Bosque de la Niebla de Los Llanos del Juncal
In Cádiz, there is a mysterious place which takes you on a journey far back in time, to a world so primitive that man did not yet inhabit the Earth. In the southernmost part of the Los Alcornocales Nature Reserve, between Tarifa and Algeciras, lies the beautiful and incredible landscape of Los Llanos del Juncal and the Bosque de Niebla.
This "laurisilva" or "laurel forest", as this unusual environmental feature is called, appears to have been trapped between space and time. Eighty hectares of vegetation covered by dense mists that are present for 245 days a year and which appears as a botanical 'catwalk' where the wildest nature is presented.
Millions of years ago these great masses of vegetation extended throughout the Mediterranean basin. However, during the Ice Age they disappeared from the face of the earth. Nowadays, this is the only botanical stronghold in the Iberian peninsular where you will find this genuine prehistoric relic which looks like the vegetation on the mysterious Atlantic islands.
The reason this "Bosque de la Niebla" or "Forest in the Mist" has been preserved is the extraordinary humidity of the area which is due to the strong prevailing winds from the west. As the wind strikes the mountain peaks, the clouds descend and the dense mist appear in the highest parts. The concentration of humidity creates a microclimate typical of tropical regions and of those botanical strongholds that seem to be touched by magic and mystery.
The lush vegetation in the area consists of lianas, ivy, moss, ferns and laurel trees. Species that have spread throughout the area by wrapping around tree trunks and covering rocks. Trees like strawberry trees, gall oaks, laurels and cork oaks also coexist, while pink rhododendrons and autumn crocuses add touches of colour to the intense greenery of the forest.
It is quite a complex matter to access this remote area, so it is quite an adventure. The route consists of a shady, three-kilometre trail and to reach the goal takes quite an effort. Good boots and waterproofs are essential if you are looking to make the ascent to this mountainous area on foot and where you will surely be trapped under a blanket of mist and delight.
Unique in these latitudes on the European continent, the environment of the "Bosque de Niebla" deserves special attention as it is a very fragile ecosystem. The area enjoys special protection so those wishing to visit require authorisation.
