Shepherding

A relaxing morning in the company of sheep

A shepherd with his sheep, the countryside and the gentle sound of sheep bells… can you imagine anything more soothing? We invite you to follow in the footsteps of Merino sheep, for whom the lambing season extends throughout the year, and the finest examples of which are selected to restock the herd. You’ll also be able to lend a hand to the sheep shearers in May, when the precious fleeces of 100% pure Merino wool are prepared for export to foreign markets, and learn about the importance of weighing the livestock to improve the gene pool of the breed. And of course we’ll spend a moment of tranquillity in contemplating the herd as they amble about their pasture, a perfect opportunity to reflect and switch off.

We will learn how in traditional extensive shepherding it is essential to continually move from estate to estate in search of new pasture to avoid exhausting the available plant life, thereby preserving biodiversity and the health of the herd. The livestock travel along the pathways established by the age-old traditions of the Mesta (an ancient council of shepherds) and cross fields and towns oblivious of the modern era. Did you know that every year more than 1,000 sheep negotiate the bridges and streets of Cordoba in search of new grazing between Sierra Morena and the rolling countryside of the campiña?

Cordoba leads the way in heads of livestock in Andalusia, and animals represent one of the main sources of income for farming in the province. Cordoba also stands at the forefront of organic farming in Andalusia, with almost 100,000 animals, of which 70,000 are cattle. Among these is the Merino breed of sheep, famous for its high-quality wool and meat, and the singular black Merino breed, which is in danger of extinction but is being successfully reared by enthusiastic breeders in Cordoba.