Los Ancares (Biosphere Reserve)

Ancares: Spectacular glacial valleys, millenary pallozas, unforgettable hiking. Immerse yourself in virgin nature and ancestral culture.

INFORMATION

📍 Location and contact

• Address: Technical Office of the Biosphere Reserve of the Leonese Ancares (Calle la Calleja, 23, in the Multipurpose Building, 24430 Vega de Espinareda, León).
• Web:
  • Leonese Ancares Biosphere Reserve (RBALE): Official page of the managing entity with details on the natural and cultural heritage of the whole area, including the castro. https://www.ancaresleoneses.es/
  • Ancares Bierzo Rural Tourism Association: A portal with general tourist information about the region, routes, and accommodations. http://ancaresbierzo.com/
• Phone: 987 564 907 (Technical Office of the Leonese Ancares Biosphere Reserve)
• Email: info@ancaresleoneses.es 
• Social media:
  • Facebook: Leonese Ancares Biosphere Reserve – usually posts news, events, and general information about the reserve’s heritage, including the castro. @ancaresleoneses
  • Instagram: Peranzanes Town Hall – sometimes shares content related to the municipality and the castro. @aytoperanzanes
  • X (formerly Twitter): Leonese Ancares Biosphere Reserve – also active for news and dissemination of activities in the area. @ancaresleon_rb

🕒 Hours: The "Ancares Biosphere Reserve" is a large natural territory open 24 hours. It does not have a specific “schedule” for general access. However, the different information points and visitor centers within the reserve do have defined hours:

• Office of the Leonese Ancares Biosphere Reserve (Vega de Espinareda): The main administrative office on the Leonese side.
• General hours: Usually Monday to Friday, 9:30 am – 1:30 pm.
• Note: Hours may vary on holidays or specific seasons; it is recommended to call 987 564 907 in advance.

♿ Accessibility: No. Accessibility in the Ancares is varied and, in general, can present challenges due to its mountainous and rural nature, but there are adapted options and accommodations.

• Natural Environment: The area’s topography, with deep valleys and mountain trails, makes many hiking routes and natural areas inaccessible for people with reduced mobility. The terrain is often irregular. However, some routes can be undertaken with the help of specialized equipment such as the joëlette.