Sanabria Lake Natural Park, Natural park with glacial lake in Zamora, Spain.
Sanabria Lake Natural Park is a protected area in Zamora containing the largest glacial lake on the Iberian Peninsula. Mountains and forests surround the water, while more than 20 smaller lakes are scattered throughout the region.
The park received protected status in 1978 to preserve its geological formations. Ice age glaciers shaped the valleys and cirques that define the landscape today.
The Cistercian monastery near the lake reflects medieval religious life set within a natural environment. For local communities, the area has long held meaning as a place connected to both spiritual practice and mountain traditions.
The lake has four designated beach areas for swimming: Arenales de Vigo, El Folgoso, Custa Llago, and Viquiella. Summer is the best time to visit, when trails are easy to walk and weather conditions are mild.
Around 142 bird species live here alongside larger mammals such as wolves and otters. Oak, holly, and yew forests provide habitat and food for these animals.
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