Renewable energies
Verlo siempre en Español
21 marzo 2024
The Wind Ecotourism Guide: A sustainable Holy Week in Spain
The wind is just another resident in our villages. Changing our energy model and committing to clean, renewable energies such as wind power is essential in the fight against climate change. And it is also compatible with rural and sustainable tourism. If you are looking for a different kind of holiday, we would like to suggest some of the routes included in the first Wind Ecotourism Guide.
By Carlos Martí
At a time when the future is crying out for transformation towards sustainability, wind energy is emerging as a guiding light leading us towards a cleaner, more balanced horizon. Spain is a pioneer in the adoption of renewable energies and has shown that it is possible to align economic development and environmental preservation with wind energy. It covered 27% of demand and 24% of electricity generation in 2023. This progress is not only in response to the climate urgency, but is also in line with the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), leading the way towards a significant reduction in CO2 emissions and promoting energy independence that is crucial for the future.
In this era of development, tourism has found two of its strongest allies in nature and sustainability. The integration of wind energy into the Spanish landscape has gone beyond the production of clean energy, becoming a cultural element of great importance. This link between energy and culture has led to the creation of the first Wind Energy Ecotourism Guide, an initiative that proposes a new way of travelling and discovering Spain, combining the pleasure of rural tourism with environmental awareness.
The pioneering guide presents ten national routes through Aragón, Asturias, Castile-León, Catalonia, Galicia and Navarre that allow you to explore landscapes where wind farms are harmoniously integrated into the natural environment. These routes not only promote the generation of clean energy, but also encourage the gastronomy, culture, nature and heritage associated with these regions.
This Easter we invite you to explore the beauty of Spain through five wind energy ecotourism routes that promise not only escape and adventure, but also a deep respect for our planet.
Sil Canyons, Galicia
We begin our journey in Galicia, where the rivers Sil and Miño carve one of the most spectacular landscapes in Spain. Here, wind farms blend harmoniously into the surroundings and offer a fascinating technological contrast against the backdrop of pure nature. Visitors can enjoy a route that combines trekking through the canyon lookout points with visits to the wind farms, a perfect combination of clean energy generation and wine culture in the very heart of the Ribeira Sacra.
Sierra de Capelada, Galicia
Continuing our journey north, we find the Sierra de Capelada, home to the northernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula and the highest cliffs in Europe. Facing the sea, the wind turbines in the mountains defy the wind, creating a landscape where the force of nature and human innovation meet. This destination is perfect for lovers of sea views and geology, with routes that offer breathtaking panoramas and the opportunity to observe up close how the wind is transformed into energy.
Huérmeces, Burgos
In the heart of Castile, the route through Huérmeces invites travellers to discover the austere beauty of the moors of Burgos, where wind turbines rise like modern menhirs among fields of cereals. This area, rich in history and biodiversity, is ideal for those looking to connect with nature and Spain's rural history, offering a journey back in time from ancient settlements to the forefront of sustainability.
Medinaceli, Soria
Medinaceli offers an experience where history and nature converge. From its privileged position, this ancient Roman city provides unique views of the valleys, dotted with the modern wind turbines of the Caramonte wind farm. Visitors can explore a heritage rich in culture and tradition, with the opportunity to learn about the role of wind energy in protecting rural areas and promoting their sustainable development.
El Bierzo, León
Finally, our route takes us to El Bierzo, a region where nature is shown in all its splendour. At the Peña del Gato wind farm, visitors can observe how wind technology coexists with a rich and diverse ecosystem, home to protected species such as the capercaillie. Hiking trails enable you to explore forests, rivers and mountains, offering a unique perspective on the importance of renewable energies for the conservation of these natural landscapes.
Wind ecotourism offers us the opportunity to rediscover Spain from a different perspective, combining a passion for adventure with a commitment to a more sustainable future. These five routes are just the beginning of a journey that promises to enrich not only our adventurous spirit, but also our understanding and respect for nature and the technology that seeks to protect it.
Contenido relacionado
Renewable energies
Do renewable energies harm tourism?
Renewable energies
IFAPA: Promoting sustainability in the Andalusian agri-food sector
Renewable energies
Can solar panels be recycled?
Renewable energies
What is mechanical energy and who discovered it?
Renewable energies