Salt Pans (las Salinas) Natural Park in Santa Pola

1. Discover, get to know the Salt Lakes

A landscape formed by salt mining

The history of salt mining in Santa Pola goes way back, possibly even to Roman times, but the current structure dates mainly from the late 19th century.

The process is as simple as it is ingenious: seawater is piped through a network of channels into large, shallow basins. The power of the sun evaporates the water, raising the salt concentration. Eventually, the salt crystallizes and can be “harvested.

What makes this area so ecologically valuable is that the basins remain filled with water throughout the year. This provides a constant ecosystem, unlike some other salt mining areas. The harvested salt is largely used as road salt (yes, maybe on Dutch roads!) and partly for consumption.

A paradise for (water) birds

The constant presence of water, ranging in salinity from nearly fresh to hypersaline, creates an ideal habitat for a huge variety of birds. The park is recognized as a Ramsar Wetland and Special Bird Protection Area (ZEPA). It is a crucial stopping and wintering place for migratory birds.

• Flamingos: the undisputed stars. Depending on the season, thousands of flamingos may reside here (some sources cite up to 8,000!). They get their pink color from the bacteria and algae in their food, including the tiny brine shrimp Artemia;
• Other species: keep your eyes open for avocets, stilts, shelducks, various species of heron (including the egret), terns, and with some luck, the rare marsh duck or crowned duck;
• Food source: the pools are full of small fish (such as the local fartet) and invertebrates, a rich buffet for the birds.

The vegetation consists mainly of salt-loving plants(halophytes) such as glasswort and sedges along the fresher waterways.

2. Experience, what to see and do

Bird watching: the main attraction

This is what most people come for. The best places to observe birds are:

• The visitor center and surrounding area: here are often observation points or trails that take you closer to the pools;
• The N-332: this road runs right through the park. There are several places where you can stop (safely!) to look out over the ponds. Just be aware of the speed limit; violations are quickly fined;
• Torre del Tamarit: this old watchtower on the edge of the park offers an elevated vantage point over the salt flats.

Tip: Bring good binoculars! The birds are often farther away in the large pools. Early morning or late afternoon are usually the best times.

Hiking and cycling

Although the park consists mainly of water basins, there are many hiking opportunities. There are trails around parts of the park and along the connecting canals.

The terrain is flat and hikes are generally easy. Whether there are specific, marked bike trails within the salt flats themselves is unclear, but the surrounding roads and trails are suitable for a bike ride.

The Salt Museum(Museo de la Sal).

An absolute must is a visit to the Salt Museum, located in an old salt factory/mill near the visitor center. Here you will learn all about:

• The process: exactly how salt is extracted from seawater;
• History: the long tradition of salt mining in Santa Pola;
• The Nature Park: information about its unique flora and fauna.

The museum is often the starting point for itineraries and provides a lot of context to what you see outside.

3. Visiting, practical info for your visit

The gateways: Santa Pola and Elche

The park is located directly south of Santa Pola and close to the large city of Elche, known for its palm forest. Both towns offer plenty of amenities.

How to get there.

• Location: the park is bisected by the N-332 between Santa Pola and Guardamar del Segura/Torrevieja;
• Visitor Center & Salt Museum: these are located on the N-332, on the west side of Santa Pola. Follow the signs to the Centro de Visitantes or Museo de la Sal. Parking is available;
• Contact visitor center: Tel. +34 965 938 590 / Email: parque_santapola@gva.es (Check opening hours, often mornings only).

An ideal (half) day trip from the area

The Salines de Santa Pola are very easy to reach from the Costa Blanca South and the Alicante region.

• Santa Pola: the park is right next to the city;
• Elche and Guardamar del Segura: within a 10-15 minute drive;
• Alicante: a drive of about 20-25 minutes;
• Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa: count on a 20-30 minute drive from the north of this area.

Practical Tips

• Best season: birds are there all year, but spring and fall are top months because of bird migration;
• Mosquitoes: especially in the warmer months and at sunset, there can be many mosquitoes. Take anti-mosquito repellent with you;
• Respect nature: stay on the trails, do not disturb the birds and do not leave litter;
• Admission: access to the park (the trails and viewpoints) is free. For the Salt Museum, opening hours and a small entrance fee may apply (check in advance).

Question & Answer