Forests for welcoming the autumn

The Black Forest in Germany is the only beach and fir forest that is larger than the Irati Forest on the continent. In this small green paradise, located in the Eastern Pyrenees in Navara and that covers over 17,000 hectares, the brooks and streams abound, meaning the freshness and the murmuring of water accompany walkers on their journey. 

It is populated by many species such as foxes, trout and wild boars and in the autumn, the rutting deer can be heard, with their bellows that reverberate around the forest. The forest is also inhabited, according to local folklore, by characters such as the ‘Basajaun’, the lord of the forest, a long-haired giant, or the ‘lamias’ (Basque mythological characters), who hide in the rivers and springs. 

There are endless options to choose from, such as the interpretative path of Errekaidorra, a museum-like route that is 10 kilometres long that shows how the natural resources of the forest were historically used.

A thick, ghostly mist giving the feeling of the forest in Jurassic Park will receive visitors when they enter the Pijaral Integral Nature Reserve. This protected area in Tenerife hosts endemic species such as the Woodwardia radicans, also known as ‘píjara’, a species of fern that can measure up to three metres that gives its name to the area.

One of the most spellbinding corners of the Pijaral is the path known as the ‘Bosque Encantado’ or Enchanted Wood, which follows a circular route of around 7 kms, along paths completely covered by forest ferns. It should be noted that to do this route, you must apply for a permit a few days beforehand from the Tenerife Island Council. 

Cork, which has been harvested for centuries, is the true star in Los Alcornocales Natural Park, which spreads over 170,000 hectares of land in between the provinces of Cadiz and Malaga. It is the largest forest of cork oaks on the planet.

It can be crossed following a path that ascends to El Picacho, from which there is an impressive panoramic view. With luck, you will see some of the fauna species that inhabit the park, amongst which the eagles stand out.

The fact that it is located on the cooled wash of a volcano makes Fageda d’en Jordà a unique setting. In the autumn, the blanket of leaves tinged in ochres and reds contrasts with the lava protrusions covered in green moss that rise up from the ground and that can reach over 20 metres in height.

This leafy forest in the Garrotxa, which has always been a source of inspiration for painters and poets, may be visited along a very short, simple, circular circuit, suitable for all. Other more ambitious routes of around 12 km, will lead hikers to discover the charm of the Zona Volcánica Natural Park, including the Santa Margarita volcano, with its Romanic hermitage in the crater.

Fragas do Eume, one of the best conserved riverside Atlantic forests on the continent is located in the province of La Coruña. It covers 9,000 hectares of vegetation, amongst which 20 species of fern and 200 of lichens may be found. The relaxing murmur of the water from many springs and waterfalls will accompany visitors along their route.