A 10-minute walk from the La Mata promenade, on the other side of the road, lies an entirely different world. 700 hectares of salt lake surrounded by Mediterranean scrubland, with colonies of pink flamingos that live here year-round.
The La Mata lagoon is part of the Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja nature park, the largest salt-lake system in south-east Spain. For La Mata residents this is not "an attraction to visit" — it is everyday life. Flamingos are visible from the balconies of many apartments.
At Granfield Estate we live with this view every day, and we know: for many buyers the lagoon is the deciding factor when choosing La Mata.
About the lagoon
The Laguna de La Mata is a salt lake covering approximately 700 hectares. Depth ranges from a few centimetres to 1 metre. Salinity far exceeds seawater — table salt is extracted here on an industrial scale.
The lagoon forms part of a nature park together with the neighbouring Laguna de Torrevieja (1,400 hectares). Both lagoons are protected areas with restricted access: you may walk only on designated paths.
Flamingos
The lagoon's star attraction is colonies of greater flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus). They live here year-round, but numbers peak in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the population reaches several thousand.
Where to watch
An observation platform (observatorio) with information boards stands on the northern shore. It is reachable on foot from La Mata centre in 15–20 minutes or by car (parking by the platform).
When to watch
Early morning (7:00–9:00) is the best time. Flamingos are most active, the light is soft and there are few visitors. Bring binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens.
Other birds
Besides flamingos, the lagoon is home to: black-winged stilts, herons, ducks, gulls, waders and avocets. The lagoon is an important stop on the bird migration route between Africa and Europe.
Walking routes
Lagoon circuit (6 km, 1.5 hours)
A circular route along the northern shore. Starting from the observation platform. The path passes through Mediterranean scrubland (rosemary, thyme, rockrose). Flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
Short route (2 km, 30 min)
From the observation platform to the southern shore and back. Ideal for a morning stroll. A good chance of seeing flamingos up close.
Therapeutic mud
Mud from the lagoon bed is considered therapeutic — a local tradition spanning decades. The mud contains salts, minerals and organic compounds. People coat themselves in it on the banks and let it dry in the sun.
Scientific evidence for its healing properties is limited, but the tradition endures. Access to the mud is free — on the southern shore, closer to Torrevieja.
Living near the lagoon
For many La Mata buyers the lagoon is at least as important as the beach. Apartments with lagoon and flamingo views are a unique offering found nowhere else on the coast.
Our Granfield Estate office is on the La Mata promenade, between the beach and the lagoon. We will help you find a property with a view you will never forget.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get close to the flamingos?
Observation takes place from designated platforms and paths. Approaching the birds is prohibited — this is a protected area. From the platform the flamingos are typically 50–200 metres away, but binoculars or a telephoto lens give an excellent view.
Are there flamingos all year round?
Yes, flamingos live on the lagoon year-round. But numbers vary: several thousand in spring and autumn, several hundred in summer and winter. Spring (March–May) is the best time for viewing.
Is there a smell from the lagoon?
In the hottest summer months (July–August), when the water level is at its lowest, a faint smell of salt and algae may be noticeable. At other times there is virtually no smell. Apartments in central La Mata (300–500 m from the lagoon) are unaffected.
Is the route suitable for cycling?
The main lagoon circuit is a dirt track suitable for mountain or hybrid bikes. Road bikes are not recommended. The route is flat and straightforward.
Why Granfield Estate?
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Office on the coast — we live here
Our office is in La Mata, Torrevieja. We know every neighbourhood, every street and the real prices — not from a catalogue, but from daily work on the ground.
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In-house lawyer — 10+ years of experience
NIE, bank account, property check, contract, notary — legal support at every step. First consultation free.
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Property management
Buying to rent? Our management company handles tenant search, maintenance and all questions.
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We speak your language
English, Spanish, Russian, German, Finnish, Swedish and more. Licence RAICV 1663, member of Asivega.
Granfield Estate · Av. Bélgica 1, C.C. Parquemar, La Mata, 03188 Torrevieja · +34 865 44 33 33
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