21 Jan La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons Natural Park: trails, walks and outdoor nature
The Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park is one of the most unique natural areas in the south of the province of Alicante. Beyond the famous pink lagoon, this protected environment offers unique landscapes, easy trails and peaceful walks that allow you to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace.
In this article, you will find practical information to
- learn about the park,
- understand what makes it special, and
- discover the best ways to explore it on foot, whether for a stroll, bird watching, or simply enjoying the surroundings.
This guide is designed to help you make the most of your visit with calm and respect for the natural environment.
What is the Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park?
The Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park is a protected area that combines nature, landscape and biodiversity in an environment very close to the city. It is a place designed for walking, observing and enjoying the surroundings without the need for long journeys or effort, ideal for those looking for peaceful outdoor activities.
A protected natural area in the Torrevieja area
This natural park is located in the Vega Baja del Segura region and covers part of several municipalities, including Torrevieja. It forms part of a network of wetlands of great ecological value in the south-east of the peninsula, together with other nearby natural areas.
Its protection reflects its importance as a habitat for numerous species of flora and fauna, especially birds that use these lagoons as a resting, feeding or breeding area throughout the year.
Why it is one of the most unique landscapes in the area
The park consists of two large saltwater lagoons, separated by a strip of land known as El Chaparral, and connected to each other by channels. This system, combined with the high salinity of the water, creates a very unique landscape that is difficult to find elsewhere in the Mediterranean.
The combination of colours, especially the pink tones of one of the lagoons, the salt marshes, the reed beds and the scrubland areas make this a changing and very attractive environment, ideal for walking, photography and nature observation.
A park designed to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace
This park is a place where you can come to walk calmly and enjoy the surroundings. Its paths allow you to stroll effortlessly, stop when you feel like it and observe the landscape at your leisure, without the need to follow a marked route or achieve a specific goal.
No previous experience or special physical condition is required. Just let yourself go, walk at your own pace and enjoy the open, quiet and natural surroundings. It is a space designed for you to disconnect, breathe and take the time to look around, making the walk a simple and pleasant experience for any visitor.
The park’s lagoons: what makes them so special
At the heart of the park are two large saltwater lagoons which, although they share the same origin and function, offer different landscapes and sensations. Understanding their unique characteristics helps to explain why this natural space is so special and why it attracts visitors all year round.
The pink lagoon of Torrevieja and its characteristic colour
The Torrevieja lagoon is known for its striking pink colour, a natural phenomenon that makes it one of the most recognisable landscapes in the area. This colour is due to the high salinity of the water and the presence of microorganisms that thrive in these extreme conditions.
The colour can vary depending on the time of year, the light and the environmental conditions, making each visit different. For this reason, it is one of the most photographed spots in the park and one of the biggest attractions for those who come to visit it.
La Mata Lagoon and its natural surroundings
La Mata Lagoon has a different appearance, with less intense coloured waters and a more open environment for walking. Around it are areas of reeds, rushes and salt marshes that add variety to the landscape and create a striking contrast with the pink lagoon.
This environment is particularly pleasant for leisurely walks, bird watching and enjoying the tranquillity of the park. Its paths allow you to explore the area with ease and stop to contemplate the landscape at different times of the day.
Biodiversity, salt flats and environmental value
Beyond their visual appeal, the lagoons are of enormous environmental value. They form part of a historic salt-producing system that has shaped the identity of Torrevieja and, at the same time, sustains a highly specialised ecosystem.
The park is a key location for numerous species of birds, both resident and migratory, which find food and shelter here. Flamingos, avocets and other species are common at different times of the year, making the park a privileged place for wildlife observation.
This balance between salt production, biodiversity and conservation is what makes the lagoons not only striking, but also ecologically fundamental.
Routes and walks to enjoy the park on foot
One of the great advantages of the Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park is that you can explore it on foot without any previous experience or special preparation. Its routes are designed to allow you to enjoy the surroundings at a leisurely pace, observing the landscape and connecting with nature at your own pace.
Signposted paths and easy routes
The park has a network of well-defined and signposted paths that make it easy to find your way around. Most of these routes run along flat, firm ground, making for a comfortable and safe walk.
Along the way, you will find sections that border the lagoons, salt marshes and more open areas, adding variety to the walk and allowing you to discover different landscapes in a single visit.
Trails accessible to all audiences
The park’s trails are designed for all audiences. They are suitable for:
- People who enjoy leisurely walks.
- Families with children.
- Senior citizens.
- Visitors who prefer relaxed outdoor activities.
These are not long or demanding routes, but rather trails that invite you to stop, observe and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace.
Leisurely walks to enjoy the scenery and photography
Thanks to its spaciousness and lack of steep slopes, the park is an ideal place for leisurely walks. The light, the changing colours of the lagoons and the presence of birds mean that every stretch offers an opportunity for photography or simply contemplating the landscape.
Walking without a specific destination, stopping at natural viewpoints and letting yourself be carried away by the surroundings is part of the experience of visiting this natural space.
Nature and environmental education activities
In addition to walking along its trails, the park offers different ways to approach the natural environment with a more educational focus. These activities allow visitors to learn more about the value of the space, its biodiversity and the importance of its conservation, always from a peaceful and respectful experience.
Interpretive trails and guided eco-trails
At certain times of the year, interpretive trails are organised to help visitors understand how the park works, its history and its natural characteristics. These eco-trails are usually designed for the general public and are conducted at a leisurely pace, making it easy for people of all ages to participate.
During these tours, aspects related to the lagoons, salt production, flora and fauna are explained, offering a more complete view of the environment without the need for prior knowledge.
Birdwatching and wildlife observation in the park
The park is a particularly interesting place for birdwatching. Throughout the year, numerous species use the lagoons as a resting, feeding or nesting area, making a walk through the park a very attractive experience for those who enjoy observing wildlife.
With a little patience and respect, it is possible to spot flamingos, avocets and other birds characteristic of the wetland, especially in the quieter areas and early in the day.
A responsible way to get to know the environment
Participating in these types of activities or simply walking through the park with a respectful attitude is a way to contribute to its conservation. Following the marked paths, respecting the wildlife and avoiding unnecessary noise helps to maintain the balance of the environment.
Getting to know the park from this perspective allows you to enjoy it more and understand why it is important to protect it, making your visit an enriching and conscious experience.
When to visit the park and best enjoy its trails
The Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park can be visited all year round, but each season offers different sensations. Knowing how the season and climate influence the park will allow you to enjoy the environment with greater comfort and tranquillity.
Best time of year to walk around the lagoons
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times to explore the park on foot. During these months, temperatures are mild and the landscape is rich in colour, making walks particularly pleasant.
Winter is also a good option for leisurely walks, while in summer it is best to avoid the middle of the day due to the heat and lack of shade in some areas of the park.
Tips according to the season and weather
To enjoy the park at any time of year, it is advisable to adapt your visit to the weather conditions:
- In spring and autumn, choose the morning or afternoon hours for a more comfortable walk.
- In summer, it is advisable to go out early or at the end of the day, take enough water and protect yourself from the sun.
- In winter, although temperatures are mild, it is advisable to bring some light warm clothing.
Checking the weather forecast before your visit will help you to better organise your route and the necessary equipment.
Recommendations for a peaceful and respectful visita
To fully enjoy the park and contribute to its conservation, it is important to follow some simple guidelines:
- Always walk on the marked trails.
- Respect the wildlife and avoid unnecessary noise.
- Do not leave any rubbish behind or disturb the environment.
- Take your time on your walk, without rushing or taking demanding routes.
This way, you can enjoy the park responsibly, connecting with nature and making the most of the experience.
Practical tips for visiting the nature reserve
Exploring the park is a simple and enjoyable experience, but keeping a few practical aspects in mind will help you enjoy it more comfortably and respect the environment from the outset.
What to bring for a comfortable walk
No specific equipment is required to walk in the park, but it is advisable to be prepared to enjoy the walk without discomfort:
- Comfortable footwear, preferably closed-toe, for walking on dirt paths.
- Water, especially in the warmer months, as there are areas with little shade.
- Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses or sunscreen.
- Lightweight, breathable clothing, appropriate for the time of year.
With these basic items, your walk will be much more pleasant and hassle-free.
Basic rules for respecting the environment
The park is a protected area, so it is important to behave respectfully during your visit:
- Do not stray from the marked trails.
- Avoid disturbing wildlife, especially birds.
- Do not pick plants or disturb the natural environment.
- Always take your rubbish with you.
Respecting these rules helps to preserve the park and allows others to enjoy it in the same conditions.
How to enjoy the park without rushing or crowds
For a more peaceful experience, choose the right time to visit:
- Walking early in the morning or late in the afternoon is usually more pleasant.
- Avoid weekends and public holidays if you are looking for more peace and quiet.
- Take the tour without a fixed goal, leaving room to stop and observe.
Enjoying the park without rushing will allow you to connect better with the environment and make the most of the natural value of the space.
A natural plan to discover another side of Torrevieja
The Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park offers a different way to get to know the area, away from the fast pace of life and focused on observation, walking and connecting with nature. Its lagoons, paths and landscapes show a quieter and more authentic side of the municipality, ideal for those who enjoy unhurried outdoor activities.
Exploring this natural space allows you to discover changing landscapes, learn about its environmental value and enjoy an environment designed for leisurely walks. Whether it’s for a stroll, bird watching or simply to unwind, the park is a simple and accessible way to discover another way of experiencing Torrevieja, closer to nature and the leisurely enjoyment of the surroundings.