Did you know that at north of the province of Soria there are big holly woods, making it a European center for this plant used for Christmas decorations?
I admit that I did not know that in the mountains of the region of the Highlands of Soria At this time the colorful holly trees are the main protagonists, which I have yet to visit.
Various events take place around its collection, such as Christmas markets, workshops for decorating homes with holly and, of course, hiking routes to see the holly trees and its landscapes.
The holly It is a not too large tree, as it does not reach more than seven meters in height.
During the autumn season the hollies are filled with their characteristics berries known as cuckoos, which, together with their serrated leaves, make up a very popular element for the aforementioned Christmas decorations.
The holly trees extend through lush forests so that the paths run under natural canopies of branches.
Of course, it is a protected species, so it can only be collected with the permission of the Ministry of Environment for the Castilla and leon meeting.
In the period of just over a month starting November 15, in the acebales of the Soria Highlands About 1.600 kilos of holly branches are collected, which are sold labeled as Oncala Holly o Soria Holly.
How to get to Oncala and Garagüeta Acebales
To be able to see the hollies in their natural environment of Soria, you have a couple of options in the north of the province, just over an hour from the capital, taking the N-111 in the direction of Logroño.
On the one hand, go to the population of oncala, where also on December 5 and 6 the Oncala Holly Fair, during which the town is decorated with large trees, garlands or wreaths of holly.
In addition to being able to participate in holly craft workshops, you can tour the holly forests starting from the Oncala port, 1.454 meters, and making a route of about six kilometers that runs through those natural vaults that, due to their luxuriance, are used for shelter by animals in the area, such as birds, deer or wild boars.
If you dare to approach the Soria Highlands for see the hollies and you are interested in participating in any of these activities, you can find out more about the organized hiking routes by calling 975 39 80 73 Living Paths.
How to see the Garagüeta holly
Alternatively see the Garagüeta holly, considered as the largest holly forest in Spain and southern Europe, where you must arrive via the aforementioned N-111 heading north from Soria.
In the town of Arévalo de la Sierra, near the town hall, you find the Garagüeta Acebal Park House, where you have all the information about this peculiar natural environment and you can hire the visits organized by The Acebarillo.
Finally, I tell you that there are also holly forest areas in other locations such as Castilfrío de la Sierra o The Villages.
I hope it doesn't take long to visit the acebales!
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