Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park is undoubtedly one of the most famous places of La Mancha. This natural spot contains 15 small lakes which are connected by falls, rivers as well as subterranean flow and the area is considered to be the source of Guadiana River. The place got a nickname "The Mirrors of La Mancha" and is well-known as the land of Don Quixote from the famous book of Cervantes. The writer paid tribute to the beauty and uniqueness of these lands. The natural park within the biosphere reserve Mancha Húmeda is protected by UNESCO. A place of fantasy which includes ancient Arab trails and the Montesinos cave, the most literary cavern in the world.
This place is home to rich flora and fauna. In the waters, you can spot barbel, carp, pike, water snakes, and tortoises. Also, the main vegetation here is made of rushes, reeds, holm oaks.
But lakes are a major attraction here. The source of these lakes is a series of springs that come together between the towns Ossa de Montiel and Ruidera. The first lake called "La Blanca" and the last lake "La Cenagosa". Some of the lakes are connected and create a real oasis. The landscape is one of the most beautiful you have ever seen, for sure. These lakes also provide a rest area for migratory birds. Be ready to meet pochards, red-crested pochards, common mallard, great crested grebes and purple herons.
You can enjoy hiking, hunting, fishing, horse riding or cycling, as well as 4x4 tours. Also, this is a good place for walking, canoeing, and scuba diving. So it can be your best alone or family vacation in Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park in Spain. This deserted place will allow you to find lessons for your soul, or just flutter in a quiet natural place.
Ruidera Lakes may be visited all year round but the best time is considered spring and autumn when the weather is the most amiable and the nature is especially beautiful and rich.
Practical info
What makes Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park unique from other natural parks in Spain?
The Mirrors of La Mancha, also known as Lagunas de Ruidera, stands out for its 15 interconnected small lakes separated by rivers, waterfalls as well as for the ancient Arab trails and Montesinos Cave found there. It is also considered to be the source of Guadiana River. Show more
How many lakes are in Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park and what connects them?
Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park has 15 small lakes that are interlinked by rivers, subterranean flow, and waterfalls. They offer a beautiful scenery with transparent water that reflects the sky with the freshwater serving as Guadiana River's source. Show more
Which species of fish and other aquatic animals can be found in the lakes of Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park?
The interconnected lakes in Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park offer a rich habitat for a variety of aquatic animals, including barbel, carp, pike, water snakes, and tortoises. This habitat also attracts migratory birds like pochards, red-crested pochards, and purple herons among others. The area is thick with reeds, rushes, and holm oaks creating a real oasis. Show more
What are the main activities and things to do in Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park?
Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park is a favorite spot for nature lovers, offering a wealth of outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, fishing, horse riding, cycling, canoeing, 4x4 tours, and walking. Visitors can also relax on pristine lakeside beaches and savor delicious local cuisine in the countless bars and restaurants available in the area. Show more
When is the best time to visit Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park in Spain?
Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park is an ideal destination between March to May and September to November. These periods offer mild weather conditions, picturesque landscapes, and outstanding flora and fauna. Summer months are unbearably hot while winter temperatures can get very low. Autumn signals the leaves' transformation providing a stunning view of nature's picturesque painting. Show more
