Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park

Cabo de Gata is located in the south-easternmost point of the province of Almería. Its stretch of coastline is marked by cliffs, coves and beaches. This nature reserve was also declared a biosphere reserve in 1997. It spans across the entire region of Cabo de Gata and part of its surroundings.

The Cabo de Gata mountain range is of volcanic origin and its relief is characterised by volcanic plugs, dikes, calderas, cornices and domes. This unique geological complex results in one of the most scenically valuable coastal strips in the Spanish Mediterranean. In the southern part of the reserve are the coastal salt pans, a vitally important enclave for numerous migratory bird species. The summer season is notable for the arrival of various species, including flamingos, waders and gulls. The vegetation stands out for its formations of bushes and herbaceous plants, many of which are native. Moreover, species such as the scorpion fish, the sea bass and the kinglet are found on the seabed. In addition to encompassing the entire territory of the Natural Park and its surroundings, the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Biosphere Reserve has been declared a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA) and is included as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.