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Valladolid -- Nature areas

Reserva de la Biosfera del Valle de Laciana
To the north of Leon, between the Mountains of Leon and the Cantabrian Mountains, the Laciana Valley unfolds, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in the year 2002.

The Laciana Valley, the capital of which is the town of Villablino, is made of luxuriant mixed forests and is surrounded by a cirque, with summits higher than 2,000 metres. Cornón (2,188 m), Catoute (2,111 m) and Tambarón are some of the highest peaks in the region. Birch, oak, and chestnut trees form a landscape crossed by the Sil River, which sometimes runs between steep banks, creating gaps and defiles. Thickets alternate with brañas, high mountain meadows where shepherds take their flocks to graze during the summer. This protected space, also a Special Bird Protection Area (ZEPA), shelters emblematic species such as the capercaillie, endangered species like the brown bear and numerous specimens of roe deer and wild boar. The wolf, another typical animal of Spain, also frequents this valley. Cueto Nidio, which reaches a height of more than 1,700 metres, affords excellent panoramic views of the Laciana Valley. The entire area of Laciana is dotted with small traditional villages, many of which are the starting point for the various trails in the Reserve.

In the mountain meadow of Ronda and Mount Barroso, the development of mixed forests of non-coniferous trees that are very important in the Cantabrian Mountains can be seen. To learn more about the wetlands environment, visit Vega del Palo. This area, which used to be a glacial lake, floods during the winter. As for the high-mountain ecosystems found in the reserve, they abound with heather, creeping juniper and bilberry. Also remarkable is the presence of chamois in this area.

In Villablino, we can visit the hill-fort of La Zamora and many others dotted around the municipality. In Robles de Laciana, we can visit a Romanesque church that was consecrated in the 11th century. The church of San Miguel, in Villablino, is another important example of rural Romanesque architecture. Among the palaces and emblazoned houses found here, the palace of Álvarez Carballo in Orallo, the house of Arias in Rioscuro and the house of Sierra and Pambley in Villablino must be noted. Rioscuro also has a Roman bridge. Raised granaries (hórreos), cattle crates and mountain meadows complete this highland scenery. Finally, in addition to many other activities, visitors can enjoy the Leitariegos Ski Resort.

Hotels

Derby
Loreto, 21-25
08029 Barcelona
     



The best description of the Derby is to say that it is in the eye of a business hurricane. Situated in the heart of the business and office district, only 5 minutes away from Barcelona´s fairgrounds and with direct access to the airport; the Derby enjoys the most tranquillity. This classic example of Barcelona hotel service, with its recently renovated building, is located on a suprisingly quiet street, away from the urban din..

Abba Madrid
Avda. de América, 32
28028 Madrid

     



The abba Madrid is a brand new Hotel, built in 2003, with a modern, cosy and very comfortable decoration. In the main areas it dominates the grey marble combinated to elegant two coloured parquet. The illumination is soft and adapted to provide a nice and warm atmosphere..

Eurostars Gaudí
Consell de Cent, 498 - 500
08013 Barcelona
     



Eurostars Gaudi is a 4* superior Hotel newly-built, in june 2005. It is located only 5 minutes walking from Sagrada Familia (built and designed by the famous architect Antonio Gaudi, which name takes the establishment). Each of 45 guest rooms are tasteful and very well equipped in order to offer a great stay and comfortable facilities. Located at Eixample district, you will have an excellent network of public transport to the city's most important areas at your disposal. .

Golf courses

Club de Golf Costa Ballena
Carretera El Puerto de Santa María - Chipiona, km 5
11520 Rota (Cádiz)
Tel. +34 956847070 / Fax +34 956847050

holes: 18
par: 72


José María Olazábal was the brains behind the design of this 27-hole course situated on the coast of the province of Cadiz, covering an area of more than 400 hectares and belonging to two different municipalities, Rota and Chipiona. It is a course with wide and very versatile tees and so the game can be enjoyed by both professional players and those with a lower level of golf. The round is comfortable and there is plenty of water.

The par-3 16th is particularly worth a mention as the green is surrounded by a lake. The course at Costa Ballena is considered to be one of the best courses in Spain, and there is also a prestigious golf school, a 9-hole course and a high-performance centre for professional players. It is situated 5 km from El Puerto de Santa María on the road to Rota.
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Monte Mayor Golf Club
Carretera N-340, Km. 165,60 (Cancelada)
Avenida de Monte Mayor
29679 Benahavís (Málaga)
Tel. +34 952937111 / Fax: +34 952937112

holes: 18
par: 71


Nestling in the mountains of Benahavis Monte Mayor is one of Andalucia's most spectacular Golf Courses. Designed by Jose Gancedo, it is a challenging proposition but, the quality of the Greens, the natural beauty of the situation and its quietness, will make your round of golf unforgetable. The buggy is automatically included in your green fee..