Enjoy nature in Catalonia, discovering protected natural landscapes in all their variety. From natural parks high in the mountains with woods full of richly diverse flora and fauna, to coastal plains right by the Mediterranean Sea, and even marine protected areas. Take a walk through the most frequently visited natural parks in Catalonia, and you’ll find out why so many people come to see what they have to offer.
Delta de l’Ebre Natural Park At the mouth of the Ebre river in the south of Catalonia you’ll find a huge delta that hides many natural wonders and is enjoyed by more than 560,000 visitors each year. You’ll see horizons of rice paddy until you reach the lagoons and salt flats surrounded by reed beds. This is the most extensive aquatic habitat in Catalonia, and is home to more than 400 species of birds, including flamingos and Audouin's Gull. You'll be able to get to know them at close quarters in the specially created bird- watching cabins. A perfect way to learn about the link between the Mediterranean Sea and the Ebre river, and to enjoy the extensive natural beaches and breathe in the scent of the sea.
Aigüestortes i Estanys de Sant Maurici National Park
The second most frequently visited park is the Aigüestortes National Park, located in the heart of the Pyrenees where you can admire the wonderful Sant Maurici lake, which mirrors its surroundings and reflects landscapes that change with the seasons. Walk through forests and meadows at an altitude of between 1,200 and 3,000 metres, always with the sound of water to keep you company as here there are close to 200 lakes and numerous rivers, ravines, waterfalls and wetlands. A feast for the eyes and for the senses.
Cap de Creus Natural Park
Here you can enjoy an area of great geological beauty which also has stunning views over the sea. The landscape of Cap de Creus has been sculpted and transformed by the Tramontana, the strong, cold wind of this area of north-eastern Spain. It joins together two protected spaces, one on land and the other at sea. Cork oaks and pine trees are the most common forms of vegetation in the area, there are many eagles and hawks and rich marine life. A perfect place to admire stunning views from the clifftops, of rocky landscapes sculpted by salt and wind, and the islands and hidden coves dotted along the coast.
Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park If you're looking for a hiking opportunity in a volcanic area without leaving mainland Spain, you'll find a spectacular volcanic landscape in La Garrotxa. This natural park has 38 volcanic cones and more than 20 basalt lava flows. Here you'll find forests of Iberian oak and holm oak, and it’s home to wild boar and Iberian lynx. Walking along the trails you can admire the many different colours and types of earth and rock, from the green of the vegetation to the ochre and maroon of the stone from a dormant volcano.
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