Cabárceno Natural Park
Cantabria
Cabárceno Natural Park is a unique zoological and nature reserve located near Penagos, Cantabria, Spain, occupying 750 hectares of a restored former open-pit iron mine. The park provides semi-free habitats for over 100 animal species from five continents, including endangered species such as African elephants, tigers, lions, and Cantabrian brown bears. Unlike traditional zoos, animals live in large enclosures that simulate natural environments with minimal human interference, allowing them to behave as they would in the wild. The park features diverse landscapes including gorges, lakes, and karst rock formations, enhancing the naturalistic experience. Facilities include multiple cafeterias, picnic areas, environmental education classrooms, and a gondola lift offering panoramic aerial views. Botanical routes showcase native and exotic tree species, enriching the ecological context. The park also engages in scientific research and conservation programs in collaboration with international institutions, focusing on endangered species protection and behavioral studies. Cabárceno is managed by Cantur, the Cantabrian government tourism company, and is a member of European and Iberian zoo associations, making it a leading center for wildlife conservation in Europe.
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Astuce: Visit during spring and early autumn for pleasant weather and active wildlife. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak seasons. Take advantage of the park's free shuttle bus in August and use the gondola for a unique aerial perspective. Bring comfortable walking shoes for botanical routes and explore the various picnic and dining facilities. Discounts are often available for children, students, and groups. Reserve guided tours or educational programs ahead of time if interested.
Faits intéressants
- •Cabárceno Natural Park occupies a former open-pit iron mine covering 750 hectares.
- •It houses over 100 animal species living in semi-freedom, including endangered species like the Cantabrian brown bear and African elephant.
- •The park features a gondola lift that covers 70% of the area, providing aerial views of animal enclosures and the surrounding landscape.
- •Scientific collaborations include non-invasive studies of African elephant reproductive cycles and behavior with German institutions.
- •The park is a member of the Iberian and European Associations of Zoos and Aquaria, contributing to species conservation efforts.
- •Visitors can explore botanical routes highlighting diverse tree species near animal habitats.
Histoire
The park was established in 1989 on the site of a former open-pit iron mine dating back to Roman times, which had been exploited until recent decades.
The transformation reclaimed and restored the karstic landscape into a naturalized habitat spanning 750 hectares.
The initiative was led by Juan Hormechea Cazón, a former president of Cantabria.
Over the years, the park has evolved from a mining site to one of Europe's foremost wildlife conservation centers, integrating its mining heritage into the visitor experience.
Modern infrastructure like the 2016 gondola lift has enhanced accessibility and visitor engagement.
Guide du lieu
Gondola Lift2016
A cable car system inaugurated in 2016 that traverses about 70% of the park, offering panoramic aerial views of animal enclosures and the natural landscape. It operates with 60 cabins across four stations, allowing visitors to embark or disembark at multiple points.
Los Osos Area
Located at the heart of the park, this area features a restaurant, cafeteria, and souvenir shop with a terrace overlooking a bear enclosure, offering visitors a chance to observe Cantabrian brown bears in a naturalistic setting.
Reptile House and La Mina Cafeteria
Situated near the park entrance, this section houses various reptiles including venomous snakes like cobras and rattlesnakes, along with turtles and lizards. Adjacent is La Mina cafeteria with a gift shop and terrace for visitor convenience.
Environmental Education Centre
A facility dedicated to environmental education offering programs for children and teenagers between ages 3 and 18, emphasizing conservation awareness and ecological knowledge.
Botanical Routes
Several walking paths near animal enclosures featuring diverse native and exotic tree species such as yews, oaks, hickories, birch, chestnut, and pines, enhancing the park's ecological richness and visitor experience.
Mirador del Rubí
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city of Santander and the bay's arch, providing a remarkable visual highlight for visitors.
Mirador de Perdices
Another important observation point overlooking the town of Cabárceno and the expansive elephant enclosure, allowing visitors to observe African elephants in a large naturalistic habitat.
Contact
Téléphone: 942 56 37 36
