A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Doñana: A Natural Paradise in the Heart of Huelva, Spain

Doñana is one of the most important natural spaces in Europe, located in the province of Huelva, in the southwest of Spain. This national and natural park is a mosaic of ecosystems that host a unique biodiversity on the continent.

The National and Natural Park of Doñana

The National and Natural Park of Doñana is a protected area of more than 100,000 hectares that extends between the provinces of Huelva, Seville, and Cadiz. This park is famous for its great diversity of birds, being a place of passage, breeding, and wintering for thousands of them, both European and African. In addition, it is the last refuge for many endangered species, such as the Iberian lynx and the Iberian imperial eagle.

Guided Tours

For visitors who wish to explore Doñana, there are several companies that offer guided tours in all-terrain vehicles. These tours allow tourists to discover the different ecosystems of the park, from the marshes to the mobile dunes, and observe its rich fauna and flora up close.

El Rocío

Near Doñana is El Rocío, a village famous for its pilgrimage, one of the most important in Spain. Each year, during the feast of Pentecost, thousands of pilgrims from all over the country gather in El Rocío to pay homage to the Virgin of El Rocío in a procession that is a true explosion of color, music, and dance.

The Beaches of Doñana

Doñana also has some of the most pristine and least crowded beaches in Spain. These beaches, with fine golden sand, extend for more than 30 kilometers and are the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the park.

The Gastronomy of the Area

A visit to Doñana would not be complete without tasting the local cuisine. The fresh seafood and fish from the coast of Huelva, such as white prawns and clams, are a real delicacy. In addition, the area is famous for its wines, such as the Condado de Huelva and the Vinegar of the Condado de Huelva, both with designation of origin.

Gastronomic Products of Doñana

• White Shrimp from Huelva

  The white shrimp from Huelva are one of the most emblematic products of the Doñana area. They are recognized for their intense flavor and soft texture. They are caught off the coast of Huelva and can be enjoyed fresh in local restaurants, whether grilled, in garlic, or simply boiled.

• Wines from the County of Huelva

  The Doñana region is also known for its wines, especially those from the County of Huelva. This denomination of origin produces high-quality white wines, with varieties such as Zalema and Muscat. The wines from the County of Huelva are perfect for accompanying the area's seafood and fish.

• Strawberries from Huelva

  Huelva is the main producer of strawberries in Spain and these delicious fruits are another of the standout gastronomic products of Doñana. The strawberries from Huelva are sweet and juicy, and can be enjoyed fresh or in a variety of desserts and jams.

• Choco from Huelva

  The choco, a type of cuttlefish, is another highly prized sea product in Doñana. It is used in a variety of dishes, but one of the most famous is "fried choco", where it is fried until crispy and served with lemon. It is also the base for the popular dish of "rice with choco".

Sport Activities in Doñana, Huelva

Hiking

Doñana offers a wide variety of hiking routes that allow you to enjoy its rich biodiversity. You can explore the trails that cross the marshes, dunes and pine forests.

Cycling

The Doñana National Park has cycling routes that will allow you to discover its impressive landscapes in a different way. Remember that you should always follow the marked paths to protect the natural environment.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is one of the most traditional activities in Doñana. You will be able to travel the beaches and trails of the park on the back of these animals, always accompanied by expert guides.

Bird Watching

Doñana is a paradise for bird lovers. You will be able to observe a wide variety of species, both resident and migratory, in its different ecosystems.

Kayaking

The Guadalquivir River, which borders the Doñana National Park, is an ideal place to practice kayaking. You can enjoy the tranquility of its waters while observing the rich fauna and flora of the environment.

Places near Doñana

If you are in Doñana and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

El Rocío, in Andalusia, is famous for its annual pilgrimage, traditional architecture and spectacular marshes. Visitors can enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine, with local dishes such as venison stew and fresh seafood.

Matalascañas, in Andalusia, Spain, is an ideal tourist destination for beach and gastronomy lovers. Enjoy its extensive coast, bird watching in the Doñana Park and delight in its exquisite local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood.

Sanlúcar de Barrameda, in Cadiz, Spain, is famous for its stunning views of the Guadalquivir River, its rich history and its horse races on the beach. Its gastronomy stands out, with fresh seafood and Manzanilla wine, unique in the world.