One of the most valuable natural areas in the country is only 10 kilometres from Valencia. The Albufera Natural Park has the largest lake in Spain, with a total area of 21,120 hectares.

When tourists visit Valencia, it is a favourite site because the sunsets are magnificent. Not only that, but it also has a diverse flora and fauna that is unlike anything else in Spain.

Local skippers have made their handcrafted boats, known as 'albuferenc', available to the public to learn more about this unique region, and they also operate as guides on the journeys.

A boat tour is the most popular way to see the Albufera of Valencia! There are various itineraries you may choose to enjoy the beauty of this natural area.

What kinds of boat tours are available in the Albufera?

- 40-minute boat trip: the most popular way to see the Albufera Natural Park is to take a 40-minute boat ride. Enough time to cruise around the saltwater lagoon and discover more about the history of Valencia's most picturesque resort.

They usually begin at the 'La Barquera y Tonet' jetty and are always accompanied by a professional guide.

During the boat ride, they will discuss the park's features, including its diverse flora and animals, as well as give you a quick overview of the lagoon's fishing.

Children are always welcome, and the costs are extremely reasonable. These are lovely, calm hikes, ideal for learning more about the history of this magnificent site and observing the natural beauty that surrounds it.

- Boat trip with delicious paella: On this trip, you have a little more time to get to know the Albufera and the birds that fly over the Mata de Fang, located to the southwest of the Devesa de El Saler. Purple Gallinule, herons, gulls and cormorants are some commonly seen birds during visits to the park.

It is undoubtedly one of the most popular attractions for Albufera visitors. This is because the best paella is claimed to be prepared in El Palmar, a village on the banks of the Natural Park. This is the ideal combo because you can enjoy a delicious traditional paella in the town of El Palmar while taking in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

- Sunset boat ride: If there's one thing this natural wonder is known for, it is its magnificent sunsets. The vibrant colours clash with the lagoon's waters, creating a one-of-a-kind visual experience. These trips are usually 2 hours long. This is enough time to reach the main point, anchor and appreciate the beauty of a sunset in the Albufera. Watching the more than 300 species of birds flying over the Natural Park at sunset is an incredible experience.

- Full-day excursion: The Albufera offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in a complete experience. These are normally 6-hour boat cruises during which you go through the lagoon's salt waters as the skippers discuss the park's history.

This is a hybrid of the three previous options, as it includes the opportunity to sample El Palmar's delectable paella as well as a stunning sunset from the boats. The guides will demonstrate how salt is extracted in El Saler and how the Gala de Pujol's sluice gates connect the Albufera to the Mediterranean Sea.

And that's not all, with these tours of the Albufera, you will be able to walk through the main streets and emblematic monuments of the 18th century. Then you will be taken to the unspoilt dunes in the park! You can admire the flora and the panoramic views of the Mediterranean and its beaches.

During these boat trips, you can also choose the option of combining it with 4x4 routes! You will be taken to the Devesa del Saler to get the adrenaline pumping on the perfect terrain for an off-road vehicle.

However, if you prefer something quieter, you can also combine the boat ride with a bike ride, as there are several places where you can get a bike in the Albufera. In short, getting to know the Albufera Natural Park on a boat trip is the best option. You can soak up its history and anecdotes while you enjoy a pleasant ride along its waters.