The Natural Park of “S’Albufera,” located in the Bay of Alcúdia, is the largest wetland area in the Balearic Islands, covering approximately 1,700 hectares. It was formed about 100,000 years ago from an ancient lagoon, separated from the sea by a chain of dunes. Thanks to its abundant water supply, the biotope boasts the greatest diversity of species in the archipelago. In 1988, it became the first natural park in the Balearic Islands.
Map and Location
The S’Albufera de Mallorca Natural Park is located in the north of the island, near the municipalities of Alcúdia, Muro, and Sa Pobla.
S’Albufera de Mallorca stretches along the Bay of Alcúdia and is the largest wetland in the Balearic Islands. The park is known for its rich flora and fauna, especially the numerous bird species that can be observed here. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and bird watchers.
This natural paradise in the north of Mallorca is home to around 200 species of birds, such as the water rail, the grey heron, flamingos, and the griffon vulture. In the past, S’Albufera was primarily a site for hunting and fishing. Eels used to be caught here, as young eels spend eight to nine winters in its waters before migrating to the Atlantic. About 10,000 migratory birds from Africa and Northern Europe stop here. Storks can even occasionally be spotted.
There are numerous species of fish (such as eels), large dragonflies, butterflies, amphibians, toads, reptiles, and small rodents. Reptiles, like the European lizard and the viper, also enjoy the swampy terrain. The most common amphibian species are the toad and the green frog. If you don’t manage to see any animals, take solace in the splendid orchids of the wetlands.
Botanists will delight in the more than 400 species of plants. In the flooded areas, reeds, cane fields, and cattails grow. On the coastal dunes, sea daffodils, yellow lins, and marram grass can be found. In areas with high salt content in the soil, glassworts, everlasting flowers, plantain, and orchids thrive. Even the rare spike orchid is present.
From the reed-lined paths and bike lanes, you can observe the park’s elusive inhabitants without disturbing them. Birds are best observed from the camouflaged observation towers. The park has seven birdwatching points. For untrained visitors, the walls of the towers have illustrations of animals frequently seen in the area. Attention: No picnicking is allowed in these towers! For a snack, there are tables around the “Sa Roca” information center.
The entrance to the S’Albufera Natural Park is located at the “Pont dels Anglesos” bridge (Alcúdia-Can Picafort road). It’s best to walk or bike directly to the conservation and information center (approximately a 10-minute walk). There, you will receive a free visit permit (entrance to the park is free) and a map of the area (also available in German). Binoculars can also be rented for a small fee.
The map shows paths for pedestrians and cyclists, observation points, and features of different areas. Important: It is forbidden to leave the marked paths! On the back of the map, you will find an alphabetical list of the most common birds in the park (names in German, Latin, and Mallorcan) and a brief description of the area.
Attention: Walking your dog in the natural park is not allowed; pets must remain outside to avoid scaring the wildlife. Of course, plants should not be picked, nor animals taken.
The opening hours of S’Albufera are from April to September, every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and from October to March, it closes at 5:00 PM. Do you speak Spanish or Catalan? If so, check the current dates for free guided tours and registration requirements (Tel.: 971-89 22 50).
Tip: In your backpack, along with food and drink, don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent!
Advice:
Book in advance a two-hour guided tour with environmental experts (Tel.: +34/971 176 800).
Hours:
From 9 AM to 7 PM (April 11 – September 30), from 9 AM to 5 PM (October 1 – March 30)
Access:
The entrance to the park is located on the Alcúdia to Artà road (C-712), about 6 kilometers from the center of Alcúdia. The “Sa Roca” reception center is approximately 1 kilometer from the entrance.
Other Natural Parks in Mallorca
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