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A few kilometres from the city of Valencia is one of the most special corners of the Valencian Community: the Albufera Natural Park. A perfect place for a getaway where you can enjoy nature, gastronomy and dreamy sunsets. In this post we tell you everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this natural setting. The best plans, what to eat and how to get there, if you want to know more… read on!
📍 What is the Albufera of Valencia and where is it?
The Albufera Natural Park is a large freshwater lagoon separated from the sea by a string of dunes and pine forests. Covering more than 21,000 hectares, this natural paradise is home to a great biodiversity and is considered one of the most important ecosystems on the Iberian Peninsula. It is located about 10 km south of Valencia, within the city limits, and encompasses towns such as El Palmar, El Saler and Pinedo. If you choose to rent a car, getting to the Albufera is quick and easy. With Record go you can rent your car at the Valencia Airport office or, if you prefer, at the Valencia Joaquín Sorolla office, to explore this paradise at your own pace and discover every corner of this unique natural park.
🌿What to see and do in the Albufera of Valencia
Boat trip on the Albufera
One of the most authentic experiences is to tour the lagoon in a traditional boat, known as an ‘albuferenc’. During the trip, you can admire the landscape, observe birds such as herons and flamingos and, if you go at sunset, enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in Spain.
Tour the Devesa del Saler
This Mediterranean forest separates the lagoon from the sea and is ideal for hiking or cycling. There are several signposted routes to enjoy the native flora and fauna.
Visit the rice fields of the Albufera
If you like photography, this is the place for you. Depending on the time of year, the rice fields change their appearance: in spring they are an immense mirror of water, in summer a green sea and in autumn they are tinged with gold before the harvest.
Explore the village of El Palmar
In this small fishing village, traditions are still alive and well. You can visit its streets, see the typical Valencian barracas and, of course, enjoy its famous gastronomy.
Birdwatching in the lagoon
If you like birdwatching, in the Albufera you will find more than 300 species of birds. Visit the viewpoints in the park’s reserves to see flamingos, cormorants or ospreys.
🍽️ Gastronomy: what to eat in Albufera
Albufera is the cradle of rice in Valencia, and here you can try some of the best traditional recipes. You can’t leave without trying:
- Valencian paella: the star dish, cooked with chicken, rabbit, green beans and garrofón beans.
- All i pebre: a local eel stew with garlic, paprika and potatoes.
- Clòtxines: Valencian mussels, small but with a spectacular flavour.
🔍 Interesting facts about the Albufera
- Its name, of Arabic origin, means ‘the little sea’, and the sunsets reflected in the water are truly spectacular.
- More than 350 species of birds live here throughout the year, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
- The Albufera has appeared in films and series, and was also a source of inspiration for the novel ‘Cañas y barro’ by Vicente Blasco Ibáñez.
- The Albufera area is where the rice with the designation of origin ‘Arroz de Valencia’ is grown, essential for authentic paella.
📅 Best time to visit the Albufera
Each season has its charm in the Albufera:
- Spring and autumn: mild temperatures, green landscapes and fewer tourists.
- Summer: long, sunny days, ideal for enjoying the lake, but with more visitors.
- Winter: perfect for watching migratory birds and peaceful walks.
The Albufera of Valencia is a destination not to be missed. Nature, gastronomy and the best outdoor activities just a few kilometres from the city of Valencia. Are you ready to discover this natural paradise?
