If the good weather makes you want to go out and explore new places, a very interesting option could be to go for a walk in nature or better yet, to visit the longest green canal in Europe. Located in the area of Canals d’Urgell, an ideal place for hiking or cycling.
The most incredible thing about this place where you will probably be walking very soon and where the trails go right next to a water channel, is that centuries ago it was only land. Fortunately, everything changed drastically at the end of the 19th century thanks to a hydrographic project that changed drought for humidity.
You should know that, although watering the area had been planned for a long time, to be more precise since the Middle Ages, it was not until 1852 that a wealthy family from Girona built a system of canals that turned the 79,000 hectares of the Urgell region into one of the largest artificially irrigated areas in the European region.
Barcelona and Marseille linked by green energy corridor
The Canals d’Urgell are an ambitious environmental project and one of the longest greenways in Europe. The greenway extends through different regions of Catalonia and consists of 325 kilometers of passable trails. These trails are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, offering a unique experience for nature lovers of all ages. The area is also ideal for recreational activities such as cycling, hiking, athletics, etc.
General description of Canals d’Urgell
The Canals d’Urgell are divided into two main parts: the main canal and the auxiliary canal. The main canal is 144.2 kilometers long and begins in the Segre River, in the town of Ponts, and ends in the same river, in the town of Montoliu de Lleida. The auxiliary canal was built in 1929, and runs from Lleida, near the Segre River, to Coma i la Solana. Together, the two canals create a network of more than 300 kilometers and 75,000 hectares of irrigated land.
The greenway is not only ecologically, but also culturally important, as it has been in operation since the 18th century. It is a living reminder of the history and agriculture of the region.
Exploring the Greenway
Visitors to the Canals d’Urgell can have a great time exploring the trails and the different regions scattered along the canal. The greenway is ideal for an active vacation, offering many recreational opportunities such as biking and hiking. There is also a wide variety of routes available, from short trails through the countryside to long-distance hikes.
The entire Canals d’Urgell area is home to a myriad of breathtaking landscapes, from rolling wheat fields to the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees. Along the roads, visitors will also find numerous sites of cultural interest, such as fortifications and ancient churches.
Activities in Canals d’Urgell
Visitors to the area can choose from a host of recreational activities. Cycling is perhaps one of the most popular, as it offers cyclists a wide variety of routes to explore the greenways. Alternatively, visitors can also experience the area through walks, hikes and excursions. There are also many different routes, from short and easy to longer and more difficult ones. The region is also ideal for bird watching, as it is home to some of the largest vulture colonies in Europe.
Lodging options
In the Canals d’Urgell there are many accommodation options for all tastes and budgets. There are luxury hotels and resorts, as well as budget hostels, lodges and campgrounds. In addition, visitors can also rent villas, apartments and vacation homes in some of the nearby towns and villages.
Conclusion
The Canals d’Urgell are an ecological and cultural paradise that offers something for everyone. With its extensive network of trails, stunning nature and recreational opportunities, it is no wonder that this greenway is one of the longest in Europe. So why not plan a trip and experience the wonders of the Canals d’Urgell?
[ News source: https://www.traveler.es/articulos/canal-durgell-rutas-a-pie-bicicleta-lleida ]
