This area of marshland comprises four lagoons: La Primera de Palos, La Jara, La Mujer and Las Madres. Its location is of vital importance, as it is positioned halfway between the marshes of the Tinto and Odiel rivers and the Guadalquivir marshes. Interestingly, despite its proximity to the sea, they are freshwater lagoons. This wetland has water throughout the year and is therefore an important place of residence and passage for migratory birds.

Walking around the Laguna de las Madres trail, there are informative signposts for visitors about the vegetation native to this area. From the observatory and out in the open, you can see endangered species such as the squacco heron, which migrates from Africa and spends the summer season here. During this season, it acquires its breeding plumage, a striking orange colour, and its beak changes to an intense blue.

Another endangered species is the white-headed duck, a duck characterised by the stubby shape of its beak, which, in males and during the courtship season, is bluish in colour. These waters are also frequented by osprey. This clever bird of prey forcefully grabs its prey and, to avoid dropping it, keeps its claws firmly closed until it reaches its perch.

Nearby is Palos de la Frontera, a town steeped in history. During the Muslim period it was part of Niebla and in the 13th century it was conquered by the Christians. Christopher Columbus and his crew set out to discover the New World from the port here. If you want to find out more, you can visit the Monastery of La Rábida, which is the site where the expedition was forged, or the Gothic-Mudejar Church of San Jorge, where the sailors set off. The national monument, La Fontanilla, where the crew was supplied with water before embarking on the long journey, is worth a visit.