Alcázar de San Juan Lagoon Complex

The Alcázar de San Juan Lagoon Complex spans 695 hectares and comprises three lagoons: Camino de Villafranca, Las Yeguas and La Veguilla, located just 6 km from the city centre. This area holds four international protection designations: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA), Ramsar Wetland of International Importance and Wildlife Refuge. Its waters and shores host colonies of flamingos, white-headed ducks and numerous aquatic and steppe bird species, making it a top destination for birdwatching. Halophilic flora — sea lavender, suaeda and glasswort — carpets the shores, while in summer the landscape transforms into a lunar scene with salt concentrations unique in Western Europe. Guided visits and bird hides allow visitors to enjoy this privileged ecosystem throughout the year, with each season offering a different spectacle.