Marismas del Odiel

The Odiel marshes cover about seven thousand hectares where the Odiel and Tinto rivers meet the Atlantic beside Huelva, a system of tidal channels, salt pans, mudflats and islands declared a biosphere reserve in 1983. They hold the largest spoonbill breeding colony in Europe, along with flamingos present year-round, ospreys, terns, waders on migration and a large gull population. Two smaller reserves within, Isla de Enmedio and Marisma del Burro, have restricted access. A road runs along the Dique Juan Carlos I into the marshes with pull-ins and hides, and a visitor centre organises guided trips. The setting is complicated: a large petrochemical complex and the port sit directly alongside the reserve.

What you actually see

• The spoonbill colony - Europe's largest breeding population.
• The flamingos - present through the year on the salt pans.
• The tidal channels - a shifting system of mudflats and creeks.
• The hides and road - access along the dyke into the marshes.

When to go

September to April for the greatest numbers and variety, with migration peaks in autumn and spring; breeding runs through spring and early summer. Tides determine what is visible, and low water concentrates birds on the flats.

Honest expectations

The industrial complex beside the reserve is visible and audible throughout, which surprises visitors. Access to the core areas is restricted and needs a guided trip. Birds are distant and a scope helps considerably.

Nearby

Huelva city is alongside; La Rabida and the Donana marshes lie east.