by Antón Joan Rodriguez Fernig
If you want to try an exclusive game by Marina Habitat featuring a flying flamingo, clickhere
If you’re planning a getaway to Calpe, you’re sure to picture the imposing Peñón de Ifach—or its golden-sand beaches—right away. However, right in the urban heart of this Alicante town, there’s an ecological treasure that seems straight out of a nature story: Calpe’s Salt Flats.
This wetland, both a temporary and permanent home to a spectacular colony of flamingos, is a must-see stop for photography lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone who appreciates charming landscapes.
What’s most surprising about Calpe’s Salt Flats is their location. They’re surrounded by buildings, avenues, and just a few steps from the beaches—but once you cross their boundary, you enter a completely untouched ecosystem.
Their origin is no coincidence; they’re an ancient sea lagoon that has been used since the Roman era as a fish-salting facility (connected to the deposits of the Baños de la Reina). For centuries, the salt extracted here was used to preserve the foods of the region. Although salt farming ended in the late 20th century, in 1993 the area was declared a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) and a protected site, giving the space back entirely to wildlife.
Although the wetland is home to more than 170 bird species throughout the year (such as little egrets, royal herons, and coots), the greater flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus) are the undisputed stars of the place.
The salt flats are shallow and very salty waters. These conditions are the perfect habitat for small crustaceans and microscopic algae, especially brine shrimp—Artemia salina. This tiny crustacean is the flamingos’ favorite food and the direct reason their feathers take on that distinctive and vibrant pink color.
Flamingos can be spotted in Calpe all year round, but the number of specimens varies:
In spring and summer: It’s a fantastic time because the sunlight highlights the birds’ rosy tones, and it’s common to see large groups feeding peacefully.
During the migration months (autumn and winter): The Salt Flats turn into a service station for hundreds of flamingos traveling to Africa or to other areas of Spain such as Doñana or the Salinas de Santa Pola. This is when the wetland reaches its peak population splendor.
To enjoy this natural spectacle while respecting the environment, here are a few key tips:
The Observation Trail: There’s an established pedestrian path that runs alongside part of the salt flats. From there, you’ll have the perfect viewpoint to take photos without encroaching on their space.
Bring binoculars or a telephoto lens: Flamingos often gather in the center of the lagoon to protect themselves. Good binoculars will let you see how they filter the water with their beaks and their curious courtship dances.
The best time of day: Sunset is magical. Calpe’s sky turns orange and purple, reflecting on the still water of the salt flats—creating an idyllic scene alongside the silhouettes of the flamingos and the Peñón de Ifach in the background.
Silence and respect: Remember you’re visiting their home. Avoid loud noises, music, or sudden movements that could scare the birds and make them take off out of stress.
📌 Did you know...? When flamingos are born, their feathers are whitish-gray. It isn’t until they reach one or two years of age—after constantly feeding on crustaceans rich in carotenoids—that they begin to show off their famous pink plumage.
Calpe’s Salt Flats are the perfect reminder that nature always finds its place—even surrounded by asphalt. On your next visit, set aside an afternoon to stroll by the lagoon, breathe in the salty air, and let yourself be captivated by the flamingos’ elegance. An experience that will connect you right away with the wildest side of the Costa Blanca!
