Torrevieja Salt Lakes (Las Salinas de Torrevieja)

The basics

Visitors can explore the salt lakes on a 1-hour guided train ride, which offers insights into salt production, the lakes, and their wildlife and ecosystem, along with a shopping break to purchase salt products. Guided bike and walking tours are also available and include stops at the industrial area with abandoned factories, old chemical ponds, and mountains of salt. It’s possible to visit the salt lakes independently; there’s a public entrance to the pink lake of Torrevieja and a nature park around the lake of La Mata.

Things to know before you go

• It’s best to book ahead for guided tours, though train tickets can be purchased directly from the train.

• Swimming is not permitted in the lake; there’s a hefty fine for those who are caught.

• Dogs are not permitted on the train.

How to get there

The salt lakes are located near the town of Torrevieja in Costa Blanca. Guided train, bike, and walking tours from Torrevieja offer easy ways to visit. You can also take the Line B bus from Torrevieja bus station toward Torreta, getting off on Calle Urano and walking to Calle Sol to access the public entrance to the pink lake. It’s also easy to bike or drive there, with free parking available nearby.

When to get there

It’s best to visit the salt lakes from June to September, when you’re more likely to enjoy sunny days and see the lake of Torrevieja at its most vivid shade of pink. Train tours are offered almost daily year-round (depending on the weather) and last around one hour, while bike and walking tours are offered less frequently and last from 1.5 to two hours. Check the website for the latest tour schedule.

The Sea and Salt Museum

Located in Torrevieja, the Sea and Salt Museum (El Museo del Mar y la Sal) is a small museum with free admission that offers exhibits showcasing the salt extraction industry and seafaring culture of the area, along with old photographs, a model of the salt port, and model ships and buildings made from salt.