The Shifting Sands of One of Europe’s Last Great Wildernesses
Just a short drive from Costa Ballena, Dunas de Doñana unfolds like a landscape out of time. This protected area stretches from the coastal dunes of Rota, Costa Ballena and Chipiona to vast marshlands and ancient pine forests, forming one of Europe’s most important natural ecosystems.
Doñana is internationally recognised for its role in bird migration and birdwatching, but its wildlife goes far beyond the skies. Hidden among the scrubland and wetlands live iconic species such as the elusive Iberian lynx, the rare Spanish imperial eagle, and the Mediterranean chameleon, alongside the famous wild horses that roam the marshes.
Exploring Doñana from Costa Ballena
For visitors staying in Costa Ballena, Doñana offers an unforgettable day trip into one of Spain’s last great wildernesses. Guided tours take visitors deep into the park, where 4×4 vehicles navigate the dunes, forests, and wetlands, revealing the hidden corners of this vast natural sanctuary. For those who prefer a slower pace, boat tours along the Guadalquivir River offer a different perspective, following the water routes once used by explorers and merchants.
Whether you are a birdwatcher, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a break from the beach, Doñana provides a glimpse into an untamed world where nature still dictates the rhythm of life. Just a short journey from Costa Ballena, it is a destination that reminds us of the beauty and fragility of our planet’s most precious landscapes.
