combination of terrain and climate creates ideal conditions for diverse animal and plant species to thrive—many of which are rare for Spain.
In the park, you might encounter birds of prey, forest and aquatic creatures, as well as large mammals such as wolves, boars, and roe deer. For them, these lands have become a final refuge where nature has remained almost untouched. The plant world is no less fascinating: oaks, birches, evergreen shrubs, and traditional agricultural crops form a unique landscape that changes with the seasons.
Traces of Ancient Civilizations
In addition to its natural treasures, the park preserves numerous historical and cultural monuments. Here, you can find prehistoric burial mounds and dolmens, remnants of Celtic settlements, and Roman roads. Of particular note is the ancient Via Nova—a Roman road connecting Braga and Astorga—where you can still walk today, feeling the presence of centuries past.
Along the trails, you’ll encounter medieval churches, traditional villages, and examples of folk architecture harmoniously integrated into the landscape. These places seem tailor-made for unhurried walks and reflection on the deep interconnection between people and nature over the centuries.
Hiking trails and thermal springs
The park offers visitors a wealth of opportunities: from well-marked hiking trails to scenic driving routes linking viewpoints and historic sites. The interpretive center in Lobios is especially popular, where guests can learn more about the local flora, fauna, and history.
After a long walk, many people head to the thermal springs on the banks of the Caldo River. Here, hot underground waters allow you to relax and recharge at any time of year. Bathing in natural pools at sunset is an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
The Baixa Limia – Serra do Xurés Park is more than just a natural area; it’s a living open-air museum where everyone can find something special: adventure, tranquility, new knowledge, or inspiration. Here, the borders between countries and climates dissolve, and history blends seamlessly with nature.
Baixa Limia – Serra do Xurés is not only a unique natural complex but also part of a transboundary biosphere reserve recognized by UNESCO. The park holds a special place in Galicia’s ecosystem, uniting rare species of flora and fauna while preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage. Traces of ancient civilizations can be found here, as well as thermal springs to enjoy and a fascinating world to discover, where nature and humanity have coexisted in harmony for centuries.
Continuing the topic of unusual corners of Spain, it’s worth recalling another place where nature and history are closely entwined. In a previous publication, we talked about a Catalan village that turns into a real fairy tale in winter, with glacial lakes and mysteries from the past. For more on how this region becomes a magnet for those who love the extraordinary, check out the article The Catalan village where winter turns into a fairy tale.
