Racó de l'Olla Interpretation Center

If there is one top activity to do in Valencia, it's visiting the Natural Park of l'Albufera, a gift of nature 10 kilometers away from the city.  

The ecological value of this immense lagoon and the ecosystems that grow around it is hard to calculate: a lake separated from the sea by just a dense pine forest, where numerous native botanical species and characteristic rice fields bring life to a unique environment. 

And at the epicenter of that wonder is the Natural Reserve of Racó de l'Olla, 50 hectares between Devesa and l'Albufera, which has its own interpretation center that you can visit. 

What is an interpretation center?  

It's a space where you can learn all about a setting and its characteristics. Or, in other words: a place in which to soak up the enormous botanical and ornithological interest of this place through a set of informational, educational and interpretive programs on the wealth of this habitat. 

Plus, it's free. 

Here are some more details about this sanctuary of environmental education so you can plan your visit. 

Who is the Racó de l'Olla Interpretation Center for?

For anyone who loves nature and wants to know more about l'Albufera. 

As you can imagine, it's ideal for schoolchildren and research groups. If you're interested, there is an option to have a guided tour (reservation required). 

How to get to the Racó de l'Olla Interpretation Center

You can take your own vehicle and park conveniently in the parking lot. 

And if you prefer public transportation, EMT bus lines 24 and 25 leave you almost at the door. You will only have to walk a few meters on the shoulder to reach it.  

When's the best time of year to go to the Racó de l'Olla Interpretation Center? 

Although it's definitely worth a visit at any time of year, the most interesting months are May, June, July, November, December and January.  

When you go, be sure to take binoculars so you don't miss a thing. 

What you will find in Racó de l'Olla Interpretation Center

The center consists of different areas: 

• A visitor reception center that hosts an exhibition on the Racó de l'Olla Reserve and the Albufera Natural Park, perfect to get your bearings. 

• A lookout tower from which to take in a panoramic view of l'Albufera. 

• Bird observatories so you can watch the great variety of mainly aquatic birds that live there without interfering. And yes, this includes the star species: the colorful flamingos.  

• Interpretive trail about 400 meters long, where you can discover some of the botanical species adapted to the environments of the Devesa-Albufera habitat. 

Where you won't be able to go is inside the reserve proper, since it is set aside exclusively for waterfowl to nest and take shelter, which comes first and foremost. 

In short: the Racó de l'Olla Interpretation Center gives you everything you need to appreciate the value of this special habitat, and do so sustainably, which is why visiting with pets is not allowed anywhere in the Natural Reserve, including the Interpretation Center.