Nestled in the foothills of the Picos de Europa in Asturias, Wild Finca is demonstrating how nature can flourish when space is given to recover. Over the past eight years, the 13-hectare former dairy farm has been transformed from overgrazed pasture into a thriving mosaic of wildflower meadows, ponds, woodland edges and wildlife corridors, creating an important refuge for biodiversity in northern Spain. 

Rewilding in Green Spain

Founded by wildlife storytellers and conservationists Luke Massey and Katie Stacey, Wild Finca was established in 2018 with a vision to restore both the landscape and people's connection to nature. Situated within one of Spain's most biologically rich regions, the project demonstrates how smaller-scale rewilding initiatives can contribute to ecological recovery while complementing the wider natural landscapes of Asturias and the Picos de Europa.

What was once managed pasture has evolved into a diverse habitat supporting an extraordinary range of wildlife. Wild Finca has recorded more than 113 bird species and over 30 mammal species, including 16 species of bat, alongside reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and native flora. Seasonal visitors include red-backed shrikes, European nightjars, woodcock and redwings, while resident wildlife ranges from roe deer and red squirrels to hedgehogs, salamanders and emerald lizards.

A Haven for Wildlife

The surrounding region is already recognised as one of Europe's most important wildlife destinations. Asturias is home to species such as the Cantabrian brown bear, Iberian wolf, Cantabrian chamois and a variety of birds of prey, including vultures and goshawks. By creating a patchwork of habitats and allowing natural processes to play a greater role, Wild Finca provides additional feeding, breeding and shelter opportunities for many species that move through the wider landscape.

The project's approach combines habitat restoration with careful land management. Rotational grazing systems, the protection of wildflower areas and the creation of ponds have encouraged increasing numbers of insects, amphibians and other wildlife. Recent years have seen growing populations of species including glow worms, wasp spiders, marbled newts and Iberian singing frogs, demonstrating the ecological benefits that can emerge when habitats are restored.

Connecting People with Nature

Alongside its conservation work, Wild Finca aims to inspire greater engagement with the natural world through educational resources, nature experiences and community outreach. The project is rooted in the belief that ecological restoration and human wellbeing are closely connected, encouraging visitors and followers to discover how even small spaces can support biodiversity and foster a deeper appreciation for nature. 

As interest in nature-based travel continues to grow, Wild Finca offers an inspiring example of how conservation, biodiversity and rural life can come together in the heart of Green Spain. While modest in scale, the project highlights the remarkable wildlife, landscapes and environmental initiatives that continue to shape Asturias as one of Spain's most distinctive nature destinations.

For all press enquiries contact Jessica Harvey Taylor on Jessica.harvey@tourspain.es or the Spanish Tourist Office’s PR agency LOTUS on spain@wearelotus.co.uk.

The Blue Flag is one of the most recognised international markers of coastal excellence, awarded to destinations that meet strict criteria across water quality, environmental management, accessibility, and safety. Beaches must undergo regular monitoring and demonstrate high standards not only in cleanliness but also in the services and infrastructure provided to visitors, from lifeguards and first aid to environmental information and responsible management practices. 

Spain’s performance in 2026 represents its strongest result to date, maintaining a leading position globally and accounting for approximately 15% of all Blue Flag beaches worldwide. This continued success places Spain ahead of other major European destinations such as Greece, Italy, France, and Portugal, reflecting a sustained commitment to coastal management and environmental standards.

The breadth of Spain’s coastline is a key part of this appeal. From the Atlantic shores of Galicia and Asturias to the Mediterranean beaches of the Valencian Community and Andalusia, the country offers a wide variety of coastal experiences. Visitors can choose from well-equipped urban beaches, family-friendly stretches with full facilities, or more natural and undeveloped areas, all underpinned by consistent quality standards.

Spain’s beaches also remain publicly accessible by law, ensuring that these high-quality coastal environments can be enjoyed widely. This accessibility, combined with the country’s extensive coastline and strong tourism infrastructure, contributes to its enduring popularity as a leading sun-and-sea destination. 

Many Spanish beaches have also demonstrated remarkable consistency within the programme, with some maintaining Blue Flag status continuously since it expanded internationally in 1987. This long-term recognition reflects not only natural assets but also ongoing investment and collaboration between municipal, regional, and national authorities. As demand grows for destinations that combine natural beauty with safety, accessibility, and sustainability, the Blue Flag continues to offer a trusted benchmark for travellers. 

Spain’s record-breaking results in 2026 highlight its ongoing commitment to responsible tourism, ensuring that its coastline remains both protected and accessible for future generations. 

For all press enquiries contact Jessica Harvey Taylor on Jessica.harvey@tourspain.es or the Spanish Tourist Office’s PR agency LOTUS on spain@wearelotus.co.uk.

Green Spain has secured funding from the Spanish Government to become the largest ecotourism corridor in Europe. This initiative will make it possible to establish a network of agents within the regions, provide training to tourism companies as well as design and create experiences, products and services based on green and sustainable models. More than 10 associations and 250 tourism companies, located in the protected natural areas of Green Spain, will be able to participate in training courses and obtain ecotourism certifications. The funding will go towards promoting responsible tourism throughout the year 2023.

For more information, visit https://www.ingreenspain.es/en/home-en.html

The hub is dedicated to demonstrating Spain’s sustainable tourism initiatives, such as the Balearic Islands sustainability tourism tax or Murcia’s new eco-tourism routes.

It will also showcase the incredible geographic diversity of Spain, highlighting some lesser-known areas of the country. The hub will inform media, partners, trade and consumers about Spain’s sustainability initiatives under one banner. It will feature news stories, images and videos from the STO -  as well as provide links to relevant press pieces in the trade and national press at the foot of the main page.

Please find the link to the Sustainability hub at the top of the page, titled ‘Sustainability updates’

If you would like content to be featured, please share you articles with Spain@wearelotus.co.uk using the header ‘feature suggestion for Spain’s Sustainability hub’.

For further information on Spain as a visitor destination, please visit www.spain.info or email Spain@wearelotus.co.uk.