Diario ABC
La ruta de senderismo que conecta Burgos con Cantabria: dónde está y cómo llegar
Se trata de una colosal infraestructura ferroviaria de casi siete kilómetros que jamás llegó a utilizarse, construida a mediados del siglo XX por pre…
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Abandoned Railway Tunnel in Spain Transforms into Historic Hiking Path
The Tunnel of La Engaña, an ambitious yet ultimately unfinished railway project originally designed to forge a vital connection between the Spanish cities of Burgos and Cantabria, has now been remarkably transformed into a captivating hiking route. This unique trail is increasingly drawing both adventurous trekkers and profound history enthusiasts to the scenic Pasiego Valleys of northern Spain. Constructed over a demanding period of two decades, primarily through the labor of Republican prisoners, this extensive network of tunnels, which includes an astonishing section nearly seven kilometers in length, was never utilized for its intended purpose. Today, it offers a poignant and unique glimpse into a significant, often somber, chapter of Spanish history, all set amidst a breathtaking landscape where nature has dramatically and beautifully reclaimed human-made structures. Hikers embarking on this truly "unusual route" typically commence their journey at the abandoned Yera train station, a haunting relic of the past nestled deep within the verdant mountains. The trail then guides adventurers through several dark and atmospheric tunnels, where a flashlight is essential, and past the dilapidated barracks that once served as living quarters for the construction workers. The natural environment has progressively enveloped these forgotten passages, with vibrant moss and lush greenery now adorning the ancient tunnel walls, and flowing water carving new, intricate paths. This creates a "magical and hostile" atmosphere that is both awe-inspiring and reflective. While the primary entrance to the longest tunnel is currently obstructed by a geological collapse, the accessible sections provide a profound and immersive experience, seamlessly blending historical reflection with the raw, untamed beauty of the Cantabrian landscape. This site stands as a powerful testament to both human endeavor and nature's enduring power.
