Fuente De Piedra – Lagoon, Flamingos and Holiday Apartments

Fuente De Piedra and the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra represent a natural area of considerable scale: the lagoon has been a nature reserve since 1989, covers 1,354 hectares and is the largest nature reserve in Andalusia. It is considered one of Spain’s most extensive and characteristic endorheic complexes.

Nature

More than 170 bird species can be observed at the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra; sightings depend on the season and water level. Under favourable conditions, the flamingo breeding colony on Isla de Senra in the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra can be observed during the spring season. The annual flamingo ringing event held in summer gives visitors the opportunity to learn about the birds and conservation work in their habitat. From the Laguna de las Palomas Observatory, you can observe birds that live in the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra.

The Laguna de Fuente de Piedra is designated as a Special Conservation Area (ZEC) ES0000033 and as a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA). The inland viewpoint and nearby paths offer extensive views over the wetland. The José Antonio Valverde Visitor Centre features an interactive exhibition on flamingo ecology, as well as a shop, a rest area and accessible facilities for all visitor groups.

Trails

The Las Albinas linear hiking trail is 2,660 metres long in one direction, takes around one hour and has a low level of difficulty. It runs around the northern area of the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra and ends at the de la Vicaria bend.

The Las Albinas hiking trail can be reached via the Seville–Almería A92 motorway, exit 132; from there, follow the signs to the lagoon. The El Laguneto hiking trail can also be reached via the A92, exit 132; follow the signs through Fuente de Piedra to the lagoon and then the Camino de los Arenales to the José Antonio Valverde Visitor Centre.

A cycling loop around the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra follows roads around the lagoon and allows stops at the de la Vicaria and Laguna de Cantarranas viewpoints. The different types of activity help you compare the hike and cycling loop when planning your day.

Culture

La Ureña is a popular festival in Fuente de Piedra, celebrated every year on 31 October. The water from the La Fuente de la Piedra spring was considered to have healing properties and was recommended for “stone disease” (urinary stones) and other illnesses. The La Noria necropolis is rare in Andalusia.

Other local pages

Jimera De Líbar, Los Morales, Cuevas Del Becerro, Bermejo, Guadalmina, Genalguacil, Arenas, Lagos

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