The Punta Entinas-Sabinar natural area, which includes the natural reserve with the same name, is located between the towns of Roquetas de Mar and El Ejido.
Within this particular subarid ecosystem, we can find four very different environments: dunes near the Mediterranean coast, sandy beaches, salt pans and small ponds. These are ideal resting spots for the native aquatic birds and others that arrive there in the middle of their regular migration journies.
Punta Entinas-Sabinar was declared a Natural Area and Natural Reserve in July 1989, thanks to the approval of the Andalusian Parliament, with the intention of giving this magnificent place the distinction it still deserves today.
However, it has been worthy of other forms of protection, such as the Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) and it has already been included in the Ramsar Convention, created in 1971, to highlight international wetlands that serve as habitats for waterfowl.
In addition, after its designation as an area of public use, this magnificent place has been visited by hundreds of tourists every year, determined to enjoy the variety of its natural spaces. There you can enjoy unique moments of relaxation and observe the wonders related to the native flora and fauna.
It is important to emphasise that the climate can reach an annual average of 18 degrees Celsius; and the annual rainfall is between 200 and 250 millimetres.
Flora and fauna
Like the natural scenery, the flora and fauna are extremely varied, offering a majestic touch to the area.
The Juniperus phoenicea predominates in the vegetation, from which, according to experts, the name of the place arises. We can also find lots of Pistacia lentiscus.
Chenopodioideae is also common, but even more common are Lycium intricatum, Spiny rush, Giant cane, Pallenis maritima, Limonium vulgare, Thymelaea hirsuta, Ziziphus lotus, Yellow restharrow, Phragmites and Cakile maritima.
There are also other plants called parasites such as Cynomorium and other non-native species such as the Tobacco tree, which comes from South America.
At the bottom of the sea there are also wonders of flora colonies such as the Posidonia Oceanica meadows, where the westernmost colony of the Mediterranean Sea is found in this area.
The constant presence of seagulls is a predominant feature in this area, as well as other birds such as flamingos, which feed on plants that grow in the ponds.
The Eurasian coot, considered a bird in danger of extinction, has also chosen this place as part of its habitat. You will also see mallards, dunlins and white-headed ducks, among many other birds.
It is also worth mentioning the common moorhen, the common pochard, the little egret, the grey heron and the black-winged stilt.
The route to take
If you decide to visit the place on foot, especially in summer, remember that although you are walking near the beach it is very hot, so you should go well prepared for the journey.
In general, the road is not difficult. The route has some turnings, so we recommend you go with a GPS or have a good sense of direction.
During the summer it is advisable to begin your journey at dawn, which starts from the end of the promenade, where the road begins.
On your trip you can find all kinds of scenery: pools, dunes and the sea, where you can refresh yourself as you continue your journey.
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