Fragas do Eume Natural Park

The Fragas do Río Eume Park is considered one of the great woodland gems of Spain and is the finest example of the survival of native forests along the Galician coastline.

The nature reserve extends through the municipalities of Cabañas, A Capela, As Pontes, Monfero and Pontedeume. It is an area outlined by the course of the Eume River, and the landscape can be described as semi-mountainous. It has a temperate marine climate. This park's greatest value lies in the fact that it has survived since Neolithic times. The oak forests (called fragas) extend over 2,500 ha. of the park, populated mainly by oak trees (Quercus robur). Oak has been of such great importance in the culture of these lands that it was worshipped by ancient peoples for centuries. In addition to oak, other important species include birch, hazel and chestnut trees. Also, although less frequently, Spanish oak, sessile oak, elm and cork oak are found. The park is home to 15 species of amphibians, 14 species of reptiles, 8 species of fish, 103 species of birds and 41 species of mammals. This makes it one of the areas with the greatest biodiversity of fauna in Spain. Characteristic species of the area include the long-tailed salamander and the wildcat.