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Pino Galapán

, Santiago Pontones

This is a magnificent example of a Corsican pine (Pinus nigra salzmanii), a species known to locals as the pino salgareño. The example here is a living treasure, and at over 400 years old and 39 metres tall it is recognised as one of the giants of Spain’s forests. It is also the most iconic tree in the Segura mountains, and although it may not look particularly spectacular when you view it from the forest track once you walk down along the path and reach the base of the tree you become aware of just how special it is:

only when you are standing next to it can you fully appreciate its proportions. Four or five people would be required to link hands and encircle the Pino Galapán, as its circumference is a whopping 5.4 metres; thanks to such impressive vital statistics it is part of the “Trees: Living Legends" project, a praiseworthy initiative involving the cataloguing of all the outstanding trees in the Iberian Peninsula.

This marvellous Corsican pine survived the intense forestry activities which were commonplace in the park throughout a number of centuries; many of its companions did not, however, and instead became part of the ships which were built for the Spanish Navy between the 16th and 18th centuries. Those were the times in which the Segura mountains were denominated the “Maritime Province”. Nevertheless, the Pino Galapán is still with us and still continues to share its splendour.

 

We recommend…

  • Spending a while sat under the boughs of the Pino Galapán, watching the tumbling waters of the Juan Fría stream and appreciating this natural monument, which for centuries has been the inspiration for legends, stories, narratives and traditions.
  • From here you can continue along the forest track and feast your eyes on the stunning Campos de Hernán Perea, one of the other natural treasures waiting to be discovered in the park: you will not regret it.

 

LOCATION

From Santiago de la Espada take the A-317 towards La Matea, continuing on through the town until you reach the village of Don Domingo. There, follow the forest track (signposted GR 144 and in perfect condition) which will take you in the direction of Rambla Seca and the Campos de Hernán Perea. You will pass over a bridge and arrive at the first crossroads, where the route to the Pino Galapán is indicated to the right. After 2.6 kilometres you will arrive at the site, which is on the right-hand side of the track.

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