Clot de Galvany

Clot de Galvany is a municipal natural area on the northern coast of Elx / Elche, in the province of Alicante, protected since 2005. Covering nearly 356 hectares, it sits in a coastal strip separated from the Mediterranean by a line of dunes, forming an enclosed inland basin with an unusually varied landscape for such a small area.

What kind of place is Clot de Galvany?

It is a former endorheic basin — a depression with no natural drainage to the sea — ringed by low hills. The name comes from a natural pond ("clot" meaning a hollow or dip in the local dialect) that forms part of a larger wetland catalogued as Balsares-Clot de Galvany. This position lets the site pack several distinct environments into a very short walking distance.

What habitats does the park contain?

Within its boundaries visitors find several clearly different zones: seasonal salt-water pools (charcas), low hills and rises, a saladar (the salt-tolerant coastal terrain typical of the Alicante coast), a dune belt, a narrow stretch of beach with its adjoining seabed, and remnants of old cultivation terraces that hint at the land's past agricultural use. Fitting this mosaic of habitats into one relatively small protected area is unusual for this part of the coast.

What wildlife lives in Clot de Galvany?

The wetland's ponds attract a range of waterbirds, including species considered endangered. Among them are the Eurasian wigeon, the red-crested pochard and the marbled duck, three duck species regarded as scarce at a regional level. The area is also visited by grey herons and storks, which use the marshy ground and saladar as feeding grounds. This variety of birdlife has made the site popular with birdwatchers.

Who manages the area and how can it be visited?

The park is managed by the Ayuntamiento de Elche (Elche city council) together with the municipal water company Aigües d'Elx. School groups can visit on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, always with prior booking. For individuals and small groups — up to ten people — free guided walks run every Sunday and public holiday, with no advance sign-up required.

Why visit Clot de Galvany?

In a single short walk, visitors can move from salt-water pools and saladar, across gently rolling hills, to dunes and the coastline itself, spotting waterbirds rarely seen elsewhere on the Costa Blanca along the way. It suits travellers looking for nature close to the city without a long trip out — a quieter alternative to the busier beaches around Elche and Santa Pola.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Clot de Galvany free? Yes, the area is open to the public, and the Sunday guided walks are also free of charge.

Do I need to book a visit in advance? School groups must register beforehand; the Sunday and holiday walks for small groups do not require booking.

What animals can be seen here? Mainly waterbirds, including rare duck species, along with herons and storks.

Is there a beach nearby? Yes, the park borders a narrow stretch of coastline separated from the rest of the area by a dune belt.