La Cabrentà Nature Park (Estubeny)

“La Cabrentà” Municipal Nature Park is located on the right bank of the Sellent River, at the foot of the town of Estubeny. It is a labyrinth of broken limestone rocks, of caves with stalagmites, stalactites and curtain formations and the park is dotted with springs, waterfalls and crystal-clear pools, which with the passing of the centuries have shaped a surprising collection of geological formations.

The conditions in this especially moist microclimate, resulting from the underground waters flowing from the Caroig Massif, have also fostered the formation of one of the few examples of a Mediterranean rainforest found in the Valencian Community. You will find laurels and Mediterranean hackberry trees that reach heights of up to twelve metres, which are not found anywhere else in the region of Valencia. Ferns and ivies cover a large part of the space and give it the appearance of a true rainforest.

The Cabrentà Park, protected by a small gorge and accessible by crossing a small cave, is home to a total of ten species of protected plants. A paradise for the many animal species that frequent it, where the songs of many birds can be heard, such as nightingales, warblers, jays and golden orioles, who are attracted by the shade, the cool and the varied forest fruits. It became a Municipal Nature Park by order of the Valencian Regional Government on 2 April 2004.

We must add that this wonderful site which is accessed by crossing a narrow gorge and a small cave, has been kept isolated from human action and is home to ten plants species which are protected due to their rarity or because they are endangered. Visitors can view them all here without difficulty and with proper guidance. As for the wildlife, this is an exceptional place for listening to the numerous bird species that come attracted by the varied wild fruits. The explanatory panels installed throughout the park will facilitate visits and provide visitors, adults and children alike, with a better knowledge of the natural assets found in the area. On the other hand, an eco-trail installed for the enjoyment of visitors, will guide them through this labyrinth of plants and allow them to enjoy a walk that they will find difficult to forget.