DiscoveringTorrevieja’s Enchanting Pink Lake

One of Torrevieja’s most popular natural attractions is Laguna Rosa. As its name suggests, the lagoon has waters showcasing an entirely pink hue. Because of this, Laguna Rosa, or Pink Lake, has gained popularity worldwide, attracting tourists and visitors every year who visit the strawberry milkshake-colored lagoon.

Laguna Rosa is just one of the two large salt lakes that make up the Parque Natural de Torrevieja (Natural Park of Torrevieja). The park is an expansive nature reserve with a total area of 3700 hectares—Laguna Rosa having an area of 1400 hectares, while the green Salt Lake of La Mata is 700 hectares.

What is the address?

ADDRESS: Calle de las Lavanderas, 10, 03185 Torrevieja, Alicante

How to get there:

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BY CAR: Set a course for El Hondo Urbanization on Google Maps. Upon arriving at the destination, one can immediately see a fence with direct access to the Pink Lake. You may also set a course for “Laguna Rosa” or “Las Salinas de Torrevieja” specifically, but this will lead you to another entrance of the nature reserve that may be closed at certain times of the day.

BY BUS: From the Torrevieja Bus Station at Calle del Mar, take the Line B bus to Torretas. Get off at the children’s playground in Torreta III. Across the area, there is a path that leads directly to the lake from the street. When traveling to the Pink Lake for the first time, it is helpful to inform the bus driver of your destination (Laguna Rosa) to know exactly where to get off.

BY TAXI: Tell the driver that you are heading to Laguna Rosa. You may also say that you are going to Parque Natural de Torrevieja if you wish to visit and explore the nature reserve surrounding the Pink Lake.

Where to park:

Cars can park along the street at Calle de las Lavanderas, and walk the rest of the way to the nature reserve.

Is access free?

Yes, entrance to Parque Natural de Torrevieja and the two salt lakes within it are free to everyone.

Why is the lake pink?

An unusual type of bacteria called halobacteria that thrive on extremely saline environments is what’s responsible for the lake’s bubblegum-pink hue. A type of single-celled algae called Dunaliella salina also contributes to the reddish-pink coloration of the lake. Creatures such as Artemia saline crustaceans acquire a pink hue by feeding on the algae and bacteria, and consequently, flamingos feeding on them develop the same kind of coloration in their feathers.

Is it pink all year round?

No, the lake’s pink hue is only clearly visible during the warmer months, when temperatures are higher. During this time, the bacteria and algae are more active, thus giving off the lake’s color.

Can you swim or bathe in the lake?

No, swimming, bathing or even dipping in the waters of the lake are prohibited. Large signs on the entrance of the park and near the lake make this clear. This is enforced because the lake is home to many rare organisms—including, and especially, the very bacteria and algae that are responsible for the pink color. Our skins may contain traces of chemicals (in our lotions, soaps, etc.) and foreign substances that could disturb the delicate balance of the lake.

Can you float like in the Dead Sea?

One could very well float on the water much like in the Dead Sea, due to the lake’s extreme level of salinity. Keep in mind, however, that this is not allowed!

What are the best things to do in Laguna Rosa?

When visiting the Pink Lake, it is advised to drop by the Interpretation Center (Centro de Interpretación) first. This office can be found near the entrance of the Parque Natural de Torrevieja, and is where you can find plenty of information regarding the two salt lakes, flora and fauna found in the nature reserve, and even interesting places to visit in Torrevieja.

After this, you can explore the entirety of the nature reserve through a guided tour which will allow you to know more about the wide variety of plants and animals native to the region—some even considered endangered species.

Upon arriving at the Pink Lake, visitors are encouraged to stroll along the lakeside and enjoy the fresh, healthy air. After all, Torrevieja’s salt lakes are actually the reason why the city is considered by the World Health Organization as having one of the healthiest microclimates in the world.

Are there guided tours?

Yes. Visit the Interpretation Center (Visitors’ Center) to arrange for a guided tour of the nature reserve. When planning for a group tour of more than 15 people, it is important to call the office in advance.

CONTACT NUMBER: (+34) 965 721 650

What are the best times to visit?

While the nature reserve and salt lakes are open to visitors all year round, it is best to visit during the summer season, as this is when the lake is visibly pink. Visit during the early evening for an opportunity to capture the beautiful sunset over the lagoon’s pink waters.

When is the best time and season to see flamingos?

Aside from its fascinating pink color, another attraction of the lagoon is the hundreds of flamingos that flock together as a flamboyance (a group of flamingos) in the Pink Lake to dip, feed and perform their mating ritual dances. While they are present from February to July, the biggest concentration of flamingos can be observed during their breeding season in the months of March, April, and May. They usually gather on the lake during the day.

Are there toilets or facilities in the area?

No.

What to bring when visiting the Pink Lake?

Make sure to bring plenty of fresh water, a mosquito repellent, caps, sunglasses, and / or parasols to protect yourself from the sun, and of course, a good camera!