Flora and Fauna of Peñíscola: Mediterranean Nature in its Essence

Surrounding Peñíscola are two natural environments of special interest: the Serra d’Irta and the Marjal de Peñíscola. Both areas offer rich and authentic biodiversity, perfect for those who want to connect with the landscape and local wildlife.

1. Serra d’Irta – Unspoilt Mediterranean nature

Declared a Natural Park and Marine Reserve in 2002, the Serra d’Irta covers around 7,743 hectares of land and 2,448 hectares of sea, embracing more than 12 km of practically untouched coastline.

Flora:

Dense coastal scrubland dominated by the European fan palm (Chamaerops humilis), the only palm tree native to Europe.
Extensive formations of Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis) accompanied by mastic (Pistacia lentiscus), kermes oak (Quercus coccifera) and blackthorn (Rhamnus lycioides).
Highly valuable botanical micro-reserves: Erodium sanguis-christi grows in Cala Argilaga, Limonium perplexum (endemic to the area) grows in Torre Badum, and Pancratium maritimum, or sea daffodil, grows in the Pebret dune.
Other species such as sea fennel (Crithmum maritimum) and various species of Limonium near the coast.

Fauna:

The great diversity of birds is noteworthy, especially in the scrubland: warblers (Sylvia spp.), birds of prey such as Bonelli’s eagle (Hieraaetus fasciatus), the common kestrel, the buzzard and the short-toed eagle.
Vulnerable species such as Audouin’s gull (Larus audouinii) and great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) are found in the coastal environment.
Common mammals in the Mediterranean area: red squirrel, wild boar, fox, genet and badger.
In addition, the area is home to reptiles, butterflies and bats native to the Mediterranean ecosystem.

2. Peñíscola Marsh – Refuge for endemic aquatic species and birds

This coastal wetland is home to a fragile and vital ecosystem:

Flora:

Halophilic vegetation with communities of Limonium cavallinesii, Phragmites australis, Juncus, Inula crithmoides, Salicornia, Sarcocornia fruticosa, among others.

Fauna:

Endemic freshwater fish species: the samaruc (Valencia hispanica) and the fartet (Aphanius iberus), protected by recovery programmes due to their high degree of threat.
Common birds: little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis), moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), various species of ducks, grey heron, purple heron, night heron, kingfisher, marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus), among others.

Why should you visit these places?

The Serra d’Irta is one of the last undeveloped coastal stretches on the Spanish Mediterranean, with landscapes of cliffs and untouched vegetation.
El Marjal is a sanctuary for unique aquatic species, with active conservation measures that make it even more meaningful for respectful visitors.

Enjoy and respect every corner of nature

From Hotel La Cabaña, you can organise routes or guided tours (by bike or on foot) to explore these unique landscapes. Take your time: the beauty and value of this authentic flora and fauna await discovery with care and respect.

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