Punta Umbría, Coastal municipality in Province of Huelva, Spain
Punta Umbría is a coastal municipality sitting on the banks of the Río Odiel river, surrounded by extensive salt marshes and facing Isla Saltes. The town sits at just 6 meters elevation and is defined by waterways, with a harbor and river landscape shaping its layout.
A defensive tower was built here in the 14th century to guard the coast and control the area against raids. This tower marked the start of permanent settlement at this strategic location.
Fishing shapes daily life here, with local fishermen bringing their catches to the harbor and selling them at the market. You can see this tradition in the boats anchored along the water and in how people in town talk about the sea.
Regular boat services connect the town to Huelva across the water, with more frequent departures during summer. The flat layout along the water means walking is the best way to explore, or you can take a boat trip to see the surrounding area.
During World War II, this location played an unexpected role in a British intelligence operation where fake military documents were brought to a beach. This covert action was meant to deceive enemy forces and remains little known today.
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