Practical guide to s’Albufera des Grau: signposted trails, viewpoints, birdwatching, and connection to the Camí de Cavalls.
Easy trails through reed beds, viewpoints in soft light, and the pink hue of flamingos in s’Albufera des Grau. If you’re into nature Easy trails through reed beds, viewpoints in soft light, and the pink hue of flamingos in s’Albufera des Grau. If you’re into nature photography, birdwatching, and the Camí de Cavalls, here’s the precise guide to plan your outing.
What makes S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park special
The natural heart of Menorca and its role in the Biosphere Reserve
S’Albufera des Grau is Menorca’s flagship wetland and the island’s only natural park. Declared by Decree 50/1995 and expanded in 2003, it integrates lagoon, marshes, coastline, islets and traditional farmland into a mosaic exceeding 5,000 ha. It is a core area of the Menorca UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993.
Flora and fauna you can find during your visit
The park blends reedbeds, wild olive woods, holm oak groves, dunes and rocky shores with coastal socarrells. This mosaic supports ducks, waders, raptors and seasonal visitors such as the greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus). Diversity is best enjoyed from the official hides and viewpoints along the signposted routes.
Three signposted routes inside S’Albufera des Grau
1. Sa Gola route: the most accessible walk
2.2 km · 45 min. Start at Es Grau car park. Walk 250 m along the verge towards Maó to the gates that mark the trailhead. Cross the stone bridge over “sa Gola” with views of old fishermen’s huts. Follow the wooden boardwalk to the first viewpoint, then climb to a second one for a near-panoramic view of the lagoon. Continue through woodland and finish at Es Grau beach, returning to the car park along the shore. Interpretive signage. Open 24/7. Shaded sections. Access on foot and by bike. Partially adapted for wheelchairs and strollers.
2. Cala Llimpa viewpoint route: open views and birdwatching
1.7 km (40 min), moderate difficulty. Trailhead at the small car park 400 m north of the visitor centre. A bird hide appears shortly after the start and a viewpoint at the end overlooks the sluice area of the lagoon. Best birding late autumn and winter. Rocky path with little shade. Foot access only. Open 24/7.
3. Santa Madrona route: between lagoons and Mediterranean scrub
2.8 km (75 min), moderate difficulty. Starts at the car park 400 m north of the visitor centre; includes screens and hides and ends at es Prat, the shallowest area of the lagoon with extensive reeds. Best season to see more species: winter, when migrants arrive. Rocky trail with no shade. Foot access only. Open 24/7.
Tips to enjoy the routes in autumn and winter
- Best light and fewer people from October to February.
- Favour sunrise and sunset for birdwatching and photography.
- Bring a windbreaker, water and grippy footwear; respect signs and any temporary closures.
Camí de Cavalls: Es Grau → Favàritx—perfect extension to your visit
From Sa Gola access you can join the Es Grau – Cap de Favàritx stage of the GR-223 Camí de Cavalls. Around 8.6 km, moderate difficulty, 3–3.5 hours on foot. Very photogenic in the low season.
Coastal path with coves, dunes and the dark shoreline near Favàritx. Vegetation adapted to wind and salt. Plan an out-and-back or arrange a transfer according to your pace.
Living nature in the park: wildlife, flora and birdwatching
Wildlife you can spot along the route
In the colder months the lagoon concentrates waterbirds and makes discreet observation easier: common coot, black-necked grebe, great cormorant and western marsh harrier, among others.
Common species and seasonal behaviour
Winter and migration periods bring mixed flocks, resting and feeding along sheltered shores. Wind ripples the water and triggers flights; thin clouds deliver soft colour and contrast.
Where to see flamingos and other birds in S’Albufera des Grau
Best lookout points and hides
- Cala Llimpa viewpoint: open horizon, high chance of reflections.
- Sa Gola: lagoon–sea exchange channel, integrated screens.
- Santa Madrona: inland habitats with perches and flight paths.
When to see flamingos and migrants
Highest likelihood from October to February, with sightings also during spring and autumn migration. Aim for sunrise or sunset.
Responsible birdwatching and photography tips
- Keep distance and silence. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens.
- No playback; no drones without authorisation.
- Organised activities may require permits.
Services, access and park rules
Visitor Centre and opening hours
The Rodríguez Femenías Visitor & Interpretation Centre opens 9:00–15:00 daily. Outside opening hours, information boards are available outdoors. Staff provide route guidance and there is a permanent exhibition.
What you can (and can’t) do in the park
- Free entry.
- Dogs are not allowed near the lagoon or on the three signposted routes.
- Respect signs, dry-stone walls and farmland with livestock.
- Drones and large groups require prior authorisation.
Where to stay to explore S’Albufera des Grau
Sagitario Hotels: rest, local gastronomy and slow experiences
A quiet base in Ciutadella de Menorca with easy road access to the NE. Recover after your outings with spa and **KM0** produce:
Enhance your stay with Sagitario Hotels’ Spas and **KM0** Gastronomy.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Es Grau in Menorca?
Road access from Maó. The visitor centre sits at the park entrance with up-to-date maps and notices.
Which routes are easiest for families?
Sa Gola and Cala Llimpa for short, flat tracks with hides and clear signage.
Where can I see flamingos in the park?
Best chances at Cala Llimpa and discreet spots along Sa Gola at sunrise or sunset between October and February.
How long does each route take?
Each of the three routes takes roughly 40–75 min depending on pace; they can be combined into a half-day plan.
Are pets allowed?
No, not near the lagoon or on the official signposted routes. Check current rules at the visitor centre.
Explore S’Albufera des Grau—routes, flamingos and nature in its purest form
Plan your visit and your stay with Sagitario Hotels to experience Menorca at its most authentic.
