Raimat to open Spain’s largest vineyard nature reserve

Cava producer Raimat in Catalonia is due to open Spain’s largest vineyard nature reserve, which will be home to over 100 different species of flora and fauna.

Called Raimat Natura, the 700-hectare park is due to open to the public next spring and will be free to visit, offering guests cycling and walking trails. Work is currently underway on the construction of a visitor centre.

Raimat’s lakes, wetlands and vines, where farming practices are 100% organic, have become a refuge and breeding ground for aquatic birds and birds of prey, some of which are endangered species.

The Catalonian estate is a haven for biodiversity and one of the best areas in the northern Spanish region for bird watching.

Visitors may spot Bonelli’s eagles, red kites and marsh harriers, which have all but disappeared across the rest of Europe, and protected species of birds, including the grey heron and European roller, as well as hares, foxes, genets, otters, ferruginous ducks and Spanish terrapins.

“At Raimat, we have managed to integrate the cultivation of vines into their natural environment, respecting the habitats and the species that live there: prohibiting hunting, farming organically, maintaining natural plant cover and replanting deteriorated habitats, along with a long list of other activities that allow many different species to live in harmony on the estate.

“We want to open up this environment to visitors so that they can enjoy a unique experience,” said Raimat’s director, Joan Esteve.

Among the flora that can be found at the reserve are 100-year-old old holm oaks. The park will include a number of tailored routes of up to 50km in length.

The circuit around the lagoon will be adapted to the needs of people with disabilities. All routes include audio-visual content about the species that live there. The reserve will also boast an avenue of grape varieties, allowing visitors to learn more about the grapes that are grown at Raimat.