Top 9 Lakes around L'Escala
Best lakes around L'Escala offers access to diverse aquatic environments, from coastal wetlands to significant natural lakes. L'Escala is a coastal town, but its surrounding region features notable natural water bodies, including the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park. This area is characterized by a mosaic of ecosystems, providing habitats for abundant flora and fauna. Visitors can explore various lakes and wetlands, experiencing the natural landscape of Catalonia.
Best lakes around L'Escala
- The most popular lakes is La Pletera bird observatory…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Cortalet Pond
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Matà Lakes (Matar Rice Fields)
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La Pletera bird observatory
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Baix Ter Wetlands Nature Reserve
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Can Comas Wetlands
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Popular around L'Escala
On the road to the sun — bikepacking to southeast Spain
The paradise of the Costa Brava — Trail Running from Girona to Llançà
Landscapes and monuments of the Empordà plain by bike -- Pirinexus
The Catalan coast on foot – Mediterranean Path (GR 92)
From the Mediterranean to the Pre-Pyrenees – Historical Path in Catalonia (GR 1)
A journey through the Catalan Mediterranean – Tour of the Costa Brava
Mediterranean coastal paradise – EuroVelo 8 in Spain
Hiking around L'Escala
Running Trails around L'Escala
MTB Trails around L'Escala
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Tips from the Community
It’s a beautiful open area in the Parc. Grazing cattle and a few ruins give the plain character. The gravelroad is super smooth and accessible for all kind of bikes.
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A beautiful small gravel path perfect for gravelbiking. This gravel is super smooth. This path takes you away from the main road so you can enjoy the beauty of the natural park.
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Aiguamolls and ruins
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Please note, within the Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l'Empordà, bicycles are not allowed. However, it seems that the practice is tolerated out of season and outside busy periods. While respecting the calm of the reserve.
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"Slow down and quietly approach the pond at the end of the trail. It won't be long before you start seeing birds you've never seen before, and hopefully, maybe some more surprises. In my case, the surprise was a beautiful one example of a feral cat. Due to the strong north wind, the cat had not seen me when I approached. However, when it noticed my presence, it chose to crouch down and blend in with its surroundings. I knew I had seen it, and the distance between us was of only 5 meters. The cat used a surprising tactic by moving its eyes in the direction I had come as if something was going to happen. When I turned my head in that direction, I gained a few precious seconds to disappear among the weeds. It was a memorable encounter with nature and a lesson on the cunning and adaptability of feral cats in their natural environment. Feral cats are domestic cats that return to a wild state due to the lack of interaction with humans. They often originate from abandoned or lost cats. They have a similar appearance to domestic cats and are good hunters. In some areas, they form feral colonies. Overpopulation can be a problem, and it is controlled by sterilization. The presence of feral cats raises public health concerns and can have a negative impact on the local fauna. Animal welfare organizations often work in programs for their management and care. The lake of Cortalet is a wetland with a surface area of about 146 hectares. It consists of the Cortalet lake itself and an additional plot located to the north, called Les Mollerusses, made up of some closes and also managed as a wetland, with a sheet of water during most of the year. Estany del Cortalet is a large artificial pond designed and built in old meadows adjacent to the Information Center of the Natural Park. Its main purpose is to facilitate the observation of birds for many of the Park's visitors, its ecological interest being basically ornithological. The most abundant community in the space is the reedbed.
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Coastal lagoons resulting from the deconstruction of an urbanization. Thanks to a Life project, a lagoon space behind the beach has been rebuilt, just as it should have been before it was developed. Numerous species of birds take refuge there, especially in winter and in migration, which can be observed from a magnificent observatory. https://www.flickr.com/photos/66451146@N08/48988123121
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Magnificent view from the plain to the Montgri massif.
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The Matà lakes (also known as Matar rice paddies) are a wet area of artificial origin that occupies an approximate area of 91 hectares. In the past, rice was cultivated on this surface. The space is currently flooded by pumping, trying to maintain optimal levels for the populations of waterfowl that frequent the space.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural water bodies can I explore near L'Escala?
Near L'Escala, you can explore diverse aquatic environments, including significant wetlands and natural lakes. The region features the extensive Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park, known for its rivers, lagoons, and both brackish and freshwater lakes. Additionally, Catalonia's largest natural lake, Lake Banyoles, is a short distance away, offering a different natural experience.
Are there any natural parks with lakes near L'Escala?
Yes, the most prominent natural park with lakes near L'Escala is the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park. It's the second-largest wetland in Catalonia and a crucial ecological site, home to lakes like El Cortalet and Europa. You can also find wetlands and reserves like the Baix Ter Wetlands Nature Reserve within the broader area.
Which lakes are best for birdwatching around L'Escala?
The Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park is exceptional for birdwatching, with over 327 species of birds. Specific spots include Cortalet Pond, an artificial pond designed to facilitate bird observation, and La Pletera bird observatory, which features coastal lagoons rebuilt for bird refuge, especially during winter and migration.
Are there family-friendly lakes or wetlands to visit?
Yes, several locations are suitable for families. The Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park offers accessible dirt tracks and observation hides, making it easy to explore with children. Cortalet Pond, La Pletera bird observatory, Matà Lakes (Matar Rice Fields), Baix Ter Wetlands Nature Reserve, and Can Comas Wetlands are all categorized as family-friendly.
Can I go swimming in any of the lakes?
While many lakes in the region are wetlands focused on wildlife, Lake Banyoles, Catalonia's largest natural lake, offers designated zones for swimming during the summer months. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The areas around the lakes offer various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and cycling around Lake Banyoles. The Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park has dirt tracks for exploration, though bicycles are generally not allowed within the reserve itself, except perhaps off-season. For more structured activities, you can find numerous routes for road cycling, gravel biking, and running in the broader L'Escala region.
Are there any easy walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park features accessible dirt tracks that are suitable for easy walks, allowing you to observe nature and birdlife. Lake Banyoles also has a 7-kilometer shoreline perfect for leisurely walks around its perimeter.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The wetlands and lakes near L'Escala are rich in biodiversity. The Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park is famous for its birdlife, including spoonbills, nightingales, and white storks. Lake Banyoles is home to a wide array of animal and plant species, such as various birds, otters, turtles, water snakes, and over three hundred species of butterflies.
Is it possible to cycle near the lakes?
While cycling is generally restricted within the core areas of the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park to preserve its tranquility, there are smooth gravel paths like those near Cortalet Pond that are suitable for gravel biking outside the main reserve. Lake Banyoles offers excellent cycling opportunities around its perimeter. For more cycling options, explore gravel biking routes in the L'Escala area.
What is the best time to visit the lakes for wildlife observation?
The Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park is particularly celebrated for its birdlife, with many species taking refuge there, especially in winter and during migration periods. Visiting during these times will offer the best opportunities for birdwatching.
Are the lakes and wetlands accessible by public transport?
Information regarding specific public transport routes directly to all lake sites is limited. However, L'Escala is one of the municipalities associated with the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park, and local tourist offices can provide guidance on reaching the park. For Lake Banyoles, it's a short distance from the Costa Brava beaches, and local transport options would likely be available from nearby towns.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes and wetlands?
Specific dog policies can vary by natural area. For the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park, it's generally advised to check local regulations as natural parks often have restrictions to protect wildlife. Always keep dogs on a leash and ensure they do not disturb the natural environment or other visitors.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, Lake Banyoles and its surroundings boast historical and cultural interest. You can find a Neolithic park showcasing ancient settlements and a well-preserved Romanesque church in the area, adding a cultural dimension to your visit.
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