La Manguilla

La Manguilla is a small yet ecologically valuable protected natural site in the municipality of la Pobla de Vallbona, in the province of Valencia, Spain. Covering 10.8 hectares, it lies in the northeastern part of the municipal territory, roughly 7 kilometers from the town center, bordering the neighboring municipalities of Bétera and Serra. Its proximity to the Sierra Calderona mountain range shapes the character of the landscape, influencing both the terrain and the plant and animal life found here.

Why was this site protected?

La Manguilla was declared a Municipal Natural Site (Paraje Natural Municipal) through Decree 35/2011, issued on April 1st by the Consell, the regional government of the Valencian Community. It holds the distinction of being the first protected natural area in the history of la Pobla de Vallbona, which gives it particular local significance. The decision to protect the site was based on its ecological and botanical value, as well as its potential for sustainable public use.

What you can see — flora and fauna

The landscape of La Manguilla is defined largely by dense stands of Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis), a Mediterranean tree well adapted to the region's dry, sunny climate. The understory is dominated by typical Mediterranean scrubland species, including kermes oak (Quercus coccifera) and mastic trees. Together, this vegetation forms a dense, aromatic ecosystem characteristic of Spain's eastern coast.

Among the fauna, reptiles stand out in particular. Visitors to La Manguilla may come across several species of lizard, including the common wall lizard and its rosy-colored variant, the Iberian wall lizard, and the largest of them all, the ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus). The presence of such a varied reptile population points to well-preserved rocky habitats and sun-exposed slopes.

Agricultural and pastoral heritage

Beyond its natural value, La Manguilla also preserves traces of past human activity. Numerous dry stone walls (piedra seca) remain scattered across the site — remnants of old terraced plots once used for hillside farming. Nearby stand small traditional stone structures known as "catxerulos," which were used by farmers and shepherds as shelter from harsh weather and as storage for their tools. These features are a valuable testament to the region's rural and pastoral culture from before industrialization.

What can you do at La Manguilla?

The site has strong recreational and educational potential. It includes a leisure area adapted for people with disabilities, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. There are also plans to establish a nature classroom (aula de naturaleza) aimed at environmental education for schoolchildren and visiting groups. The area is well suited to walking, nature observation, and light outdoor activities, including trails that wind through pine groves and past the old agricultural terraces.

Frequently asked questions

How large is La Manguilla? The natural site covers an area of 10.8 hectares.

When was La Manguilla protected? It was declared a Municipal Natural Site through Decree 35/2011 of April 1st — the first such protected area in the municipality's history.

What animals can be found here? Mainly reptiles, including the common wall lizard, the Iberian wall lizard, and the ocellated lizard.

Is the site accessible for people with disabilities? Yes, it includes a recreational area adapted for visitors with limited mobility.

How far is La Manguilla from the center of la Pobla de Vallbona? About 7 kilometers, in the northeastern part of the municipality, near the borders of Bétera and Serra.