Las Merindades is the natural paradise of Burgos, where impressive mountains mingle with beach-like riverbanks.

If the impressive rock formations and other wonders of Alto Tajo Natural Park, located in the state of Guadalajara and next to the border with Aragon, have left you wanting more wilderness without even leaving the Iberian Peninsula, just head up. a little further north to what is known as Las Merindades. There, the mountains north of Burgos at some point turn into a paradise we all dream of but don’t know where to find it. Vast landscapes where nature recreates itself with its own beauty and preserving the charm of enormous pristine natural monuments.

In Las Merindades, landscapes of forests and crystal-clear rivers mingle. interesting Romanesque retreats, slender towers and castles and other heritage treasures. More than 360 population centers spread over an area similar to neighboring Vizcaya make up the vast region. Both the Ebro and the Cantabrian Mountains have conditioned a landscape that remains colorful and astonishing every season of the year.

This is a contrast zonefacing vast depressions and desolate steppes; glacial valleys and rugged mountains; large gaps and difficult passages; waterfalls and mighty rivers; native forests and steep grasslands.

So this is a region enjoy nature, yes, also enjoy outdoor sports: hiking; Mountain bike; caving climbing; ski; sailing rafting; canoe; Golf; Fishing; hunting, riding and all kinds of weather sports. As well as being a place to explore history and immerse yourself in the traditions, customs and values ​​of its people.

By touring the Merindades, the reflection of history’s imposing footprint can be discovered. From primitive man in Ojo Guareña to the present. In the Middle Ages, the region played an important role. Repopulation as the core of Castile’s origin. On the other hand, remnants of his warrior past are shown in the many defensive towers and powerful houses resulting from the struggles between the Salazar and Velasco lineages.

You can enjoy it in Merindades, thanks to the waters washing the area. wonderful riverside areas such as waterfalls, natural pools and reservoirs for recreation and bathing. For this we can go to the Ebro reservoir, Espinosa de los Monteros – the natural pools of the Dam, Villacobos Park, the bathing area in Valdivielso district or Villarcayo – El Soto. Of course, it should be noted that there is no lifeguard service in any of these bathroom areas.

Las Merindades is also a region closely linked to its craftsman tradition. There is evidence of the work of tanners, who since the 17th century have gained great renown as potters, shoemakers, potters, weavers, blacksmiths, stonemasons, fillers, coachmen, saddlers, weavers and basket makers, among others. Today, traditional trade knowledge in the region has been preserved thanks to the work of artisans who benefit from the raw materials of the region. All this led to Las Merindades declared Artisan Interest.

Regarding gastronomy, it is a very diverse region and this makes the land able to offer its inhabitants some high quality produce to prepare delicious meals. However, among all their products, it is worth highlighting those that come from the slaughter of pork, a tradition that still continues in their town today, with delicacies such as chorizo, black pudding or torreznos. Likewise, we do not forget about meat, such as meat, due to the distinctive livestock characteristics of the region. Veal with the “Carne de las Merindades” Quality Marklamb or game meat.

On the other hand, land provides food such as: medina lettucepotatoes or fruit of exceptional quality, for example Cherries of Cariges. Other prominent products are honey, especially heather honey, dark in color with a characteristic odor and taste. chacolia young white wine, traditionally produced by the family cake or yarn (round bread stuffed with chorizo ​​and sobao and italians (The butter produced in the villa and two of the most representative desserts made in Espinosa de los Monteros).

Note: Some of the links in this article are linked and may benefit Trenddencias.

Photos | @turismmerindades