We have already said that Vista Alegre Park is part of the Blue Green Ring, but what is that ring? In short, it is a green structure. Its objective is to preserve the biodiversity and natural heritage of the natural spaces of Zarautz. In addition, the itinerary connects the sea with the mountain.
It is also part of the Natura 2000 Network (the most important nature conservation instrument created by the European Union in 1992). This ecological network consists of Europe’s Special Conservation Areas (ZEC) to ensure the survival of valuable species and habitats.
The park of Vista Alegre is located in the ZEC Garate-Santa Barbara. So, you can ask yourself -- and what are the species and habitats that you want to protect and value here? Let's see if you've been right... It is about strengthening and recovering the alcornocals. Please note that here we have the largest cork population in the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country. Of the 20 hectares occupied by cork oak trees in the Community, 15 are located in the Garate-Santa Barbara ZEC. This honour is shared by the municipalities of Zarautz and Getaria, with 43% of the area of the protected area in Zarautz and 57% in Getaria.
Like all plans, the ZEC has some objectives and the most important are the improvement of the structure of the cork oak trees and the diversity of native species and the increase of their area by 46 hectares. Isn't it a slow job, right?
These projects need collaboration, and here, in addition to the City Hall, the association of residents of Vista Alegre, Arkamurka Natur Elkartea, the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa and the Basque Government are also carrying out initiatives that are compatible with the protection of biodiversity, without giving up the historical origin of the park. Maybe you've seen yourself taking out invasive exotic plants, planting young cork nuts or forming living fences that we'll see later on. You will notice that since 2019 various works have been done to renovate the park, for example, the ground your feet will tread on the road of the park, the turret you are going to visit and the sports area and the playground you will enjoy.
Let's go on. Later we will be able to see the result of the combination of art and nature.
