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The geography of the regions of Spain, it is positioned between Europe
and Africa and as such boasts a range of contrasting natural attractions. The
stretching,
golden
coastline
is, of
course popular with
tourists, but there are many other natural beauties in Spain if the traveller
would like to escape from the coast.
Mountains:
The mountains regions of Spain reach their greatest height at the Pyrenees
in the North and the Sierra Nevada in the South. The former stretches for
440 kilometres
(273) miles with an average height of 2,000 metres (6,400 ft). The Pyrenees
act as Spain's link to Europe with more than 400 protected natural areas
to conserve
the principal mainland. The Sierra Nevada contains the highest peak on
the mainland Mt. Mulhacén, which rises to 3.482 metres (11,425 ft.). This
area is home to peaceful alpine lakes and glaciers. National parks, game
reserves and adventure
facilities are just some of the attractions here.
The 'Meseta' (Central Plateau):
The Central Plateau is the largest in Europe and has always been dominant
throughout Spain's history. It is an agricultural region where the classic
crops of Spain
are grown e.g cereals, grapes and olives.
To the east of the Meseta there is a coastal fringe bathed by the waters
of the Bay of Biscay. This area is known as 'Green Spain', a wet area producing
a wide
range leafy, woodland vegetation.
Green Spain:
The ocean and mountain come together in this region to create a wet climate
where green vegetation flourishes. In the north of Spain, the Basque Country
contains
meadows, beaches and winding paths to hilltop retreats. The fishing harbours
here have kept their strong local flavour and can be seen as an example
of traditional Spain.
On the north-west tip, Galicia possesses an indented coastline with fjord-like
inlets known as rías, which allow the sea to penetrate far inland,
washing up against numerous towns and cities.
Inland areas
The Meseta, opens out onto another of Spain's most impressive areas of
scenery. Running along the centre, a mountainous region cuts the land into
two well-defined
physical and historical units.
The areas of Castile & León, Castile-La Mancha and La Riojam,
along with the farmlands of Extremadura, offer the traveller spectacular
views with
wide open horizons, great fields of wheat, river valleys, and tiny villages.
The cities here are steeped in history, with many art and monumental sights
to see.
The Mediterranean coast:
Further away from the coast typical farmhouses (masías) and vineyards
can be seen. Moving south there is a new color with orchards of oranges,
lemons and almond groves.
On reaching Andalusia, past olive groves and salt marshes, the sun dazzles
on the towns and beaches of sparkling white. The soaring mountains of the
Alpujarras
and Sierra Nevada offer a contrast between the desert dunes of Almeria.Even
further south, in the Atlantic ocean, the lunar beauty of the Canary islands
is on offer.
Spawned by volcanic activity the unique landscapes characterized by dense
forest, high volcanoes and barren desert.
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