Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park

Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park is in Costa Brava of Spain. The Empordà Marshes are one of the main wetland areas in Catalonia, along with the Ebro and Llobregat deltas.

Understand


The Empordà Marshes are located on the Empordà plain, between the mouths of the Fluvià and Muga rivers, in an area characterized by current river courses, the ancient river mouths, and the irrigation and drainage systems historically used in this water-rich place.

The natural park of the Empordà Marshes was created on October 28, 1983, through Law 23/1983, which designated it as a natural site of national interest and a place of integral zoological and botanical reserves in the Empordà Marshes.

In addition to the well-known Natural Park designation, there are also integral natural reserves (the highest level of natural protection in Catalan legislation) for the Llaunes and Estanys.

History
The Empordà Marshes used to cover almost the entire plain of the Bay of Roses and the lower Ter River. The Montgrí Massif was isolated by water, and when the Greeks settled there, they did so on an island between the ancient mouths of the Fluvià and Ter rivers (the ancient northern branch), where they later founded Empúries. The extensive marshland areas gradually disappeared, mainly due to agricultural expansion. The marshy areas of Siurana, Vilacolum, Riumors, Bellcaire, Ullastret, and Pals are already part of history.

The construction of tourist facilities was a new factor in degradation. Extensive areas vanished, transformed into urban developments, such as Empuriabrava. This would have continued if, in 1976, a campaign with the slogan "The last Empordà marshes in danger" had not begun, aimed at raising public awareness about the importance of the wetlands and their value as a natural reserve.

In 1983 the Parliament of Catalonia approved the law declaring the Empordà Marshes as natural sites of national interest and integral reserves. It was later reclassified as a natural park.

The natural park covers only the wetlands of Alt Empordà, while those of Baix Empordà are included in the Plan for Areas of Natural Interest (PEIN).

Landscape


A mosaic of interdependent yet distinct ecosystems:

Sea. In front of the Natural Park's coastline, there is a relatively shallow marine area with sandy bottoms. The shelter provided by the Gulf of Roses offers refuge during strong Tramontana winds. However, the Levantes significantly impact the coastal facade of the Park.

Coastal Beaches and Sand Dunes. These are present along the entire coastline of the Park and represent the last unspoiled beaches on the Costa Brava. In fact, the elongated extension to the south, following the shoreline that defines the Park's perimeter, aims to preserve a sufficiently representative sample of this habitat.

Salt Marshes and Salt Flats. The coastal brackish lagoons, locally known as "llaunes," are located immediately behind the beach, between the mouths of the Muga and Fluvià rivers. The vegetation surrounding the llaunes, composed of low plants adapted to soil salinity, such as samphires and rushes, is locally referred to as "salsura."

Closes, Fields, and Hayfields. In Empordà, meadows typical of the region, enclosed by drainage ditches and lined with riverside trees (elms, ash trees, alders, alders, and others), are known as "closes." They occupy the beds of former lakes and, therefore, flood during rainy seasons. Other similar long and narrow fields and meadows, enclosed by tamarisks, are referred to as "peces" or "feixes."

Freshwater Lakes and Marshes. These are the current remains of the old Castelló Lake, with the most emblematic being the Vilaüt Lake. Their inland location, far from the sea, makes the waters completely fresh, and the vegetation is particularly adapted to immersion, flooding, and humidity, depending on the water depth. The Natural Park has promoted the recovery and creation of new lakes, such as the Cortalet Lake or the European Lakes.

Hydrography. Apart from the Muga and Fluvià, the two major rivers in the Park, the Aiguamolls feature an extensive network of streams and ditches. The vegetation on their banks is of evident botanical and faunistic interest. The Integral Reserve of Caramany Island, covering 5.6 hectares, situated on the Fluvià River, hosts a natural riparian forest.

Cultivated Lands. They occupy a significant portion of the Park's surface. From winter cereals (barley, wheat) and fallow land, the transition has been made to maize, millet, sunflowers, and fruit trees. The cultivation of rice, recovered since the creation of the Natural Park, is undoubtedly the most suited to the lowland region of Empordà.

Hilly Areas. Located between the plain and the neighboring Verdera mountain range to the northeast, these areas cover gently undulating terrain. They are covered by dryland crops (such as vineyards), shrubland, and pastures, as well as cork oaks, holm oaks, and oaks. Pine groves are also found in some areas, like Torre del Vent, the highest point in the Park.

Inhabited Nuclei. The Park contains several farmhouses, farmsteads, and scattered hamlets across the plain. They are often integrated into the landscape and provide refuge for the local wildlife and flora.

Flora and fauna
Flora

The marshes within the Empordà region feature unique vegetation adapted to their distinctive coastal environment. Notably, the coastal communities showcase the influence of water and salinity. Here, succulent and fleshy-leaved plants like glassworts and sea rushes thrive, along with the striking blue irises that bloom in spring. These coastal ecosystems are crucial for both their biological and scenic value. Further inland, riverbanks and drainage canals host reed beds, bulrushes, and diverse flora, while riparian forests border the rivers. In waterlogged areas, various aquatic plants and submerged vegetation, along with floating species, paint a vibrant, ever-changing landscape.

Birds

The marshes host an impressive variety of bird species, with over 300 of them seeking refuge and rest in this pristine habitat, many of which are protected and renowned for their beauty. Birds take center stage in the area's rich wildlife, boasting a recorded 329 bird species, including 82 regular nesting species. Birds like the mallard, moorhen, yellow wagtail, and reed warbler are among the common nesting residents. These marshes also serve as a critical rest and feeding stop for thousands of migratory birds during their seasonal journeys. During winter, an influx of species from northern and central Europe adds to the vibrant avian population. The ongoing protection efforts have contributed to the population recovery of several species that once faced local extinction.

Others

The wetlands are home to a rich aquatic ecosystem featuring various fish species, including the common carp, thick-lipped grey mullet, megrim, pumpkinseed, and eel. Notably rare residents include the Iberian killifish and three-spined stickleback. The region boasts a diverse population of reptiles and amphibians, mainly inhabiting freshwater areas. Species such as the painted frog, marbled newt, European pond turtle, Psammodromus lizards, the elusive Chalcides striatus, and the green lizard can be found, while snakes, with four different species, and slowworms are commonly seen along the edges and in riparian forests. Among the mammals, the Eurasian otter, weasel, badger, red fox, common genet, and fallow deer are present. Additionally, the area provides habitat for an array of small mammals, including moles, shrews, rats, and mice. The wild rabbit is abundant in specific areas, whereas the European hare is less common. The wild boar population has surged, making it one of the most prevalent species throughout the Aiguamolls Natural Park. This region also supports a variety of bat species, which aid in insect control, including combating mosquito populations.

Climate
The Empordà Marshes area exhibits a Mediterranean climate with distinctive features influenced by its proximity to the Pyrenean foothills, resulting in higher precipitation levels.

One notable climatic aspect is the prevalence of the northerly wind, locally known as Tramontana.

Throughout the year, temperatures follow a typical Mediterranean pattern, with warm summers and mild winters.

The region experiences considerable variations in temperature and precipitation, making it essential for visitors to check seasonal climate conditions and prepare accordingly.

This climatic diversity, coupled with the breathtaking natural surroundings, offers a unique experience for those exploring the Empordà Marshes and its surrounding areas.

By plane
The nearest airports are Girona-Costa Brava (, in Spain) and Perpignan–Rivesaltes (, in France).

By railway
Figueres has a high-speed trainstation, connected to Madrid and Barcelona and also to France's high-speed trains.

By car
From France: The   from Montpellier and Perpignan to the Spanish border. Then the until Figueres. The road to Roses  connects it with Castelló d'Empúries.

Walking
The GR92 crosses the park.

Cycling
The Pirinexus route crosses the park.

Fees and permits
It's free to enter.

Hiking

 * Long range : the GR92 crosses the park
 * Local hikes
 * Itinerary 1: from El Cortalet to Mas del Matà, 2.5 km.
 * Itinerary 2: from Mas del Matà to Les Llaunes, 2.3 km.
 * Itinerary 3: a round around the Integral Reserve of Les Llaunes, 8.2 km.
 * Itinerary 4: from El Cortalet to Estanys Europa, 4 km.
 * Itinerary 5: Middle of Two Rivers, 1.5 km.
 * Vilaüt Itinerary: route through the Vilaüt Reserve, 2 km.
 * Literary Itinerary: from Mas del Matà to El Cortalet, 2.5 km.

Mountain bike
The Pirinexus route crosses the park.

The Ruta del Ter ends in the Ter river mouth.

Birdwatching
Bird Hides Emporda Marsh (south part)

Bird hides in Les Llaunes i dels Estanys (north part)



Eat
There are restaurants and bars in the nearby Villages:


 * Castelló d'Empúries
 * Ampuriabrava
 * l’Armentera
 * L'Escala
 * Palau-saverdera
 * Pau
 * Peralada
 * Roses
 * Sant Pere Pescador
 * Pedret i Marzà

Drink
There are restaurants and bars in the nearby Villages. (See )

Sleep

 * You must check at the nearby villages (See ).
 * In Sant Pere Pescador beach area there are a lot of campgrounds.

Campgrounds

 * Wild camping is prohibited. Familiarize yourself with the conditions established for each area.
 * Wild camping is prohibited. Familiarize yourself with the conditions established for each area.

Stay safe
It is strongly recommended that, before visiting a protected area, you stop by the information centers and points.

You should have the appropriate equipment for the route you decide to take: boots, warm clothing, waterproof gear, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and binoculars. Carry detailed maps.

The water from natural springs is not treated, so bring enough for the duration of your journey.

Assess your own strength and that of your group if you plan to go on a long hike. Always think about the return journey.

Check the weather conditions.

Always follow the instructions of rural agents and park staff.

Emergency phone: 112

Rules and behavioural guidelines
The conservation of ecosystems and species in our natural parks and reserves largely depends on the attitude and behaviour of visitors. Therefore, it is essential to strictly comply with the protection regulations of each area and follow a set of behavioural guidelines:

You can only use motorised vehicles on authorized roads and tracks. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited. Avoid excessive noise and speed.

Hiking is the best way to discover the heritage of natural parks. Always walk on marked trails.

No open fires: starting fires is strictly prohibited.

No plant collection: respect the flora and do not uproot any plants or vegetation.

Respect the wildlife and their habitats. Enjoy observing them. It is prohibited to capture or disturb animals, except for game species in authorized areas with the necessary permits.

Do not collect rocks or any type of mineral. These are also protected heritage.

Respect private property. Do not cross over cultivated fields or damage crops.

Keep your pets on a leash.

Avoid making unnecessary noise that may disturb the tranquility of the areas and affect the wildlife.

No littering: take your litter with you and dispose of it in the proper containers. Do not litter the landscape that we all enjoy.

No camping: wild camping is prohibited. Familiarise yourself with the conditions established for each area.

Stay on pedestrian path: respect informational signs and other park infrastructure.

One way to make the most of your visit is to be accompanied by a specialised guide.