Albufera Natural Park is a freshwater lagoon and wetland just south of Valencia, in the Valencian Community of Spain. It is one of the country's most important natural reserves, and for many visitors it offers a welcome change of pace from the city streets.
What to expect
- Boat rides across the lagoon, which give the clearest sense of how wide and open the water is.
- Birdlife, with a range of species to watch from the water or the shoreline.
- Sunsets, which are a favourite reason many people come out here in the evening.
- Traditional fishing villages on the edge of the lagoon, where the local way of life is still close to the water.
The wetlands themselves are the heart of the park. Their calm, reed-lined waterways feel quite different from the coast and the city, and a slow boat trip is the easiest way to take them in.
Food and the local tradition
The area is also known as the birthplace of authentic paella valenciana. Eating paella here, close to where the rice is grown and the lagoon's fishing traditions continue, is a natural part of a visit. Many people plan a long lunch and leave time for a walk afterwards.
Planning your visit
Albufera works well as a half-day or full-day trip from Valencia. Come prepared for the outdoors, bring water and something to protect you from the sun, and allow time to simply sit and watch the light change over the lagoon.