Flores: A Natural Reserve in the Heart of Uruguay
Uruguay, known for its culture, gastronomy, and beautiful beaches, boasts a wide variety of tourist attractions, including museums, theaters, and historical monuments. Additionally, Uruguay is home to rich biodiversity, with numerous national parks and natural reserves offering opportunities to explore nature.
Among the country’s various destinations, we find Flores, a department of Uruguay located in the southwest of the central part of the country. It borders to the north and east with the Department of Durazno, southeast with the Department of Florida, south with the Department of San José, and west with the Department of Soriano.
Flores offers a diverse range of natural spaces conducive to adventure tourism, recreation, rest, and tranquility. Its natural grasslands, large lakes north of the department, and the spectacular Flora and Fauna Reserve Dr. Rodolfo Talice allow for an intimate and profound connection with nature.
Flores
In Flores, one can find over 100 species of birds. For instance, the Rufous Hornero, with their oven-like nests, can be seen perched on fence posts; huge colonies of green parrot nests hang high among tall eucalyptus trees, while rheas, locally known as teros, burrowing owls, and elegant tinamous nest in open fields. Royal terns, gray eagles, and falcons soar overhead. In the countryside, one may spot giant rails, roseate spoonbills, and kingfishers, alongside flocks of hermit ibises and white egrets, among many other species. In short, a true paradise for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts.
Beyond its rich fauna, Flores preserves its charming and rich traditions in rural establishments and rooms, offering warm accommodations and excellent typical cuisine. Visitors can participate in representative activities of national agriculture and folklore, as well as go boating, horseback riding, and mountain biking, among other enjoyable options.
Geoparque Grutas del Palacio
Geoparque Grutas del Palacio
Despite being the youngest Uruguayan department and one of the smallest, the lands of Flores are rich in ancient legends and undiscovered archaeological and geological treasures. What are the main attractions to visit in Flores?
Certainly, the Flora and Fauna Reserve Dr. Rodolfo Talice. Flores has a geopark, Grutas del Palacio, which serves as a magical bridge between nature, community, and science, allowing visitors to learn about animals in their natural habitat. Since 2013, the Geopark has been part of UNESCO’s Global Geoparks Network, covering an area of 75 hectares with a large central lake hosting 1,500 animals of 150 species, both native and from various parts of the world.
The Flora and Fauna Reserve Dr. Rodolfo Talice was created as a result of the “Flores por la vida” project and was inaugurated on July 30, 1991, being part of the Grutas del Palacio Geopark.
Museo Historico Departamental Dr. Fernando Gutierrez
Museo Historico Departamental Dr. Fernando Gutierrez
Another attraction to visit is Plaza Constitución, a meeting center par excellence that hosts some of the most important institutions and organizations. The nightlife in this square is another point of attraction, thanks to its fountain and illumination, where even during the Christmas season, numerous decorations can be found.
Finally, the Historical Departmental Museum & Exhibition Center is definitely worth a visit. Located in an old railway station, the building has been transformed into a museum with very interesting contents, including fossils, historical objects, century-old carriages, and much more.
A small but rich destination that offers alternatives for both history and discovery enthusiasts and nature lovers.
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