Birding Retreats

Led by local expert David Warrington our birding retreat offers four days of Birding in a diverse range of habitats. A professional bird watching guide, David was born in Sheffield, England and began his fascination with birds as a child in the Peak District National Park. He moved to Spain in 2006 and was amazed by the natural diversity of the Valencia region, a huge influence in his decision to establish ´Valencia Birding´ in 2011.

Arriving ar El Cipreret on Wednesday afternoon or evening you are free to spend time settling in and enjoying the Serra de Mariola Natural Park setting.

Day 1 – After a delicious breakfast we´ll begin the birding experience with a full day on the high steppe that lies to the south west of our region. After around an hour´s drive, we´ll find ourselves amongst vast rolling plains which provide territory for the mighty Great Bustard, Europe´s heaviest flying bird. The area´s lagoons will also give us the chance to see aquatic birds.  The surrounding farmland and rolling hills are very good for raptors.

Day 2 – Today, another full day trip, we´ll have a complete change of habitat, and visit the coastal wetlands of Alicante. This region is renowned for the successful conservation projects to protect endangered species such as White Headed Duck, Marbled Teal and Red Knobbed Coot. Other species could include Collard Pratincole, Purple Swamphen and much more.

Day 3 – A slightly shorter day with an earlier finish to allow you to enjoy el Cipreret and the surroundings. We´ll spend the day exploring the local area, taking in the forest, rolling hills and farmland. This region holds breeding pairs of raptors including Short Toed Eagle (who regularly soar above the el Cipreret pool around 5pm each afternoon) and Golden Eagle.  Forest birds include Crested Tit, Firecrest and Crossbill, and the farmland provides breeding ground for the spectacular Bee Eater.

Day 4 – To complete the trip and take advantage of the great habitat diversity of the immediate area we´ll spend time in the morning in the mountains of the region. Dramatic rocky gorges and soaring cliffs provide home to Griffon Vultures, Peregrine Falcon, Black Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush and more specialist mountain birds. We will arrive back at El Cipreret in time to enjoy the hospitality of Mariola Secreta over a leisurely home cooked lunch.

We recommend an evening flight home or transfer to your next destination so that you can make the most of your four day retreat. Please ask if you´d like to extend your retreat by an extra night.

Throughout your stay you will enjoy full board accommodation and use of the fabulous facilities of Mariola Secreta. El Cipreret, our fully restored farmhouse, is set right in the heart of the Serra de Mariola Natural Park, Valencia.

Birding Retreats open for booking...

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