Enjoy a peaceful escape from the city to Albufera Natural Park, a scenic coastal estuary just about six miles (10 km) from Valencia. Rice fields, pine forests, and dunes surround this freshwater lagoon, home to diverse wildlife and an area of economic importance. On this excursion, you'll enjoy the scenery offered by the park, which includes wild beaches and wetlands, plus cultural explorations of the area's history.Albufera Natural Park is easily accessible from Valencia, making it an ideal half-day trip from the city. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the park, including riding bikes through the rice fields, boating in the lagoon, hiking to the docks, trying your hand at fishing, and birdwatching. In 1994, the Ramsar Convention designated the park's lagoon as a wetland of importance, as it's home to over 300 species of birds, including the area's famed flamingoes. The park is also the perfect place to enjoy some of Valencia's best beaches, including Playa El Saler, L'Arbre de Gos, Devesa, and La Garrofera.After enjoying the incredible nature, dive into the area's history and culture. You can visit traditional fishing houses called "barracas" in the picturesque town of El Palmar. You'll also find some of the region's best paella restaurants in El Palmar, or opt for attending a paella-making workshop. End the excursion with a delicious and fresh seafood meal on the coast!