Walking route
Laguna de la Mata.


Anyone who thinks the Costa Blanca is all beaches and concrete is mistaken. Just off the Torrevieja coastline lies a spectacular nature reserve: Las Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja. During this walk, you'll discover that Laguna de la Mata is much more than just a saltwater lake. It's a place steeped in history, rare birds, and mysterious structures.
Distance: 7 km.
Time: 2h00.
Grade: Easy.
Type: Circular.
Gps Track: Yes.
Route description: No.
Wheelchair: Not suitable.
Dog: Allowed on leach.
Height gain: 89 meters.
Trail: 97% unpaved.
Marking: None.
Hiking shoes recommended.
Vineyards and Palomares.
The route starts at the visitor center and goes to the Mirador del Altillo, from where you have a beautiful view of the green-blue Laguna de la Mata. Then, you'll almost immediately encounter a surprise: vineyards. You might wonder how grapes can survive in this salty soil? These are the vineyards of La Mata. The grapes grown here (primarily Merseguera and Moscatel) are unique. Because the soil is so sandy, the infamous phylloxera epidemic in the 19th century couldn't take hold of the roots here. As a result, there are still vines that are literally centuries old. The salty sea breeze gives the wine a unique, slightly saline character. The path then leads you to the Cigüeña (crane) bird hide. Even if you're not a seasoned ornithologist, this is a beautiful spot to enjoy the tranquility. The lagoon is a crucial stop for migratory birds. With a bit of luck, you'll see pink flamingos wading majestically through the shallow water, searching for small shrimp (which give them their pink color). Further inland, you'll come across characteristic, green-painted stone towers. These are palomares (pigeon coops). They once served a dual purpose. Firstly, keeping pigeons was a source of meat and eggs. But even more important was the columbina (pigeon manure). In the poor, sandy soil of this region, it was invaluable as fertilizer for the vineyards and vegetable gardens. The route returns towards the waters of Laguna de La Mata. Here you'll find the La Pinada lookout tower. Hidden among the fragrant pine trees, this tower offers a panoramic view of the lake's greenish waters. The contrast between the white salt at the edges, the green trees, and the blue sky is truly stunning on a sunny day, but the sunset is even more beautiful.
Download PDF for map.
POI 1 - Parque Natural Las Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja.
The Las Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park is a protected natural area of over 3,700 hectares, located in the Vega Baja region of the province of Alicante. It consists of two saltwater lagoons: the green-colored Laguna de La Mata and the pink Laguna de Torrevieja, which together form an exceptional ecosystem of great importance for migratory birds and local flora. The lagoons were formed through natural and human-induced processes, with a long history of salt extraction that has taken place here for centuries. The combination of salt extraction and nature conservation makes this area a unique Mediterranean wetland landscape where you can hike, birdwatch, and learn about saltwater ecosystems.
Additional information:
www.queverentorrevieja.com





















































