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Cyclist, have you ever wondered what it means for Guara to be a nature reserve?
As a visitor on two wheels, you can help to preserve it, but first I need to give you some information.
The significance of being a nature reserve
What does it mean to be a Natural Park? For Guara, this entails an uncompromising commitment to sustainability and harmony between nature conservation and the economic development of those who live on and around its lands. This story dates back to the
the 1970s, when the rise in visitor numbers to the Sierra de Guara – some of whom failed to respect the natural environment – led to an urgent call to preserve this natural paradise. In the late 1980s, this led to the creation of the Sierra y Cañones de Guara Natural Park, which was finally designated a protected area in 1990.
Guara. The largest protected area in Aragon.
Covering an area of 47,453 hectares, Guara Natural Park is the largest protected natural area in Aragón, far surpassing other iconic natural sites in the region. Furthermore, Guara is part of the Natura 2000 network in two capacities: as a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA) and a Site of Community Importance (SCI). This makes Guara a European benchmark in terms of conservation.
Geological riches. UNESCO Geopark
Guara is also a UNESCO-recognised Geopark, boasting a unique and exceptional geological heritage. Its geological features, such as marine limestone, conglomerates and the ‘mallos’ (rock formations), are listed among the sites of geological interest by the Government of Aragon.
Rich in flora and fauna.
The flora and fauna of Guara are equally exceptional due to its location at a climatic crossroads between the cool, humid environments of the north and the dry, warm environments of the south. The diversity of habitats supports a wide variety of species
of flora and fauna, some of which are at the northern limit of their range in the Pyrenees.
Guara Natural Park is home to a wide variety of mammals, including wild boar, roe deer, foxes, martens, wildcats, weasels, badgers and otters. The rivers and streams of Guara are home to barbel, trout, chub and native crayfish, amongst others. Furthermore, the region is known for its bat population.
Visitors will experience the unspoilt nature and authenticity of the Guara region. Birdwatching is one of the main attractions, as the area is home to an exceptional variety of birds, including scavengers that have made their home here in Europe
here.
A paradise for nature lovers… and for cyclists too. The Sierra de Guara is a paradise for lovers of nature, geology and outdoor adventure. Its unique landscapes, flora and fauna are a testament to its commitment to sustainability and conservation. In short, Guara is a destination that offers you the chance to explore and enjoy nature in its most authentic and sustainable form.
What can cyclists do to promote sustainability in Guara?
As cyclists, we have a significant impact on the sustainability of the environment. Below, I’ve highlighted five things we can all do to help make the Sierra y los Cañones de Guara Natural Park a better, cleaner and more sustainable place.
Here, of course, is a summary of the eight sustainable practices that every cyclist can adopt in Guara:
When you set out to explore the natural beauty of Guara by bike, it is essential to remember the importance of sustainability in preserving this precious environment. Here are eight practices you can adopt to minimise your environmental impact and help
to preserve this natural treasure:
- Responsible cycling routes: Choose established cycle routes and avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing wildlife. If you stray from marked paths to take shortcuts, for example, you will damage and erode the ground and may disturb wildlife. Respect access restrictions in sensitive areas.
- Cleaning and litter collection: Don’t leave any trace of your visit. Always carry a bag with you to collect your rubbish and, if possible, pick up any litter you come across along the way. It is very unpleasant to come across plastic gel bottles, cans and other rubbish in natural landscapes. It weighs more when full, so we can easily take it away empty.
- Sustainable consumption: Support local businesses that promote sustainable practices, buy locally, avoid single-use packaging and, wherever possible, choose locally sourced products.
- Carpooling: If you’re travelling in a group, consider sharing a car to get to Guara. Don’t come with just one or two people per car – it’s very comfortable but not very sustainable, and it’s also more expensive. This will reduce the number of cars on the road and, consequently, carbon emissions. And hey, the journey’s much more fun when you’re travelling with others.
- Respect for wildlife: If you encounter animals whilst cycling, slow down and keep a safe distance. If a startled hare or badger appears in the middle of the path, let it run away; avoid making excessive noise or chasing it, as this can cause stress to local wildlife. Observe wildlife viewing guidelines and try to have a minimal impact as you pass through the area or, if possible, help to improve the environment.
By following these sustainable practices, you can enjoy the beauty of Guara whilst helping to ensure its long-term preservation. Your commitment to sustainability helps to preserve this wonderful natural environment for future generations.
