El Parque Natural el Hondo is a protected wetland area close to the small town of Crevillente in the Alicante region of Spain.
Before the Middle Ages, this was a saltwater lagoon where the river Río Vinalopó ran into the sea. Now there is a demarcated wetland area a few miles inland from the coast.
The area is arranged so that birds, insects and plants can thrive while people has the opportunity to see them.
Footbridges have been made in decking with bridges where it is necessary to get around the terrain.
The shallow water provides good living conditions for many species of waders and seabirds.
Black-Winged Stilt (above) - Little egret (below)
Northern shoveler (below)
Eared Grabe (below)
Coots in battle (below)
Red Rumped swallow in flight (below)
Pied Avoset in flight (below)
Glossy Ibis in flight (below)
Glossy Ibis
Flamingos in flight
But where there are birds and baby birds, there are also birds of prey. The Eurasian March Harrier in the picture below constantly sails over the terrain in search of food.
Several places in the area there is hides for birdwatching. Here you can observe the birds without disturbing them.
You get the best results if you use binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens, but you can also do without.
Although the area is particularly suitable for observing birds, insects and plants, it is also nice to simply walk or cycle in the area along the water and canals.
More excursions: www.turideer.com
Excursion of the week: El Hondo nature park at Crevillente in Spain
Suitable for: everyone - including wheelchairs and prams
Length/duration: Optional - a round trip is approx.3 km long
Get there: Look for El Hondo in Google maps. It's close to Crevillente and Elche