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Go to our visitor centres, information points and ecomuseums to get the most out of your visit.
This hiking trail begins in the area called Los Juncares and runs around the northern sector of Laguna de Fuente de Piedra, near the mouths of the Santillán and María Fernández streams, it ends at the curve of the Vicaria where there is an observatory and a viewpoint.
At the end of the 19th century, this area was drained by the construction of canals in order to convert these lands into arable land. Regeneration and repopulation work has been carried out to recuperate the nature of the Mediterranean salt steppes.
In years of less than average rainfall, this area behaves like a saline steppe, being occupied by steppe birds such as the stone curlew, the Calandra lark and the lesser kestrel. In wet years, aquatic birds such as the mallard, flamingo, plover, avocet and stilt settle here, among others.
Regarding the flora, the most remarkable feature of the vegetation is the presence of halophilic communities, that is, plants adapted to grow in saline environments in particular amaranth (Arthrocnemum glaucum and Suaeda vera among others). The peculiar character of the vegetation of the lagoon is due to the presence of this halophilic vegetation, which is difficult to find outside its environment.
It is advisable to take binoculars as it is located in one of the most important wetlands in Europe and the largest and most biodiverse in Andalusia.
From the Sevilla-Almería A92 motorway, we take exit 132 signposted for Fuente de Piedra / Humilladero / Laguna de Fuente de Piedra and partially cross the town of Fuente de Piedra following the signs to the Laguna. To get to the hiking trail, we continue along the path in the sandy areas of the lagoon that leads us to the José Antonio Valverde Visitor Centre. The start is about 150 metres ahead of the reception facilities, then you will pass by a wooden gate that you must keep on your right-hand side and walk about 50 metres towards the perimeter of the lagoon.
Go to our visitor centres, information points and ecomuseums to get the most out of your visit.
Do not disturb or feed the animals. You would negatively alter their behavior.
Check the weather forecast before starting your activity.
Bring water, sun protection, suitable clothing and footwear.
Bring a mobile phone with enough battery in case of emergency (112), but remember that there is not always coverage.
For your safety and that of the environment, do not go off the signposted trail or take shortcuts.
Extreme caution in adverse conditions and in the occasional presence of animals or motor vehicles.
Follow the recommendations and comply with the regulations at all times
Respect the facilities put at your disposal. We all pay for its maintenance.
Help prevent fires. Do not throw cigarettes or any other object that produces combustion.
Trash doesn't come back alone. Take it with you to the nearest container. Reduce, reuse, recycle.
Avoid going out alone. If you do, communicate the route and time of return to other people.
Noise is another form of pollution. In silence you will enjoy your experience more.
Live respectfully with the locals and other users. Respect private property.
Facilitate use for people with special needs.
By consuming local products and counting on local companies, you will contribute to rural development.
Practice responsible tourism and committed to the environment. Be a true ecotourist!
Never leave your pet in the wild. It would endanger the flora and fauna of the place.
Get around in a sustainable way: public transport, bicycle, on foot, electric or shared vehicle ... Park in the designated places
Do not leave a trace of your passage through nature. The best memory you can take with you is your own photograph.
Your safety is our concern, but it is your responsibility.
The conservation of natural spaces is also in your hands. Thank you for your collaboration!
Find out in advance about the possible existence of hunting activity and remember that all public use facilities are declared safety zones.