Vitoria's Green Ring

The Green Belt of Vitoria-Gasteiz (Anillo Verde) is a grand nature park that surrounds the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz in Spain like a continuous ribbon. Spanning approximately 30 kilometers, the system links six large park zones, creating a unique space for recreation and biodiversity protection.

Vitoria-Gasteiz Green Belt. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This project has transformed the capital of the Álava province into the city with the highest amount of green space per capita in Europe. The belt includes parks such as Salburua, Armentia, Zadorra, and others, each boasting its own distinct landscape: from dense forests to invaluable wetlands.

Thanks to a well-designed network of pedestrian and cycling paths, the Green Belt has become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Here, you can find yourself in the wild within minutes without leaving the boundaries of a modern city, making it a true architectural and ecological marvel.

To plan your route through the parks or to visit the ecology center, you can use the official contact details for the Green Belt.

In the Green Belt, everyone will find something to enjoy, whether it's active exercise or quiet contemplation. Cycling is the most popular way to get around. Thanks to hundreds of kilometers of "red paths" (bide gorris), a trip around the belt turns into an exciting journey through ever-changing landscapes.

Be sure to stop by Salburua Park, home to the Ataria interpretation center. From the observation decks here, you can watch majestic storks, red deer, and numerous species of migratory birds. Nature enthusiasts often spot foxes and roe deer here, as they feel safe in these protected territories.

For those who prefer hiking, there are trails of varying difficulty. Along the paths, you'll find rest areas with benches, water fountains, and viewpoints. In the riverside parks, there are cozy spots for picnics, and along the way, you'll always find cafes where it's pleasant to have a cup of coffee while admiring the surrounding tranquility.

You can reach any point of the Green Belt from the city center in just a matter of minutes. One of the most convenient starting points is the famous Plaza de la Virgen Blanca. From here, a picturesque route begins through the Paseo de la Senda, which leads directly to the Armentia forest.

If you plan to visit Salburua Park and the Ataria Center, head towards the eastern part of the city. This area is located near the large Buesa Arena sports complex. City buses regularly run to various entrances of the belt's parks, and a taxi ride from the center is both quick and affordable.

For those who prefer active travel, a bicycle is the perfect option. Vitoria-Gasteiz boasts an extensive network of bike lanes connecting residential neighborhoods with the natural zones. The main information center is located at: La Biosfera Ibilbidea, 4.

The creation of the Green Belt is a triumphant story of ecological restoration. In the 1980s, the area of what is now Salburua Park was under threat of complete destruction; there were plans to drain the wetlands to make room for urban expansion. Fortunately, in the 1990s, priorities shifted toward sustainable development and nature conservation.

Thanks to large-scale regeneration efforts, the region's flora and fauna were given a chance to recover. Today, the Salburua wetlands are not just restored—they are recognized as a site of exceptional importance and are included in the Natura 2000 European network of protected areas.

This project has become a symbol of Vitoria-Gasteiz, transforming it from a typical industrial hub into one of the "greenest" capitals in the world. The successful balance between urbanization and the preservation of natural ecosystems has made the Anillo Verde a benchmark for urban planners across the globe.

The time needed to visit the Green Belt depends entirely on your goals. If you plan to complete the entire 30-kilometer route on foot, it will take 4 to 6 hours. By bicycle, the same journey can be done much faster—in approximately 2–3 hours.

For a more in-depth exploration of specific locations, such as Salburua Park and the Ataria Center, it is recommended to set aside about 2–3 hours. This is enough time to enjoy birdwatching and walk along the well-maintained trails. If your schedule is very tight, even a 40-minute walk through the section of the belt closest to the center will allow you to experience the unique atmosphere of this place.

The Green Belt is open to everyone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Free access to all park areas allows you to plan your walks at any convenient time—from early morning jogs to romantic sunsets surrounded by nature.

It is important to remember that additional facilities, such as the Ataria interpretation center or equipment rental services, operate on their own schedules. They are typically open during daylight hours, so it's best to choose the morning or afternoon for visiting museums and centers.

Exploring the natural wonders of Vitoria-Gasteiz can easily be combined with a stroll through its historical center. Most cultural landmarks are within walking distance of the park entry points, allowing you to create a rich and diverse itinerary for the whole day.

Below are some interesting sites located near the main sections of the belt: