LAGUNAS DE RUIDERA [PARQUE NATURAL EN LA MANCHA]

THE MIRACLE OF WATER! On our trip through Castilla-La Mancha, we couldn't miss the natural spectacle of the Ruidera Lakes. They are the best example of lakes formed by the accumulation of calcium carbonate (tufa). The rainwater that falls on the Campo de Montiel infiltrates aquifer 24, which has its natural overflow in this area, giving rise to the Upper Guadiana or Pinilla River. These waters, extraordinarily rich in carbonates, have formed impressive natural dams over thousands of years of precipitation, creating spectacular waterfalls between the lakes. This protected natural area is located between the provinces of Albacete and Ciudad Real and comprises the following lagoons: Laguna Blanca, Laguna Conceja, Laguna Tomilla, Laguna Tinaja, Laguna de San Pedro, Laguna Redondilla, Laguna Lengua, Laguna Salvadora, Laguna Santos Morcillo, Laguna Batana, Laguna Colgada, Laguna del Rey, Laguna Cueva Morenilla, Laguna Coladilla, and Laguna Cenagosa. WHAT WE WILL SEE Flora The park's vegetation is very diverse, ranging from native woodlands to marshland. The slopes and higher areas are covered with holm oaks, kermes oaks, junipers, and savin junipers. In more open areas, the holm oak forest gives way to dense scrubland composed of kermes oaks, labiates, broom, and gorse. Fauna More than 250 species of vertebrates inhabit the park. Of these, mammals are the most difficult to spot. However, the birds, especially the waterfowl, quickly capture attention. Most hide among the marsh vegetation surrounding the water's edge, such as the water rail, the moorhen, and the great reed warbler, whose unmistakable song enlivens the reedbeds. Among the most emblematic species are the marsh harrier and the tufted duck. ACCESS The Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park is located in the Upper Guadiana River Valley (or Pinilla River) and forms the provincial border between Ciudad Real and Albacete. From Ciudad Real or Madrid, take the N-IV to Manzanares, and from there take the N-430, passing through La Solana, Alhambra, and Ruidera. From Albacete, take the N-430. BEST TIME TO VISIT WHAT TO BRING A Mediterranean climate with moderate rainfall makes the Ruidera Lakes suitable for visiting almost any time of year. If you're looking for peace and quiet, autumn or winter are preferable. It's a cool area in winter. Don't forget your swimsuit to cool off in summer. Comfortable clothing is also recommended. Visit the website: https://areasprotegidas.castillalaman... #5minutehikes #castillalamancha #castillalamanchatourism #ruideralakes #naturalpark