Description
Serra d'Irta Natural Park and Irta Marine Nature Reserve combine forest nature with the influence of the Valencian coast. A perfect experience for visitors looking for outdoor activities. It is located in the region of Baix Maestrat in the northern part of the province of Castellón, between the municipalities of Peñíscola, Santa Magdalena de Pulpis, Alcalà de Xivert and Alcossebre.
This protected area is one of the most beautiful in the Region of Valencia, formed by a coastal mountain range featuring low and medium-height cliffs. The Badum tower, likely of Muslim origin, is located at the top. Two castles were built there in the past due to its strategic location, making the landscape even more magical, located in the towns of Alcalà de Xivert and Santa Magdalena de Pulpis.
Another distinguishing feature of the landscape is the presence of dry stone terraces, remains of subsistence agriculture, now abandoned and recolonised by natural vegetation, ruins that teach us about the customs and tools of antiquity.
One of the characteristics that makes the reserves a special place for birdwatching is the fact that they are located on a migratory route, where you can observe different birds of prey and water birds on the coast, if only for a while.
Main species
Residents: Bonelli’s eagle, lesser whitethroat, common kestrel, common buzzard, short-toed snake eagle, Audouin’s gull, European shag and yellow-legged gull.
Winter: Great cormorant and black-headed gull.
Recommended seasons
Spring, autumn and winter.
Facilities
- Parking
- Interpretation centre
- Interpretive routes and trails
- Recreational area
- Nearby accommodations
Birdwatching points of interest
- Torre Badum and Pla del Pebret
Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Weekends and festivities 09:30h - 14.30h.