The best walks and hikes around La Mata
4.9
(10)
85
hikers
29
hikes
Hiking around La Mata offers access to the unique landscapes of the Natural Park of La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons. The region is characterized by two distinct saltwater lagoons, one famously pink and the other green, separated by a narrow strip of land. Trails traverse diverse ecosystems including Mediterranean scrub, pine forests, vineyards, and salt marshes, with vegetation adapted to saline conditions. The terrain is generally flat, providing accessible routes for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around La Mata
…Last updated: November 1, 2026
4.5
(2)
11
hikers
8.13km
02:37
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
8.41km
02:36
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
9.92km
02:49
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4
hikers
8.53km
02:31
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
2
hikers
4km
01:11
120m
120m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
Mirambel is a village integrated into the network of The Beautiful Villages of Spain. Currently, 110 residents officially live there. Beautiful village, extremely well-maintained (received the Europa Nostra Gold Medal in 1981 for its restoration efforts). Completely walled, some parts still visible. Enter through the portal of the Nuns to see the plaster latticework and wooden decorations. Points of interest: Mirambel Church, Casa Aliaga, Casa Castellot, Easy access with parking for cars at the entrance of the village from where you can start the visit to the village or the nearby PR route. It has a small supermarket in the very center where you can find local food and water. Restrictive opening hours (come equipped or check beforehand).
0
0
Cinctorres, in the Els Ports de Morella region, is a small town surrounded by mountains and ravines, notable for the Roca Roja and Roca Parda natural viewpoints from which vultures are easily spotted. Its town center preserves squares and manor houses, as well as the Church of San Pedro Apóstol and several chapels. The route to the Sellumbres ravine offers an ideal setting for cycling through pine and holm oak forests, with gentle slopes and quiet country roads. It's advisable to bring binoculars to enjoy the birds of prey in flight, and make time to visit the local museum, which displays fossils and artifacts from traditional life.
2
0
Mirambel is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Maestrazgo: its complete walls, the beautiful Portal de las Monjas (Monks' Gate) with its latticework, and palaces like Casa Aliaga give it a film-like feel (Tierra y Libertad was filmed here). Cycling through its cobbled streets and heading towards the Cantavieja ravine allows you to connect with marked GR 8 trails and quiet paths toward Cantavieja or La Cuba, between meadows and pollarded black poplars. It's a perfect plan for gravel or trekking, with short but challenging climbs and uneven ground in some sections.
1
0
Population of the Els Ports region, in the province of Castellón (Valencian Community). Its name probably comes from the gallows shape made by the Bergantes, Cantavieja and Caldés rivers. Its origin can be located in an Ibero-Romanesque population center discovered in 1876, and which the locals knew as "La Moleta dels Frares or Liborio". For the researchers it was an important Roman villa, and a good part of its wall is still standing in the entrance area of the town. Its cultural heritage includes the Virgen de la Consolación hermitage, the 18th-century parish church, built from the primitive 13th-century Gothic church, the aforementioned Moleta dels Frares, the Plaza Mayor and the 16th-century Osset-Miró palace. .
0
0
The town of Mirambel is included in the list of the 100 most beautiful in Spain and with good reason! Arriving at the town the views are wonderful and when you enter the town and walk through its streets you will feel that you have traveled back in time.
2
0
Ruins of the old Hermitage of Sant Marc, a curious construction due to its simplicity and still standing today. It is located in a truly remote place and that gives it an additional charm, a very quiet place, ideal for making a stop on the route and contemplating the landscape and the silence.
1
0
The town of Mirambel is included in the list of the 100 most beautiful in Spain and with good reason! Entering the town and walking through its narrow streets is a journey back in time. Arriving from the road, the view of the town is wonderful and worthy of a postcard!
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around La Mata?
Hikes around La Mata primarily feature the unique landscapes of the Natural Park of La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons. The terrain is generally flat, traversing diverse ecosystems including Mediterranean scrub, pine forests, vineyards, and salt marshes. You'll find vegetation adapted to saline conditions, and some routes offer shade from large eucalyptus and Aleppo pine trees.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options in La Mata?
Yes, La Mata offers several easy and family-friendly hiking options. The Natural Park has well-marked trails suitable for various fitness levels, including easy strolls. For example, the Alto del Castillo loop from Olocau del Rey is an easy 4 km route, and the Ermita de Sant Marc loop from Cinctorres is another accessible 5.6 km path, both perfect for a relaxed outing.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in La Mata?
The Natural Park of La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons is a protected area. While specific rules for dogs can vary, it's generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash to protect the delicate ecosystems and abundant wildlife, especially during bird nesting seasons. Always check local signage or the park's visitor center for the most current regulations regarding pets.
What unique natural features or wildlife can I see while hiking?
Hiking in La Mata offers a chance to see unique natural features like the famous pink Laguna de Torrevieja and the green Laguna de La Mata. The park is a vital refuge for numerous species, making birdwatching a popular activity. You might spot flamingos, stilts, avocets, and red-crested pochards. The presence of *Artemia salina*, a tiny crustacean, is also a significant ecological feature that supports the birdlife. Rabbits and squirrels can also be seen.
Are there any circular walks in La Mata?
Yes, many of the trails in La Mata are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Mirambel – Mirambel loop from Mirambel, which is 8.1 km. Another great choice is the Forcall loop from El Forcall, a moderate 8.4 km path offering views of the natural environment.
What are some interesting places to explore near the hiking trails?
Beyond the natural beauty of the lagoons, you can explore charming nearby settlements like Cinctorres, Forcall, and Mirambel. You can also visit the historic Ermita de Sant Marc or see the impressive Muela de Todolella Wind Farm.
How can I get to the Natural Park of La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons using public transport?
The Natural Park of La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons is accessible by public transport, particularly from Torrevieja. There are bus routes that connect Torrevieja to the vicinity of the park, often stopping near the Visitor's Center (Centro de Interpretación). It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and timings.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, designated parking areas are available, especially near the main entrances to the Natural Park of La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons and at popular trailheads. The Visitor's Center typically has parking facilities, and you'll find smaller parking spots at various access points throughout the park.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in La Mata?
La Mata is an excellent destination for hiking year-round, but the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months offer the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the natural park is vibrant with flora and fauna. Even in winter, the climate is generally mild, making it suitable for hiking, while summer can be quite hot, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended.
What do other hikers say about the trails in La Mata?
The hiking routes in La Mata are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from 6 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique landscapes, the tranquility of the lagoons, and the opportunities for birdwatching. Many appreciate the well-marked and accessible paths that cater to various ability levels.
Are there any specific viewpoints or bird observatories along the trails?
Yes, throughout the Natural Park of La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons, you'll find several viewpoints and bird observatories. These are strategically placed to provide excellent opportunities to observe the diverse aquatic birdlife, including flamingos, and to take in the panoramic views of the lagoons and surrounding Mediterranean landscapes.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
While many trails are easy to moderate, La Mata does offer options for longer hikes. For instance, a longer version of the Forcall loop from El Forcall covers 13.3 km and typically takes over 4 hours to complete, leading through rural landscapes with moderate elevation gain. The region has a total of 16 tours, with 2 rated as difficult, providing more challenging options for experienced hikers.
Most popular attractions around La Mata
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
