Excursion to Doñana

To walk through the Doñana National Park is to discover one of the most stunning natural spaces in Europe. Located in a corner of Andalusia, Doñana is a flat region where water has created an ecosystem of incalculable value. Its wealth of fauna and flora is enhanced by the ethnological and cultural heritage of its inhabitants.

• Duration4 hours, with various visits
• Approximate distance: 8 km
• Difficulty: low
• PlaceDoñana Natural Park (Huelva)
• Recommended time of year: March

The hamlet of El Rocío is a good starting point for a walking route through the nature park. One kilometre along the road to Matalascañas is the La Rocina Information Centre, which houses a permanent exhibition on the pilgrimage of El Rocío. But the most interesting thing is the three and a half kilometre long pedestrian path that runs along the Charco de la Boca. The path runs along the left bank of the stream of La Rocina, a landscape of thickets of algae, bushes, pines and riverside trees. Charco de la Boca is home to some of Doñana's five observatories. From here, you can observe aquatic birds such as coots and mallards.

As Doñana is a natural park, it is advisable to follow the indications at the beginning of the itinerary, but there is one particularly important one: you are not allowed to leave the marked route. It is also very useful to carry binoculars, a field guide and insect repellent.