Spain's Pink Lake, Torrevieja: How To Get There

Aside from it being such a surreal and beautiful sight, the other thing that makes the Pink Lake Torrevieja so special is that it is the only one in the whole of Europe, never mind Spain.

The only other similar ones are in Bolivia, Senegal, Mexico and Australia.

Pink Lake Torrevieja

There are actually four ways in which you can visit Spain’s pink lake.

There’s two guided tours, the Salinas de Torrevieja Tourist Train that goes right through the middle of it and then a walking one that is available during peak season on weekends only.

You can also see the pink lake in Spain from a distance from the viewing platforms at Parque Natural de Las Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja.

Or (which is what most people are after) independently at various unofficial access points along the actual shore of Torrevieja pink lake.

In this blog post we’re going to give you all the lowdown on all of those various options for exploring Torrevieja pink lake. Including how to get there, costs, where to park, the best time to visit and most importantly where to spot flamingos.

Jump to:

Pink Lake Torrevieja
Where Are The Torrevieja Salt Lakes?
How To Get To The Pink Lake of Torrevieja
Where Is The Entrance To The Pink Lake, Spain?
Best Time To Visit Torrevieja Pink Lake?
Why Is Spain’s Salt Lake Pink?
Where Are The Flamingos?
Why Can’t You Swim In Spain’s Pink Lake?
What To Bring When Visiting?
Other Things To Do In Torrevieja
Where To Stay In Torrevieja?
Torrevieja Pink Lake FAQ’s

Where Are The Torrevieja Salt Lakes?

Spain’s salt lakes are situated near Torrevieja on the South East coast of Costa Blanca. They are part of the 3700 hectare Natural Park of Torrevieja (Parque Natural de Torrevieja).

Laguna Salada de Torrevieja (Laguna Rosa) is the pink one and is the largest, measuring around 1400 hectares. Then there’s Laguna Salada de Mata which is green and is half the size with an area of about 700 hectares.

They transformed Torrevieja from a small fishing village and are now the centre of the country’s salt industry. Having been commercially farmed for over 200 years, Torrevieja salt is exported all around the world. These days the annual production exceeds one million tonnes.

And whatsmore, is that it is a renewable resource. This is due to the lakes being connected to the Mediterranean sea by a network of canals and thus the water being constantly replenished.

How To Get To The Pink Lake of Torrevieja

Option 1: Salinas de Torrevieja Tourist Train

The easiest way of visiting the salt lakes is to hop on the Torrevieja tourist train. It takes you from the city centre to the salt lakes on a guided tour and you should allow an hour.

You’ll have some time to get off and wander around the huge mountains of salt, as well as visit the shop to buy some salt if you wish.

Throughout July and August the Torrevieja salt train runs every day at the following times: 10am, 11:30am, 1pm, 5pm, 5:45pm and 6:30pm.

The price is €9.50 per adult and €8.50 for over 65’s and children. Children under 2 years are free. Pets are strictly not allowed.

It leaves from Paseo de la Libertad street, near the old casino of Torrevieja with a minimum of six people. Over peak season it gets very busy and it is advisable to book tickets in advance.

Please note the Torrevieja salt lake train goes through the entrance of the salt factory which is also where the cargo trucks enter. It is therefore totally prohibited to enter here without a guide.

Option 2: Torrevieja Salt Lake Walking Tour

If you prefer a more in depth guided tour on foot these run on weekends through peak season.

You can also arrange to use your own bike by prior reservation with a minimum of 5 people. Use of a helmet is mandatory.

Spanish, English, Portuguese and French speaking guides are available. And they will take you around the entire industrial area. Including the old stacker, old chemical ponds, salt mountains, abandoned factories, pink lagoon and the area where craft boats set up.

The walking tour takes around 2 hours (or 90 minutes by bike). And the price is €12 per adult and €9 for over 65’s and children. Children under 5 are not permitted for safety reasons.

The meeting point is on Avenida Faleria next to the Era de la Sal bus stop in Torrevieja centre.

For availability and reservations you can email visitatorrevieja@salins.com or contact by telephone on +34 966 901 350 or +34 680 552 291 on weekdays or +34 626 594 109 on weekends. There is also a contact form on their website.

Option 3: Torrevieja Natural Park

Laguna Rosa is part of the larger Parque Natural de las Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja and actually has two lakes. From the official entrance off the N-332 roundabout you’ll find walkways and information boards guiding you around the various areas with bird hides and viewpoints.

You can see it in the distance, but you can’t actually access the shores of Laguna Torrevieja (the pink lake) on the official paths from this approach. It is however still really picturesque and is usually teaming with wildlife, including red squirrels.

The visitors centre has audio guides in Spanish, Valencian, English and German. And entrance is completely free.

It’s open Monday - Friday 9:30am - 2pm and Saturday - Sunday and holidays 9am - 1pm. It’s closed December 24th, 25th and 31st and January 1st and 6th.

How to get to Torrevieja Natural Park? The Costa Azul bus that passes through Torrevieja and connects Alicante with Cartagena has a bus stop 200m from the entrance.

There is also parking if you are travelling by car.

Option 4: How To Visit Spain’s Pink Lakes Unguided

The final option for how to get to the pink lake in Spain is to take a bus or bike there. Or if you’re just passing by as we were, it’s dead easy to visit them by car.

The benefit of this is that you can spend as long as you want there. The downside is you won’t have a guide to learn any information from.

And once again you cannot go through the salt factory entrance on Calle los Portalicos without a guide so you’ll have to head to a different part of the lake.

By Bus | From Torrevieja Bus Station on Calle del Mar jump on the Line B bus towards Torretas and get off on Calle Urano in the Torretas III neighbourhood.

By Bike | Head towards Calle Sol in the Torretas III neighbourhood and follow the road along until you see a path leading down through an opening in the fence and down to the lake.

By Car | There are free parking places all along Calle Sol and Calle Venus in the Torretas III neighbourhood. We parked in an area at the intersection of Calle Venus and Calle Luna.

There are a few reviews about vehicles being broken into while parked here but didn't have any problems. We did however notice why people could be concerned. It’s a run down residential part of the city so definitely be vigilant about where exactly you park and who’s around.

A little bit further out of Torrevieja, there’s also viewing points and parking options along Calle Múnera.

Where Is The Entrance To The Pink Lake, Spain?

The main route that goes into the Torrevieja pink lake is for salt cargo trucks. And for this reason can only be accessed with a pre-arranged guide or via the Torrevieja salt train. There is a gatehouse for safety and security.

Around the perimeter of Laguna Rosa though there’s just an ugly metal fence with breaks in it every so often to allow access. The main access points are along Calle Sol or Calle Múnera. You’ll know where they are as you’ll be able to see trodden paths through the grass.

So if you are visiting Torrevieja salt lakes independently that’s what you will need to do.

Best Time To Visit Torrevieja Pink Lake?

The majority of the time, the Laguna Rosa Spain is described as a deep salmon or bubble gum-like colour. But it can also sometimes have an unappealing brownish tone depending on how much light there is. This is because the bacteria and algae are more active in sunlight.

Hence the best time to visit the Torrevieja Pink Lake is on a bright sunny day. Luckily that is something this part of Spain is not short of. Especially during the summer months of June to September when the sun shines for up to 10 hours per day.

If it’s really sunny you may even see the Torrevieja Pink Salt Lake give off a deeper colour of magenta, fuschia or even purple.

Why Is Spain’s Salt Lake Pink?

The reason that Laguna Rosa Spain is pink is because the water contains an unusual type of microorganism called halobacteria. And an uncommon type of algae called Dunaliella salina. Both thrive in rich saline environments and are naturally pink in colour.

Tiny creatures called saltwater brine shrimp (Artemia salina Crustaceans) then take on the pink colour by feeding on the algae and bacteria. Which in turn becomes a food source for flamingos and is what is responsible for the pinkish colour of their feathers.

If you’ve ever seen a baby flamingo you’ll know that they are not pink. They are in fact a greyish colour. The pink colouration develops later in life through their specialised diet.

Where Are The Flamingos?

In theory Torrevieja salt lakes flamingos should be knocking about from February to July. However you are most likely to spot them during their breeding season from March to May.

Rather excitingly they have just started actually breeding again here. For the first known time in 37 years! The combination of lack of environmental noise during the pandemic plus an increase in wet weather which caused an explosion in brine shrimp produced 600 babies.

Disappointingly we visited in June and didn’t see any on the actual Torrevieja pink lake itself.

But we did see plenty of them on the salt farms along the Costa Blanca just south of Santa Pola. The N-332 runs right through them so definitely keep an eye out for them there if you are travelling around the area by car.

Why Can’t You Swim In Spain’s Pink Lake?

On top of there being active salt farming on parts of the pink lake of Torrevieja, there is also a fragile ecosystem. The bacteria and algae that are responsible for the colour of the water are extremely rare and are easily affected by chemicals and foreign substances.

Therefore in order to maintain the delicate balance of the Torrevieja salt lakes it is strictly forbidden to swim in them. By doing so you risk introducing substances such as soaps and suncreams. Not to mention a whopping fine of up to €6000 if caught doing so.

You did however used to be able to swim in them so if you do see photos of people doing so now they are either from a few years ago or that they were doing so illegally.

What To Bring When Visiting?

Items to bring with you when visiting the pink lake in Spain are plenty of fresh water, mosquito repellent, sun hat, sunglasses and of course a camera.

Other Things To Do In Torrevieja

Torrevieja is mostly a resort town for package holidays and beach relaxation. However, there are also a few other things to do if you’re up for some exploring and adventure.

Sea and Salt Museum

Otherwise known as Museo del Mar y de la Sal in Spanish, if you want to learn more about the salt industry in Torrevieja this place will be right up your street.

It’s only small and unfortunately the information is only in Spanish, so if you can’t read it you will need Google translate. But it’s free to enter.

Opening times are rather sporadic. However it is just a couple of blocks from the main square, Plaza de la Constitución Torrevieja, though so worth just stopping by if you are passing.

Natural Park e-bike Tour

Explore Torrevieja with comfort and ease on electric bikes. An English speaking guide will show you around the city sights and take you to admire the pink lake of Torrevieja. As part of the tour you’ll also enjoy a short walk through the natural park and La Mata beaches.

It takes around 2.5 hours in total and kids are allowed but must be over 155cm. You can find further details here.

Submarine S-61 Floating Museum

This floating museum is one of the more unique things to do in Torrevieja. The preserved submarines once belonging to the Spanish military but now docked are open to the public.

It is located at the quay in the city’s port and is open from Wednesday to Sunday between 5pm - 8pm over peak season. Entrance is just a few euros and comes with an audio guide.

Mercado Central ‘La Plasa’

The central Market of Torrevieja or simply the fish market as it is also known is definitely worth popping into if you are looking for things to do in Torrevieja. It has a very lively and local feel with over 40 colourful stalls selling a range of fresh produce, not just seafood.

Parasailing

Drink in the gorgeous Torrevieja coastline from 200m above whilst you parasail through the sky. This exhilarating Torrevieja activity can be done alone or with a group of up to five friends.

There’s English speaking instructors and children over 5 can even do it. To find out more about this unforgettable thrill click here.

Aquopolis Water Park

Adrenaline junkies will enjoy free falling down a 10m speed slide and gripping on tight to a donut as they whizz around the 16m boomerang slide. There’s an aquagym and step class if you feel like really working up a sweat. Or a relaxing hot tub for a more chilled affair.

Plus lots of rides for kids under 10 in the Kids Zone Mini Park. Either way a day out at Aquopolis Water Park is the perfect way to cool down in the Spanish heat. Children under 90cm are free and you can buy tickets here.

Catamaran Cruise

If you are looking for something relaxing but fun to do whilst in Torrevieja, this comes top of the list. You can choose from morning, afternoon or evening cruises with a sunset.

When the boat drops anchor you can either sunbathe on deck or take a plunge into the sea. The boats have snorkelling equipment and SUP boards onboard to use for free.

There’s also freshwater showers and private changing areas onboard. And the experience is suitable for any age. Click here to check price and availability.

Flyboard Experience

If you love exciting watersports, why not learn to fly while in Torrevieja with a flyboard session?

A professional guide will help you get started and up to 6 people can take part so it’s perfect for a group of friends or family outing with children over 16. All necessary equipment is included and you can swim in the sea whilst waiting your turn. Find more details here.

SUP Boarding

Cruise up and down Los Locos Beach at your own pace with a stand up paddleboard. You don’t need to have any prior experience as the rental includes a beginners lesson. Rash guards and wetsuits are also available should you need them.

Over 10 years are allowed so it’s great for older kids too. Find out more here.

Jet Ski Tour

Discover some of Torrevieja’s more secluded beaches and coves on an exhilarating jet ski experience. You will always have a qualified instructor with you, but will have some free time to be able to drive the jet ski yourself.

You can choose between 30 or 60 minute rides and find more information here.

Surfing Lesson

Looking for an active day on the beach and always fancied giving surfing a go? Well La Mata beach in Torrevieja is the perfect place to take a surf lesson.

Over the 1.5 hours you’ll learn the basics and are guaranteed to catch your first wave. The lessons are great for adults and kids over 10 years alike. Find more details here.

Where To Stay In Torrevieja?

One Bed Apartment | CostaAzul Loft

This modern apartment with a seaview balcony is just 400m from the beach and has free private parking. The spacious living area is open plan with a fully equipped kitchen and dishwasher.

Click here for photos, reviews, prices and availability.

Two Bed Apartment | La Paz Molo

This bright and roomy apartment with a seaview terrace is situated just 500m from the beach. The kitchen has a dishwasher and the living area is comfortably furnished with air conditioning.

Click here for photos, reviews, prices and availability.

Three Bed Apartment | Residencial Aqua Beach

Just 500m from the beach, this large modern apartment has two bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. There’s a spacious balcony plus a gorgeous rooftop pool and secure parking.

Click here for photos, reviews, prices and availability.

Torrevieja Pink Lake FAQ’s

What cities are near Torrevieja Pink Lake?

Along the coast, the nearest big cities to Torrevieja are Alicante to the north and Cartagena to the south. Inland there is also Murcia and the smaller city of Elche.

Is it free to see the pink lake in Spain?

Unless you go on a guided tour, yes it is free to see the pink lake in Spain.

There’s lots of access points along Calle Múnera and Calle Sol where you can just walk right up to the water edge. You’ll know where the breaks in the fence are as you’ll be able to see trodden paths through the grass.

What Is The Address of Spain’s Pink Lake?

Spain’s pink lake is located within the Las Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park. But if you want to go right up to the shore your best access points are along Calle Sol, Torrevieja. The official walkways from the entrance of the natural park do not go right over to it.

Are there toilets at the pink salt lake in Spain?

The nearest toilets to Torrevieja pink salt lake at the visitors centre which is at the official entrance of the Natural Park just off the N-332 highway. You cannot access the shores of the Pink Lake from here however.

Is there parking at Torrevieja Pink Lake?

There are free parking places for Torrevieja pink lake all along Calle Sol and Calle Venus in the Torretas III neighbourhood. Cars can also park along the Calle de las Lavanderas. It’s a little bit further out of Torrevieja, there’s also parking options along Calle Múnera.

Can you float in Spain’s pink salt lake?

In theory, yes. The density of Spain’s pink salt lake is higher than the mass of a standard human. However! It is still strictly forbidden to enter the water of Laguna Rosa both because there is active salt farming and because of the fragile ecosystem. You can get a €6000 fine.