Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park: what to see and do?

The Aiguamolls de l’Empordà natural park, located less than 20 minutes from Empuriabrava and Roses, is the second largest wetland in Catalonia after the Ebro Delta. Created in 1983, the territory extends over 4,824 hectares: more than 300 species of birds have been recorded there, including 90 species that nest regularly in the park. What exactly can be seen at the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà natural park? And what can be done there?

The different environments of the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà park

Located just a few kilometers from Empuriabrava and Roses, the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà natural park is home to a wide diversity of different environments, concentrated in a relatively small space:

• Salt marshes border the Mediterranean coast;

• Coastal lagoons host numerous aquatic species.

• Freshwater ponds, with their beaches and sandbanks, line the shore.

• The Muga and Fluvià rivers feed a network of irrigation canals bordered by vegetation.

Traditional agricultural areas are also part of the landscape: rice fields have been successfully reintroduced, vineyards extend over the dry lands of Els Aspres, and forests of cork oaks, holm oaks and pines punctuate the reliefs.

The different bird species of the park

The Aiguamolls de l’Empordà natural park is an ideal place for birds, as it attracts both resident and migratory species:

• The White Stork: recognizable by its white plumage, black wings and long red beak, it frequents wetlands and flooded meadows.

• The Grey Heron: this large grey bird, with a slender neck and pointed beak, is often found at the water’s edge (ponds and rivers). It feeds mainly on fish and amphibians.

• The Common Coot: with its black plumage and white beak, it is a regular in the waters of ponds and marshes. An excellent swimmer, it often moves in groups.

• The Purple Swamhen: its violet-blue plumage, red beak and legs make it one of the most colorful birds in the park. It lives hidden in the reed beds of the wetlands.

• The Lesser Grey Shrike: this small passerine is distinguished by its pink breast and black mask. It hunts insects and small vertebrates, which it sometimes impales on thorns to consume later.

• The Red-footed Falcon: elegant and fast, the male sports slate-grey plumage, while the female is brown. It hunts insects in flight in open areas.

• The White-winged Tern: this small tern, with grey wings and white body, feeds on insects and fish. It is often observed above ponds and marshes, especially during the migration period.

The park, thanks to its varied environments, allows birds to settle there regardless of their preferred natural habitat: wetlands, reed beds, ponds and floodplains, etc. These environments rich in food and shelter attract a great diversity of species, making the park the ideal place for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Park itinerary and activities

The El Cortalet Information Center, located in an old farmhouse in Castelló d’Empúries, is a good starting point for discovering the Aiguamolls. To start your exploration, several itineraries are available to you, including those of El Cortalet and Vilaüt, which can be done on foot. Two circular itineraries are also available for bicycles. These marked paths provide access to the 17 bird observatories distributed throughout the park.

Hiking is the preferred activity to fully appreciate the richness of the park. The trails of El Cortalet, for example, are perfectly suited for families and persons with reduced mobility. In addition, photographers will find plenty of opportunities all along the way, especially from the observatories which constitute discreet viewpoints on the fauna. Guided tours can be organized for tourists and for people living in Empuriabrava and Roses. You can thus discover protected natural spaces just a few minutes from your residence.

During your excursion in the park, you must be careful to respect the marked trails to preserve these fragile environments. Note that camping is only allowed in authorized campsites or on designated grounds. In the immediate vicinity of the park, discover Sant Pere Pescador and its beaches, for a pleasant seaside complement after a morning of walking and observation.

Preparing your visit to the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà natural park

The Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park is easily accessible from the main towns of the Costa Brava. The El Cortalet Information Center is located on the GIV-6216 road at km 4.2 in Castelló d’Empúries. The park is also accessible from Empuriabrava, Roses and Sant Pere Pescador.

When to observe birds?

Migration periods allow for remarkable ornithological spectacles. Spring (March to May) and autumn (August to October) migrations concentrate the greatest diversity of species, but whatever the season, mornings and evenings are generally the best times for observation.

Recommended equipment and visit rules

To enjoy your exploration, bring a pair of binoculars, suitable walking shoes or rubber boots, as well as sun protection. Mosquito repellent will be essential during the hot months, and neutral-colored clothing will allow you to approach the fauna discreetly.

Finding accommodation with Immo Center to discover the region

At Immo Center, real estate specialist in Empuriabrava, we know the territory well enough to guide you toward the best accommodations in the region, whether you are looking for a villa with a view of the Empuriabrava canals, an apartment facing the Platja de Roses, or a traditional Catalan house. If you wish to buy an apartment, you will find on our site apartments in Empuriabrava and more broadly, apartments on the Costa Brava.