Exploring Gran Canaria
A Journey Through Time in Los Tilos de Moya
Los Tilos de Moya: a mystical laurel forest
Located in the northwestern part of the island, this ancient and mystical laurel forest offers a mesmerizing glimpse into a bygone era. Get ready to step back in time and explore a land where nature reigns supreme.
Entering the Time Machine
Your journey through time begins at the start of a path at the Barranco del Laurel, where the ravine rises towards the sky, winding its way through rugged slopes. With just a few steps, you'll find yourself transported to another epoch, an echo of the past known as the Selva de Doramas. Named after the valiant indigenous leader Doramas, this lush and expansive laurel forest once covered vast areas, creating an otherworldly green oasis.
A Living Vestige
Los Tilos de Moya is a living relic, a survivor of time that envelops visitors in a verdant tapestry. This laurel forest is home to creatures that move with the stealth of those guarding a great secret. As you wander, you might catch a fleeting glimpse of a robin, a canary, or a common chaffinch darting through the air.
In the sky, the majestic kestrel commands the heavens, tracing graceful arcs against the blue expanse above.
Guardians of the Forest
The laurels, barbusanos, palo blancos, tiles, and viñátigos stand tall, a proud legacy of the mythical Selva de Doramas. They form a protective canopy, creating an environment where you wouldn't be surprised to find a fairy flitting among the flowers or a goblin lounging on moss.
In this magical locale, as local poet Tomás Morales (1884-1921) once eloquently remarked, the soul regains its "original purity." Every step in this ancient forest immerses you in an atmosphere where fantasy seems to come alive.
The Enchanted Flora and Fauna
As you walk through this mystical woodland, keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna that call it home. The delicate camellias bloom, while resinous laurels and dense underbrush provide shelter for myriad species of birds and insects. Occasionally, you might stumble upon the rare "dry love" flower, a peculiar plant with its own fascinating story.
The Ancient Laurisilva Forests: A Journey Through Time and Nature
The laurisilva forest, an enchanting remnant of ancient woodland, is a relic of the Tertiary period. Comprising predominantly evergreen trees and shrubs with dark green, flat leaves, these forests existed long before modern civilizations set foot on these islands. Covering extensive areas, primarily on northern and southern slopes at various altitudes, these forests thrive in regions with specific climatic conditions.
These laurisilva forests are thoroughly protected under regional, national, and international laws and form part of designated natural park areas. Recognized as priority habitats, they are essential under the European Union's Habitat Directive, with many species protected by specific community guidelines.
The landscape is dominated by remarkable laurel trees, which can reach heights of up to 40 meters. The dense canopy creates a unique atmosphere, with minimal light penetrating through, evoking a mystical feeling. Walking through these forests feels like stepping into another world.
Alongside the majestic laurel trees, the forest is home to a diverse array of plant species. Ferns climb tree trunks, and moss covers much of the ground surface. These richly vegetated areas also provide a habitat for numerous bird and butterfly species. Visitors are encouraged to allocate sufficient time to explore the forest, as every corner holds new discoveries.
The term "laurisilva" derives from the Latin words "laurus" (laurel) and "silva" (forest). This name describes the distinctive laurel forests found in certain regions. The laurisilva forests in these islands have survived due to their specific climatic conditions and geographic isolation, preserving a significant piece of natural history.
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