A freshwater paradise

There is nowhere better than the natural pools and fluvial beaches of Extremadura for a refreshing dip in the heart of nature. Spectacular landscapes, crystalline water and bathing areas perfect for a day at the beach.

Extremadura’s 1,500 of freshwater shoreline, something unique in western Europe, allows for water sports like canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, kite surfing, paddle surfing, diving and recreational fishing and other activities. There are also opportunities for canyoning, rafting and other adventure sports along the water bodies to the north of Cáceres.

Extremadura is a pioneer of inland destinations, receiving recognitions for the quality of the tourist offering of its bathing areas. In 2010, Orellana la Vieja beach, on the Orellana reservoir, received the first blue flag for an inland beach in Spain, and renewed its status last year. In 2018, it was also the first to obtain two other distinctions: a blue flag marina and “blue path”.

Most of the natural pools, gorges and fluvial beaches of Extremadura are located in the north of the region in places like the Jerte Valley, La Vera, Sierra de Gata, Las Hurdes, Plasencia, the Ambroz Valley, Campo Arañuelo and the Villuercas Ibores Jara geopark.

Further south, the province of Badajoz's offering is concentrated around the counties of La Serena, Vegas Altas del Guadiana and La Siberia, and in the municipalities of Mérida (Roman reservoir of Proserpina), La Codosera (River Gévora) and Cheles (Great Lake of Alqueva), among other locations.

Swimming, sports and sailing in the waters of Extremadura. On the rivers Tagus (International Tagus Natural Park), Alagón and Guadiana (Alqueva) there are a number of companies offering cruises through areas of great natural beauty and ecological value.

Extremadura: a freshwater paradise.