The Laberinto de Villapresente is located in Villapresente, within the Autonomous Community of Cantabria, Spain. As Spain’s largest hedge maze, it is constructed from over 4,000 meticulously pruned pine and cypress trees. The hedges stand 2.5 meters tall, covering an area of about 5,000 square meters with nearly 4 kilometers of winding pathways.
Inspired by 18th-century British Victorian garden art, the maze was built by Emilio Pérez Carral, a local nurseryman. Facing slow sales of pine trees in 2013, he spent four years transforming the unsold saplings into this maze, solving his economic difficulties and creating job opportunities for his daughter. The entrance features marble reliefs of the ancient Greek mythological figures Ariadne and Theseus, while a statue of Cupid, the god of love, stands at the center, adding a cultural touch.
The maze’s narrow and twisting paths require visitors to navigate between 2.5-meter-high hedges. Although maps are provided, the complex branching routes often lead to confusion. According to Carral, it took him three days to complete the maze alone on his first attempt. The flat terrain makes it suitable for all ages, but those with claustrophobia are advised against entering due to the enclosed space.
Open annually from July to September, the maze provides maps at the entrance, and visitors can follow markers on the hedges for guidance. Surrounding facilities include parking and rest areas. Nearby attractions like the Santillana del Mar and Altamira Caves make it ideal for a day-trip itinerary.
More than just a recreational spot, the Laberinto de Villapresente exemplifies the integration of local ecology and culture. Emilio’s innovative project converted unsold saplings into a tourist resource, boosting the rural economy of Cantabria.
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