top of page
In Mallorca_logo_magFINAL-T-01.png

Family

Fun (and free!) Family Days Out -
S'Albufera Wetlands

BY LUCY BURKE 
They say the best things in life are free, and I for one believe that to be very true. There's nothing that makes me happier than quality time with my family. In Mallorca, luckily there is no shortage of places to go on a day out with our little ones, most of these experiences are not too bad on the wallet, with many attractions offering family and resident discounts. However, after a week or two of school holiday all these days out can still add up! So to help make the school holidays a little lighter on the pocket, I decided to share my favourite spots for fun and free (well...mostly) days out with the kids in North Mallorca.  Second in the series is the beautiful and interesting S'Albufera Wetlands. 
Birds in S'Albufera Wetlands in North Mallorca

The S’Albufera Wetlands is the largest wetland area in the Balearic Islands. The natural park is located in the North Mallorca, in the shadow of the Tramuntana mountain range, between the towns of Sa Pobla, Muro and the coastal area of Alcudia.

Flora and Fauna

This ecological gem consists of 2.036,23 hectares of marsh and wet grassland, and is a haven for both wildlife and nature lovers alike. Its diverse habitats include marshes, dunes, reed beds, and pine forests, providing a rich environment for a wide array of plant and animal species. The area is a paradise for birdwatchers with over 303 different species of birds having been found at the S’Albufera, these include herons, egrets, ducks, moorhens, red kites, kestrels, cranes and even Greater Flamingos. The S’Albufera is also home is other diverse fauna including eels, the Iberian Marsh Frog, viperine snake and European pond terrapin. There is also a very large insect population including, dragonflies, beetles and over 450 different species of Moth. 

Exploring

Exploring S'Albufera Wetlands is best done on foot, and there are several well-maintained, flat walking paths that wind their way through the reserve, making them very accesible for families with small children, prams & pushchairs (as always due caution needs to be taken with small children near expanses of water). These paths offer visitors the chance to observe wildlife up close without causing disturbance to habitats and nesting grounds. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and if you can bring binoculars, and smartphone or camera to capture the stunning scenery. S'Albufera Wetlands is open to the public pretty much all year-round (except for Christmas and New Year's Day) and admission is free. The park is open from 9 am to 6 pm between 1 April and 30 September, and from 9 am to 5 pm between 1 October and 31 March, providing ample opportunity to explore its beauty whatever the season. However, it's advisable to check for any changes in opening hours or closures due to maintenance work here - https://en.balearsnatura.com/parque_natural/parc-natural-de-salbufera-de-mallorca/#horario

 

 

Planning your trip

  • Wear sensible walking shoes & bring plenty of water, hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially during the warmer months, as temperatures can soar and mosquitoes can be prevalent.

  • Bringing snacks or a picnic is a nice idea, there are plenty of benches in the central area to sit, have a rest and something to eat. 

  • Respect the natural environment by staying on designated paths, refraining from disturbing or feeding wildlife, and disposing of litter responsibly.

  • Don't forget to bring your smartphone or camera to capture memorable family moments and breathtaking scenery during your visit.

S'Albufera Wetlands offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life and busier tourist spots in the Summer months. This ecological treasure invites visitors to reconnect with nature and discover the beauty of Mallorca's diverse ecosystems and is sure to make some lasting family memories. 

S'Albufera Wetlands, North Mallorca

Bird flying at the Albufera Wetlands in North Mallorca
Insect habitat in S'Albufera Wetlands in North Mallorca
bottom of page