Los Ancares Leoneses Biosphere Reserve

Los Ancares Leoneses Biosphere Reserve stretches across the north-western corner of the province of León, right at the border with Galicia and Asturias, covering the mountain valleys of the Ancares range within the El Bierzo region. UNESCO added the site to its Man and the Biosphere network in 2006, protecting nearly 56,800 hectares of terrain carved by glacial and fluvial forces.

Where exactly is the reserve located?

The reserve spans the territory of four municipalities — Valle de Ancares, Peranzanes, Vega de Espinareda and Villafranca del Bierzo — home to roughly 6,300 residents combined. It is jointly managed by a consortium formed by these municipalities together with the El Bierzo Regional Council. Geographically, the reserve splits into three sub-areas: the Ancares valley, the Fornela valley, and the upper course of the Burbia river. A stretch of the Camino de Santiago also passes through the protected area.

What kind of nature does the reserve protect?

Sharp changes in altitude combined with overlapping Atlantic and Mediterranean climate influences produce a mosaic of deciduous and coniferous woodland. Centuries-old chestnut groves stand alongside oak, holly, yew, birch and strawberry trees (Arbutus unedo). Nearly 50 plant species found here are endemic to the Iberian Peninsula. Among the more than 200 vertebrate species recorded in the reserve, birds of prey are especially well represented, alongside endangered animals such as the capercaillie and the brown bear.

What cultural heritage survives in the Ancares valleys?

Beyond its natural landscape, Los Ancares Leoneses preserves a distinctive rural culture shaped by centuries of geographic isolation. The most recognisable trace of this heritage is the palloza — a round, thatched stone dwelling with roots going back to pre-Roman times, built to withstand the harsh mountain climate. Local architecture, farming practices and craftsmanship in the valleys still reflect this isolated way of life, giving the region a cultural identity distinct from the rest of León province.

What food is the region known for?

Local gastronomy is built around a handful of well-regarded products: reineta apples, botillo (a traditional smoked pork sausage typical of El Bierzo), cured beef and pears. Rural tourism has been growing steadily in recent years, giving visitors a chance to combine hiking and nature watching with tastings of these regional specialities.

Frequently asked questions

When was Los Ancares Leoneses designated a Biosphere Reserve? UNESCO granted the designation in 2006 under its Man and the Biosphere (MaB) Programme.

How large is the reserve? It covers approximately 56,800 hectares in the north-eastern part of the province of León.

Which municipalities make up the reserve? Valle de Ancares, Peranzanes, Vega de Espinareda and Villafranca del Bierzo.

What endangered species live in the reserve? The brown bear and the capercaillie are the most notable, among more than 200 vertebrate species recorded overall.

What is a palloza? It's a traditional round, thatched stone house typical of the Ancares region's vernacular architecture, valued for its ethnographic significance.