The Serra da Enciña da Lastra Natural Park extends over 3,151.67 ha in the municipality of Rubiá, in the valley of the river Sil and next to the border with León. It is the youngest natural park in Galicia and stands out for its limestone reliefs, a rarity in the Galician landscape dominated by granite. This geology has favored a great development of cavities, chasms and caves, called "palas" here, as well as cliffs and dry slopes of clear Mediterranean influence. From its viewpoints and routes you can appreciate a landscape of embedded mountain ranges, limestone cliffs, oak groves, thermophilic scrub and the Sil corridor, with especially wide views towards the Penedos de Oulego, Covas and the surroundings of Valdeorras. The park is also a refuge for birds and is home to some of the largest colonies of bats in Spain, which reinforces its natural and scientific interest. It has been declared a Natural Park and is part of the Natura 2000 Network, with restricted access zones and reserve areas. Caving requires authorization or contact with specialized associations, and some sectors are not open to visitors. Its name refers to a historical oak that referred to the hikers, a frequent detail in the local tradition and in the guides of the territory. The best time to visit is usually spring and autumn, when the light enhances the contrasts of the limestone and the weather is milder for walking. In summer it is advisable to avoid the central hours because of the heat and exposure on open slopes.
