Some reasons to visit the Albufera Natural Park with children
Located in the north of Mallorca, the Albufera Natural Park is shared by three municipalities: Alcudia, Muro, and Sa Pobla. Technically, it is a swamp of over 2,500 hectares and a perimeter of 32 kilometers that preserves its natural characteristics in almost all its space, and therefore, it is a privileged place of great environmental value.
In 1988, it was declared a Natural Park and Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) and Biosphere Reserve, in addition to being included in the Ramsar Convention for the protection of wetlands.
Four excursions to do with children in the Albufera
While entering the Albufera Natural Park is free, you have to request permission on the same day at the Visitor Center, which is located one kilometer from the parking area. The park provides a map with different routes that can be taken and their secret lookout points from which to observe and photograph birds, plants, insects...and if lucky, cows.
The four excursions have very easy paths, perfectly suitable for children and strollers, and some can be done by bicycle.
The Sa Roca Path can only be done on foot. It is less than a kilometer long and, without stops, it takes an hour and a half. It runs through the central part of the Albufera Natural Park and connects with other routes. It has five bird observation huts, where you can quietly observe birds without making sudden movements.
With about 11 kilometers of route, Es camí d’Enmig-Ses Puntes is the longest route in the Albufera. The path can be done by bike and goes around the entire park. Along the way, there is an observation tower to enjoy beautiful panoramas. Without stops, it takes three hours.
The Es Colombars excursion can be done on foot or by bike. The route is almost a kilometer and a half long and has two observation platforms. This route is very interesting to do with children and explain to them the transformations that the park underwent in the late 19th century. Everything can be observed from the Pont de Sa Roca, which crosses the main channel of the Albufera.
Es Cibollar is the most popular route because you can see flamingos almost all year round. It is a charming route, between trees and diverse vegetation, along a narrow path. It has bridges, canals, and two bird observatories.
The animals that can be seen in the Albufera of Alcudia
The Albufera is a marshy area that mixes the freshwater from the streams and the saltwater from the sea that enters its interior in the summer months. All of this makes it the perfect habitat for more than 230 species of birds that nest or spend seasons in the natural park, such as the pochard, the mallard, or the black-winged stilt.
It is also a resting area for migratory birds such as flamingos and the place where ducks and elegant herons spend the winter. Of course, there are reptiles, amphibians, and fish such as eels or sea bass.
It is important to explain to children that it may not be the season, or that the animals may not be seen. In addition, it is important to respect the environment, trying to keep the voice low, not running or making rough movements.
Some recommendations should be followed: bring insect repellent and, if visiting the park in the summer season, do it with sunscreen protection and plenty of water. The excursion can be completed with a visit to Alcudia Beach.
