EDEN: European destinations of excellence

Sierra de las Nieves

In 2008, the Sierra de las Nieves became the first Spanish EDEN on the theme “Tourism and local intangible heritage” and was named a National Park in 2021.This region of Malaga was recognised for its tourist integration efforts, while promoting the conservation of its craftwork and traditions.There, you can enjoy routes on foot or on a bike like theMTB route that runs from Puerto Martínez to Jorox, go on birdwatching tours of species like the griffon vulture and the golden eagle, practice beekeeping, enjoy the local gastronomy, particularly its Mondeña soup and countless ecological-cultural activities such as ceramic and painting workshops, oil production and its astronomy nights.

Ebro delta

The Ebro delta became the second Destination of Excellence in 2009 for the theme “Tourism and protected areas” and recognised as a tourist and emerging destination, with nature as the brand's great differentiating element.This area is an example of coexistence between natural and human spaces, where tourism and agriculture play a key role in keeping the environment as pure as possible, while tourism focuses on non-invasive and non-polluting activities.You'll have the chance to enjoy a wide variety of routes on foot, on horseback or by boat; bicycle tourism is one of the main activities in the area with nine routes to explore such as the Fachada fluvial de Deltebre.

A Guarda

The town of A Guarda, in Galicia, is known as “the lobster capital”, and was chosen as an EDEN destination in 2010 for its proposal “A Guarda, natural horizon” on the common theme “Water tourism”. The project, centred on the mouth of the river Miño and its wealth of heritage, archeology and biology, stands out for its sustainable tourism, aware of protecting natural spaces, and developing the traditions of the area. You will be amazed by its fishing port with its Monument to the Sailor, the fish market or the Museum of the Sea, discovering incredible river beaches such as O Muiño, and A Lamiña, all offering top quality cuisine, where their wines with Denomination of Origin are a surefire bet. 

Trasmiera ecopark

The Trasmiera ecopark, in the Cantabrian town of Arnuero, received its EDEN award in 2011 under the theme “Regeneration of physical spaces”, for its development of sustainable tourism and its conservation of local heritage and identity.Its innovative and emerging tourist programme includes great attractions such as Mount Chincho, Quejo estuaries and the Joyel marshland, set against exceptional natural surroundings. The hiking routes, like the route Rio Castellano, will help you get to know the nature of this area while you discover its monuments and enjoy its local gastronomy. 

Sierra de Cañones y Guara Nature Reserve

Winner in 2013 under the theme “Accessibility”, the Sierra de Cañones and Guara Nature Reserve became the 5th EDEN destination in Spain. This protected natural area, the largest in Aragon, will impress you with its imposing ravines. Unsurprisingly, they are a top canyoning site, in addition to being considered the most attractive in Europe. The wild and beautiful nature make it an ideal destination for lovers of adventure sports, like rock climbing. Hiking is another option, with many routes equipped for people with disabilities, or canoeing in the Río Vero Cultural Park, where you can also marvel at its cave paintings declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Goierri region

The Basque project of the Goierri region is located in the heart of Euskadi. “Goierri Gastronomika: Idiazabal Territory” was chosen in 2015 under the theme of “Tourism and Local Gastronomy”.Visitors to this area will be able to attend more than 30 gastronomic and medieval fairs, which help to consolidate Goierri's position as a leading destination for gastronomic tourism. Idiazábal cheese, mondejul, a traditional sausage made from Latxa sheep, and artisanal cider are fundamental elements of the rich Basque gastronomy and you can enjoy them in places like the Goierri Gastronomic Club or the Food and Gastronomy Interpretation Centre. 

Ignatian Land

In 2017, the regions of Urola Garaia, Urola Erdia and Debagoinega received the recognition of excellence in tourism with a proposal focused on sustainable tourism. Among the treasures that Ignatian Land hides treasures is its famous route of the three temples, rich historical heritage that takes you to the 16th century. The route begins in Azpeitia and ends at the Sanctuary of Arantzazu, in Oñati, and during the route you can enjoy 45 kilometres through mountains, hills and the Natural Park of Aizkorri-Aratz Nature Reserve.The Ignatian Way is another must-see in your visit, since you will be able to relive part of the pilgrimage of San Ignacio de Loyola. 

Ambroz Valley

The Ambroz Valley was the winner of the EDEN awards in 2019. A unique place surrounded by mountains and abundant meadows used for native cultivation and incredible natural pools such as La Chorrera.The sustainable management of its mineral and thermal waters together with its landscape and nature mean that the Ambroz Valley is an ideal destination for health and wellness. Another major draw for its visitors is its famous Magical Autumn, held every year and consisting of various activities with which you candiscover its landscapes and nature with your friends or family. If you want more information about EDEN destinations click here to view a list of all the winning Spanish destinations.