Lagoons and Rivers: Life in the Waters of the Parameras

The lagoons and rivers of the Iberian Parameras invite you to enter a territory where nature speaks the language of water. In the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, this jewel is the setting for an unparalleled natural spectacle: lagoons as a source of life in the high moor.

AQUATIC OASIS IN THE MOORLAND

Immersing yourself in the Iberian Parameras is beginning an odyssey alongside the waters that sculpt the land and the spirit. This is a place where water not only gives life, but also tells stories of time and tradition. The rivers Table and Stone, next to lagoons like Gallocanta and Zaida, are more than bodies of water; They are keepers of secrets and refuges for wildlife. Here, each lagoon is a mirror that reflects the beauty of the sky, and each river is a vein that pulses with the purity of nature.

LAGOONS

The moors are synonymous with altitude, cold, wind, a rugged and complicated territory where survival is a challenge. But they are also home to small aquatic oases where a multitude of species find their ideal home.

Coots, herons, cranes, grebes, are just examples of the many birds that you will enjoy from the shores of these aquatic ecosystems.

VIEWPOINTS AND OBSERVATORIES

THE BEST PLACES ACCESSIBLE BY CAR

When we talk about the moors of the Southern Iberian System, we know that we encompass a large territory that occupies part of the provinces of Gadalajara, Soria and Teruel.

Therefore, we leave you here several places that are ideal to visit with your vehicle.

AMAZING PLACES FOR AN OUTDOOR PICNIC

Rest and contemplation are also our travel companions. Get to know and enjoy recreative areas where to make a stop along the way or from where to enjoy a day of observations.

RIVERS

Although the moors are not places where torrents of water have formed large rivers, mainly due to their morphology and orography, we can point out two water courses which stand out because they cross these high lands, leaving deep rocky canyons carved over time. We talk about the Mesa and Piedra rivers.

Mesa River

The Mesa River has sculpted over the centuries a impressive canyon between the Iberian Mountains, becoming a true paradise for nature and adventure lovers.

This place, declared of Tourist interest of Aragon, is home to one of the largest concentrations of griffon vultures in the Iberian Peninsula, and its diversity of birds makes it an ideal destination for wildlife watchers. Vertical walls, exceeding 100 meters high, they offer a spectacular setting for climbing.

In addition, the river, with its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish fauna, invites you to enjoy water and hiking activities along the various marked trails that run through the area. The gallery forests that run alongside the river, together with the juniper and rosemary formations in the mountains, complete a natural environment of great beauty.

Stone River

The Piedra River, famous for the Monastery which bears his name, is another of the great attractions of the region. Along its route, has formed gorges and waterfalls of great beauty, like the well-known Horsetail, which next to the Mirror Lake create a dream landscape.

The Piedra Monastery, with its lush vegetation and historic buildings, is a a must-see place for any visitor. In addition, the Piedra River offers numerous hiking trails that allow you to explore its most remote corners and discover the rich biodiversity of the area.

The spring of the Cimballa's eyes, with its crystal-clear waters, is another point of interest worth a visit. The combination of nature, history and culture makes the Piedra River a unique and fascinating destination.

WATERFALLS

In these arid lands crossed by deep canyons, we can enjoy a multitude of small waterfalls and cascades formed by the main rivers, especially the Mesa River.