By Cristiane Savickas, contributor
Aracena, Huelva
In the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park, in Huelva, environmental conservation and traditional activities advance hand in hand. This protected area, which hosted the “Nature Without Borders” Ecotourism Festival in June, demonstrates that it is possible to preserve natural resources while generating economic opportunities for the local population and combating rural depopulation. Iberian pig breeding, family farming, artisanal production, hiking and ecotourism are part of a model that invites visitors to discover the entire process that gives rise to some of the most emblematic products of Spain.
The experience begins in the dehesa, an agroforestry system considered one of the best examples of balance between nature and human activity. According to Javier Muriel, co-founder of the Holistic Nature school of human ecology, this ecosystem exists thanks to centuries of responsible interaction between people and the territory. “It is not a forest despite the human being, but a forest also thanks to the human being,” he says, describing a landscape where traditional management favors biodiversity, reduces the risk of fires and guarantees rational use of natural resources.
In this environment, the production of Jabugo Iberian ham takes place, considered one of the most environmentally friendly in Europe. The animals live in freedom and during the montanera they feed on acorns and natural grasses, following a slow growth cycle that respects animal well-being and the balance of the ecosystem. The visit allows you to tour the entire production chain, from the pasture to the drying rooms, where the hams are cured through natural ventilation, opening and closing windows according to weather conditions, without resorting to artificial systems of high energy consumption.
The tour concludes with tastings of artisanal hams and sausages.
Goat farming is also part of this proposal. Visitors can learn about the herds and even participate in workshops to make artisanal cheese with their own hands. In addition to providing greater value to local production, this activity keeps traditional crafts alive. At the same time, goats take advantage of natural pastures and contribute to the control of vegetation, helping to prevent forest fires.
The tourist offer is completed with one of the largest hiking networks in Andalusia. The park has more than 60 signposted routes that exceed 600 kilometers and allow you to explore forests, pastures and historic towns through a tourist modality with low environmental impact.
Another attraction is the Grotto of Wonders, an example of how to make the protection of natural heritage compatible with tourist activity. Limited access, delimited routes and guided tours help preserve the delicate balance of this underground ecosystem.
The historical wealth expands the experience with enclaves such as the Roman City of Turóbriga and the Almonaster la Real Mosque. While the archaeological site preserves important vestiges of the Roman presence, the mosque constitutes one of the best preserved examples of the Islamic legacy in Andalusia.
“There is no showcase rural tourism here; we continue to be an authentic mountain range, with its ways of life and its identity,” highlights historian José Francisco González, director of Vestigia Travels.