Ría de Villaviciosa, Nature reserve in Villaviciosa, Spain
Ría de Villaviciosa is a protected estuary along the Cantabrian coast with mudflats, salt marshes, and wooded areas that shelter diverse wildlife. The reserve spans several kilometers and supports numerous bird species throughout the year.
The Spanish government designated Ría de Villaviciosa as a protected natural area in 1995. This action aimed to preserve the coastal ecosystem and safeguard the region's ecological heritage.
Local fishing communities continue to work in designated areas using methods passed down through families. This practice remains deeply connected to daily life in the region.
Walking trails connect the main viewing areas, with maps available from the local tourist office guiding visitors through different sections. Early morning and late afternoon visits offer better light for observing birds and wildlife.
The reserve is home to Spartina maritima plant formations that exist nowhere else in Asturias. These plants create specialized habitats that support animal species found only in these conditions.
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