Ruidera Lakes Nature Reserve
The lagoons of La Mancha
A set of 16 lagoons, forming a natural lacustrine and fluvial spaces of unique characteristics in the middle of the La Mancha steppe.
Between the first lagoon, La Blanca, and the last, El Cenegal, there is a height difference of 120 metres, and the rest of the lagoons are linked between them, connected by waterfalls, small streams and underground currents.The Lagunas de Ruidera are popularly considered to be the source of the Guadiana River, one of the longest rivers in Spain. They are fed by the waters of underground aquifers and the river Pinilla.The main vegetation consists of reeds, masiega and rushes in the vicinity of the lagoons and junipers and holm oaks higher up. In its waters you can easily find barbel, carp, pike, water snakes and freshwater turtles, as well as waterfowl such as various species of ducks.
Ruidera Lakes Nature Reserve
Albacete (Castilla-La Mancha)
Ciudad Real (Castilla-La Mancha)
What you need to know
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Cultural information
From a cultural point of view, it is necessary to mention the relationship between the lagoons and the work of Cervantes, “Don Quixote de la Mancha”, as several passages of the work take place in this setting and its surroundings. In the nearby towns (Ossa de Montiel, Argamasilla de Alba, Villanueva de los Infantes, Alhambra, Ruidera and Tomelloso), visitors can find remarkable examples of artistic and cultural heritage. Next to the lagoons you can see the ruins of the castle of Rochafrida.
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Environmental information
Lagunas de Ruidera form a river and lake system with natural dams. It is located in the high plateau of Campo de Montiel. This natural park is home to an interesting variety of plant species and a wide range of animal species, including birds, which use it as a wintering area.
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Information for visits
The surroundings of the Lagunas de Ruidera can be visited freely, except for some areas reserved for wildlife refuge. Access to the Lagunas is usually from Ossa de Montiel or from Ruidera. You can find a visitor centre for the nature reserve in these two towns.
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