Las Salinas de Calpe: Nature, History & Flamingos

Right in the heart of Calpe, just steps away from high-rise hotels, bustling promenades, and the iconic Peñón de Ifach, lies a natural oasis that surprises most first-time visitors — Las Salinas de Calpe.

This unique saltwater lagoon is more than just a pretty view with pink flamingos. It’s a place of ecological richness, historical importance, and peaceful contrast to the town’s busy beaches.

Let’s uncover the full story of Las Salinas — from Roman salt extraction to modern birdwatching.

📍 Where Are Las Salinas?

Las Salinas de Calpe sit between the two main beaches: Playa Arenal-Bol and Playa de la Fossa, just inland from the Peñón de Ifach.

You can’t miss it — the blue-green lagoon surrounded by reeds is clearly visible from the main roads and even more impressive when viewed from above (like during a hike up the Peñón).

🚶‍♂️ It’s fully walkable, with a public footpath circling most of the lagoon — perfect for a nature walk, photography, or a short detour on your way to the beach.

🧂 A Bit of History: Calpe’s Salt Legacy

Las Salinas didn’t just appear out of nowhere. They were once a thriving Roman saltworks, part of a vast network used to preserve fish and other foods before refrigeration existed.

🏛️ Historical Timeline:

• 2nd century AD: Romans begin extracting salt here, shipping it along the Mediterranean

• Salt was used especially to preserve garum, a fish-based sauce widely consumed in Roman cuisine

• Middle Ages: Salt production continues, becoming an important economic driver for Calpe

• 20th century: Industrial salt production declines, and the area is eventually protected as a natural park

Today, the salt basins are no longer used for industry — but the natural salt levels remain, creating a unique micro-ecosystem that draws in dozens of bird species.

👉 Link: Baños de la Reina

🦩 Wildlife & Birdwatching: The Stars of the Show

Without a doubt, the main attraction at Las Salinas is its resident flamingo population. These elegant, pink-tinged birds can often be seen:

• Feeding in the shallows

• Nesting in the reeds

• Flying in formation across the lagoon

Other species you might spot:

• Herons

• Storks

• Egrets

• Gulls

• Grebes

• Occasionally ducks and migratory birds depending on the season

📸 Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens — this is a favorite spot for birdwatchers and nature photographers!

💡 Did you know? Flamingos get their pink coloring from the algae and small crustaceans they feed on, which thrive in salty waters like these.

👉 Link: Wildlife on the Costa Blanca

🌿 Ecological Importance

Las Salinas is a protected natural zone due to its high ecological value. Despite being surrounded by urban development, it:

• Supports native Mediterranean wetland ecosystems

• Acts as a rest stop for migratory birds traveling between Europe and Africa

• Is rich in salt-tolerant plants and brine-loving micro-organisms

• Helps control humidity and temperature in the local microclimate

It’s one of the few places where urban life and wild nature coexist side by side.

👣 How to Visit

Getting There:

• Easily reachable on foot from anywhere in central Calpe

• Parking is available in surrounding streets and near the Peñón

• Public buses also stop nearby

🛣️ Surrounded by Avenida Juan Carlos I and Avenida de Europa

Walk the Trail:

There’s a walking path that circles most of the lagoon, with benches and signage.
Some areas are more rustic — wear proper shoes if you plan to explore beyond the paved paths.

📸 Best Time to Visit

The flamingos and other birds are usually visible year-round, but they’re most active:

• Early morning or late afternoon

• During spring and autumn migrations

Sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful reflections of the pink birds, calm waters, and the Peñón de Ifach in the backdrop.

🌅 Golden hour photography here is truly magical.

✅ Editor’s Conclusion

Las Salinas de Calpe is more than just a pond with flamingos — it’s a living connection to the town’s ancient past, a vital ecological haven, and a beautiful reminder of how nature and history intertwine in the Costa Blanca.

It’s quiet, peaceful, and completely free to enjoy. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, a curious traveler, or just someone looking to slow down — take the time to walk around the lagoon and witness Calpe’s natural side.

❓Frequently Asked Questions