Birdwatching in Spain

Spain is full of wonderful wildlife that flourishes in its varied landscapes, from the Sierra Nevada to the rugged Asturian coastline. One popular activity for tourists visiting the Paradors in Spain is birdwatching. With a huge array of species on show for most of the year, this is a great opportunity to see the very best of nature that Spain has to offer.

Monfrague National Park, Extremadura

If you are visiting Extremadura, an often-overlooked day trip is a visit to the Monfrague national park. Situated only 60km from Caceres, you can drive through the park at you own leisure, stopping to marvel in the vultures and birds of prey that circle the park, particularly near to the Gypsy’s Jump, one of the park’s key stopping points. Deer, imperial eagles and black storks are also a highlight to look out for, and if you’re lucky enough, you might be able to spot some flamingos from the castle. This 9^th-century Islamic fort provides great views of the park, as well as a nearby restaurant.

Nearby Paradors:

Whilst you're in the area: Monasterio de Yuste

When visiting Extremadura, don’t forget to stop bythe magnificent Monasterio de Yuste – this tranquil oasis situated in the green forested hills was once a home to the Kings Carlos I and V. A stroll among the ivy-covered buildings is worth a stop to escape the summer heat, and the informative audio guide gives you a unique perspective into the hidden history of this monastery.

Doñana National Park, Andalucia

Host to 230 species of bird, the Doñana national park near Huelva, Andalucía, is a great excursion to see some amazing wildlife. There is so much to do, with off-roading, bike tours and horse riding to navigate the park. The famous “pink carpet” of flamingos are amazing to see, as well the endangered imperial eagles and Iberian lynx. If you fancy a more laid-back approach, take the tourist boat for a relaxed trip up the river Guadalquivir, or visit the village of El Rocio for some local gastronomy (white prawns, and local ham and cheeses).

Nearby Paradors:

Ebro Delta and Aiguamolls de L'Emporda,, Catalonia

If you are visiting Catalonia, the Ebro Delta may be right up your street. Only 30km from the Parador de Tortosa, the salt pans, marshes and estuaries of this area are a resting place for the migration of over 300 species of bird, as well as the world’s largest colony of Audouin’s gulls.

You can combine a trip to the Ebro Delta with the Aiguamolls de L’Emporda Nature Reserve, complete with 320 species of birds, including mallards, grey shrikes, and garganeys.

The tranquillity of this area can make a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the big cities like Barcelona and Valencia and is easily accessible by car.

In addition to the wildlife, this stretch of the eastern coast is home to some of Spain’s best beaches and fascinating places of interest such as the striking town of Peñiscola which was famously used as a filming location for Charlton Heston’s El Cid and, in more recent years, in Game of Thrones.

Nearby Paradors:

Galicia and the Cies Islands

Galicia is undoubtedly one of the best places to go birdwatching, especially from August to December. The Parador Costa da Morte is close to the home of godwits, curlews and peregrine falcons. At Cape Estaca de Bares, there are many shearwaters, gannets and skuas. Rías de Ribadeo y Foz are also a great place to spot cormorants, herons, egrets and gannets.

Another nearby opportunity that is often missed off the map is the Cíes Islands. These uninhabited islands are only a 45 minute boat ride from Vigo, and although they are very remote, the beautiful rugged coastline and clear blue waters are something to marvel at. Here, you can see species such as the American black duck, brown booby, and herring gulls.

Nearby Paradors:

Ordesa National Park, Aragon

Right on the French border, deep in the Pyrenees, is the Ordesa National Park. Here, on the ancient Monte Perdido glacier, you can see bearded vultures, as well as chamois, deer and brown bears, all of which are indigenous to the region. It is also worth a visit to the nearby waterfalls to cool off in the warmer months.

This part of Aragon is a haven for nature lovers with ample opportunities for hiking, cycling and, in winter months, skiing.

Nearby Paradors:

Spain is a great place to enjoy the marvellous nature that western Europe has to offer, and the areas surrounding Paradors are host to wonderful scenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities. If you have any questions or would like some advise in planning a route to incorporate some of these magnificent locations, call our helpful team on 0207 199 6360.

Birdwatching in Spain