Geotrail: Vallejo Trail and El Monte (Paúl beech forest)

The western and north-western directions of most of the Geopark geological structures (folds and faults) have predetermined some of the environmental features of the area and the traditional uses of the territory by humans over history. They are also the underlying basis for several of the features found both in “Vallejo” and “El Monte”.

“Vallejo” is a long narrow valley (9.5 km long and only 300 m wide) delineated to the north and south by two massive limestone shoals developed on an Upper Cretaceous marl clay formation. The valley is on the north flank of the great Peña Lora syncline and its lands have been used as grazing for livestock and lately also for dry farming because of its characteristics. In Paúl one of the most southerly beech forests in the Cantabrian mountain range is to be found. Climate, biogeographical and geological factors are responsible for the presence of this forest. The great Peña Lora syncline, which rises over 1000 m high, creates a hillside in the shadow on the north face, where this great Atlantic forest develops under optimal conditions.

In only a few kilometres several types of landscapes and environments cover the geotrail: Valdelucio Valley, amazing slopes, limestone cliffs, outstanding landscapes to be watched from Peña Lora and the wonderful Atlantic beech forest in Paúl.

Exceptional elements of the Geopark cultural heritage can also be seen; such is the case of the dry Stone huts in Vallejo.