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Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja

N-332, La Mata, Comunidad Valenciana

Description

The Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja are two lagoons used for salt production since the 15th century and artificially connected to the sea to that end. They are located in the region of Vega Baja del Segura, near the southern end of the province of Alicante. The lagoons can have a pinkish colour (due to the algae inside) and form part of a protected natural area that also includes marshes and wooded areas of pine forest. It is popular for bird watching with up to 2000 common flamingo during the breeding season such as black-necked grebe, stilts and white jars.

Access & Transport

Torrevieja is located 35km south of Elche and 50km from Alicante. The lagoons are separated by only a couple of kms

Instructions & Recommendations

Best to start a visit at the interpretative center which only opens in the morning up to local lunch time.

Meta review

Very uneven online comments depending on expectations: those who were expecting strong pink felt cheated by the internet pictures but those with more sensible expectations and knowledge of the rationale for the pinkish hue tend to be happy with their visit. One recurring word of caution: beware of mosquitoes and bring some repellent spray.

Environmental & Social

Eco-friendly activity that educates visitors about the local ecosystems.

Conclusion

Beware not to fall for the digitally enhanced pictures on the net; instead expect a pleasant natural environment with bird life and, depending on sun and current composition / balance of the lagoons water you may get lucky and get a very photogenic pink hue - or not. Makes for a good half day excursion from Murcia, Alicante or Elche.

Key positive

Scenic natural area

Key negative

Time consuming to get to

Suitability

The various trails / tracks are partially accessible and visitors with reduced mobility may require some assistance

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in August 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Timing for the interpretative center. Closed on 24/25 Dec, 031 Dec/01 Jan and 06 Jan.

av. transport time:0h 50m

est. visit time:1h 30m

Regulated hours

Monday09:00 - 14:00

Tuesday09:00 - 14:00

Wednesday09:00 - 14:00

Thursday09:00 - 14:00

Friday09:00 - 14:00

Saturday08:00 - 13:30

Sunday08:00 - 13:30

Pricing
Free

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