Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park, Natural park with two salt lagoons in Torrevieja, Spain.
Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja is a protected wetland area consisting of two large salt lagoons connected by artificial channels to each other and the Mediterranean Sea. The site features basins of varying sizes, reed zones, and shallow water surfaces that support numerous migratory bird species.
Salt extraction in these lagoons was first documented in 1321 when the Crown granted the area to Orihuela. This early start established the region as a major Mediterranean salt production center for centuries to follow.
The lagoons' names reflect their historical role in salt production, which continues to shape how locals and visitors perceive the place. You can observe this heritage directly in the layout of basins and channels that guide water through the wetlands.
An interpretation center beside the N332 highway provides information about walking trails and bird watching spots throughout the reserve. From there, you can explore the shores on various routes while observing the diverse birds and plants.
The two lagoons display different colors because of specific microorganisms that thrive in each basin. These organisms developed due to the different salt concentrations and water flow patterns in each lake.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
