Albufera Natural Park

L’Albufera Natural Park is a true urban oasis just 10 kilometres from Valencia. Lose yourself among its woodlands, stroll through its natural dunes and be amazed by the hundreds of birds that visit the area throughout the year. Herons, flamingos, cormorants, gulls, terns and different species of ducks inhabit its wetlands, recognised as a Ramsar site and an SPA (Special Protection Area for birds). Nature in its purest state, right on the edge of the city.

The vast freshwater lake — the largest in Spain — from which the park takes its name is surrounded by rice fields. It was here that, one day, local farmers came up with a unique recipe: paella. The tradition of rice cultivation is still very much alive, as is fishing in L’Albufera. Old barracas (traditional farmhouses) and alquerías dot a landscape that shifts in colour from golden to vibrant green depending on the farming cycle. A setting where time seems to stand still.

You can explore the park at your own pace and enjoy a complete visit, including a boat trip and a delicious paella in El Palmar.

Why visit L’Albufera Natural Park

✓ It is the place where paella was invented and an ideal spot to taste authentic Valencian paella, perfect to enjoy with friends or family

✓ It is an important wetland, recognised as a Ramsar site, home to numerous endemic and endangered species

✓ It is a true birdwatching paradise, providing refuge for more than 300 bird species

✓ The park features a wide variety of ecosystems, from marshlands to Mediterranean forests and unspoilt beaches

✓ It is renowned for its spectacular sunsets, which bathe the lake in red and golden hues, creating a magical atmosphere

What to do in L’Albufera Natural Park

✓ Boat trip

One of the experiences you simply can’t miss in Valencia. Traditional boats known as albuferenc take you through marshlands and birdlife on trips lasting around 40 minutes. At sunset, the lake is tinged with red and golden tones, creating a truly magical atmosphere. This is the most popular time for the excursion, so be sure to book in advance. Most boat trips depart from the Gola de Pujol jetty. You can also set off from the harbours of El Saler, Catarroja, Silla, Sollana and El Palmar, which tend to be less crowded.

✓ Cycling routes

Not only is it very easy to reach L’Albufera by bike from Valencia, but you can also choose from several cycling routes within the park. Feel the sea breeze as you pedal between rice fields or along the narrow coastal strip known as La Devesa.

✓ Birdwatching

At the Racó de la Olla Interpretation Centre you can learn more about the different bird species that visit the park. Afterwards, try to spot some of them from the viewpoints and observation hides with panoramic views. Autumn is the time of year with the highest concentration of birds. You can get there on EMT bus lines 24 or 25, getting off at stop 2169 Pinars – Carretera del Palmar. You can also join guided tours with the Valencian Community Birding Guides Association.

✓ Savour a paella

You can’t leave L’Albufera on an empty stomach. Both along the lakeshore and in the village of El Palmar you’ll find plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy rice dishes and other local specialities such as all-i-pebre (eel stew) or llisa adobada (marinated mullet). Simply follow your nose. In some places, you can watch how paella is prepared and even pick up a few tips to try it at home.

What to see in L’Albufera Natural Park

✓ Tancats (artificial wetlands)

There are several artificial wetlands or tancats within the park, such as La Pipa, Mìlia and L’Illa, which can be visited by prior booking. The Tancat de La Pipa covers 40 hectares of former rice fields that were transformed into a biodiversity reserve in 2007. The dense vegetation acts as a natural filter, improving water quality and creating ideal aquatic habitats. To arrange your visit, email visitas@tancatdelapipa.net or call +34 608 746 865.

✓ Fish market

Eels, sea bass, blue crabs, carp, mullet… the sight of hundreds of gleaming specimens freshly caught in L’Albufera at the El Palmar fish market is truly impressive. The fishing tradition on the lake dates back to the 13th century, when the Fishermen’s Community was founded and still plies these waters today. If you want to buy fresh fish, it’s best to call ahead and place your order on +34 96 162 03 47. It is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 14:30 and on Saturdays until 13:00.

✓ Unspoilt beaches

The beaches along the L’Albufera coastline are a haven for relaxing in the sun and strolling among natural dunes and wild vegetation. You can choose from several, such as L’Arbre del Gos, La Devesa, El Saler or La Garrofera.

How to get to L’Albufera Natural Park

You can get there by public transport using EMT city bus lines 24 and 25.
Line 24 connects Valencia city centre with El Palmar, and line 25 with El Perellonet, on a journey of less than one hour. Both lines are free with the Valencia Tourist Card.
You can get off at the Embarcadero or El Palmar stops and take the opportunity to enjoy a traditional boat trip on the L’Albufera lagoon.