"Donana" National Park in Spain

The Doñana National Park is the largest National park in Spain and one of the most important in Europe. The 50,720 hectares of protected land is located within several provinces of southern Spain. The park consists of several unique ecosystems benefiting from the mild climate. The park is home to many important plant species and a wealth of wildlife. Many rare birds migrate here.
The authorities have managed to protect the area yet make it available for public use and enjoyment in the form of campsites, recreation grounds and long, golden beaches. The various bird watching stations combine with excellent visitor information centres and planned walking or cycling routes. Each year the park receives hundreds of thousands of visitors.
Many of the villages and towns around the park are worthy of a visit. Such as the town of El Rocio, a unique and strange place of worship. Here you will also find a large lake (above) that is home to flamingos and other birds. Sit in the restaurant and enjoy the tranquility.
If its beaches that you require then head for Matalascañas, Mazagón or Chipiona.

One of the best ways to see much of the park is by means of a boat that sails from Sanlúcar de Barrameda and up the river, making two stops where guided tours are given. The office for bookings is located in the old ice factory in Sanlúcar. You will also find a very interesting visitors centre here with several displays. As you drive or walk through the park you will see vast expanses of low pine trees, tiny natural waterways and marshland. The area has always been of major importance to Spain. It began as a royal hunting ground and in 1964 the first 6794 hectares of land was purchased in order to protect it. In 1969 the Doñana National Park was declared and later, in 1978 it was given its own legal regime. In 1994 the park was declared a National Heritage site.