The Ebro Delta, a paradise for nature lovers
Following the coast from Cambrils to the south, we arrive at one of the most important natural parks of the peninsula, the Ebro Delta. It is the mouth of the second longest river in the Mediterranean after the Nile and is known for its unique ecosystem inhabited by many bird species and for its extensive rice paddies.
The Ebro Delta is one of the most important wetlands in Spain and one of the most important in Europe, located in the province of Tarragona, in the Autonomous Community of Catalonia. This territory extends over 320 km² and consists of a group of islands, dunes, marshes, lagoons and beaches spread over 13 municipalities..
Discover the Ebro Delta
The Ebro Delta is an area of great natural wealth, home to a wide variety of ecosystems and habitats that are home to numerous animal and plant species. Among the delta's most remarkable ecosystems are the reed beds, river forests, salt marshes, paddy fields and dune systems.
The Ebro Delta is home to a rich and abundant biodiversity, with a large number of animal and plant species and unique species of flora and fauna. Among the most notable animal species are the flamingo, the red duck, the spoonbill, the kingfisher, the purple heron and the Mediterranean tortoise. Besides, various species of mammals live in the delta, such as otter, mink, genet and fox. In terms of vegetation, the river forests and reed beds stand out.
The 13 municipalities that make up the Ebro Delta are: Amposta, Sant Jaume d'Enveja, Deltebre, Tortosa, Alcanar, Ulldecona, Sant Carles de la Ràpita, Camarles, L'Ametlla de Mar, L'Ampolla, Aldea, Mas the Barberans and Godal. Each of these municipalities has its own charm and particularities and together they form a unique and special area.
Tourist activities in the Ebro Delta
The Ebro Delta offers a large number of recreational and sports activities in nature, here are some ideas:
Bike routes through the Delta
The Ebro Delta has the necessary infrastructure to be explored by bicycle; it is the best way to discover the rice fields and to be able to quietly see the flamingos and the rest of the birds that live there. In addition, the routes are very accessible as there are many plains.
If we add up the cycle paths and routes, we have more than 1000 kilometers to cycle in the Delta.
Walking in the nature of the Delta
If you prefer not to cycle, hiking in the Ebro Delta is also a great option to discover the landscapes and biodiversity.
A great walk is the Ruta de la Sèquia Mare, which runs along the canal that carries water from the River Ebro to the rice paddies of the delta and allows you to learn about the area's irrigation system.
Bird watching in the Delta wetlands
One of the most common goals when hiking in the area is bird watching in the wetlands
One of the most popular routes in the delta is the Ruta de la Tancada, which runs through the lagoon of La Tancada and is ideal for observing water birds such as flamingos and herons. Another interesting route is the Punta del Fangar, which runs through an area of dunes and beaches and offers spectacular views of the sea and the rice fields of the delta. Finally, we mention La ruta de la Foradada, which passes through the mouth of the river Ebro and offers you the opportunity to observe different species of migratory birds.
Boat trips through the Delta
Boat trips are a very popular activity in the Ebro Delta and an excellent way to discover the area's natural landscapes from a different perspective.
There are several options for boat trips in the delta, which allow you to explore the different ecosystems and habitats in the area. For example, you can take boat trips at the mouth of the river Ebro, where you can spot birds such as gulls, cormorants or grebes.
Others focus on the delta's rice paddies and often include visits to the "masías", old farmhouses that have been converted into museums and show what life in the delta was like a few centuries ago.
Visit to the Wine Cellars
Wine production in the Ebro Delta is limited due to climatic conditions and the most logical thing in terms of wine is probably a visit to the Priorat area.
However, it is also possible to find some interesting wineries that produce quality wines within the Delta area, which will allow you to discover the wine culture of the area.
Enjoying the Ebro Delta from Cambrils Park
Although Cambrils Park is not in the Ebro Delta area itself, it is an interesting accommodation for those who want to enjoy the coast of Tarragona and make excursions to the Ebro Delta.
Cambrils Park has several accommodation options: bungalows, villas or apartments in a complex designed for the enjoyment of the whole family, with swimming pools, sports services, children's entertainment, shows or restaurant areas.
From Cambrils Park you can make excursions to the Ebro Delta by car and public transport. In addition, you can also take advantage of the location of the complex to visit other places of interest in the area, such as the city of Tarragona, the Sierra de Montsant Natural Park or the Poblet Monastery.
FAQS
Although Cambrils Park is not in the Ebro Delta area itself, it is an interesting accommodation for those who want to enjoy the coast of Tarragona and make excursions to the Ebro Delta.
When is the best time to visit the Ebro Delta
The best time to visit the Ebro Delta depends a lot on one's interests and preferences, although spring and autumn are usually the most popular for enjoying the area's wildlife and nature.
Is there a recommended cycling route for children?
There are several cycling routes in the Ebro Delta specially designed to be enjoyed as a family:
● Ruta del Faro del Fangar: a circular route of about 16 km that starts at Playa del Trabucador and reaches the Fangar Lighthouse.
● Ruta de los molinos: This route is a bit more difficult, about 12 km from Deltebre, up to the Torre de la Closa and passes several restored windmills in the area.
● Vía Verde: this is an old train track that has been converted into a cycle route and is ideal to do with children. 25 km and you cross different landscapes of the delta, rice fields, forests and wetlands.
● Ruta de los Ebrodromos: a circular route of about 12 km that starts at the port of Sant Jaume d'Enveja and ends at the mouth of the river Ebro.
Is it possible to hike in the Delta with young children?
As with the cycling routes, we can choose some walking routes that are especially suitable for small children.
● Ruta del Mirador de la Tancada: This route has a low degree of difficulty and is perfect for small children. It is a circular route of about 3.5 km that starts at the Tancada Interpretation Center and ends at the viewpoint from where you can observe different bird species.
● Ruta de la Playa del Trabucador: a linear route of about 4 km that starts at Playa del Trabucador and goes to the end of the beach.
● Ruta de la Isla de Buda: circular walk of about 3 km that departs from the port of Sant Jaume d'Enveja and reaches the island of Buda.
● Ruta de la Punta del Fangar: circular route of about 5 km that starts at Playa del Trabucador and reaches the lighthouse of Fangar.
Where can you watch birds in the Delta?
The Ebro Delta is one of the most important places in Europe for bird watching, as it is a transit and resting point for many species during their migrations.
Remember that for bird watching it is advisable to walk quietly and wear discreetly colored clothing and not to disturb the birds or their habitat.
These are some important points for bird watching in the Delta:
● Punta del Fangar Nature Reserve
● Buda Island Nature Reserve
● Tancada Lagoon Nature Reserve
● Trabucador Beach
