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Parc Natural del Montgrí, les Illes Medes i el Baix Ter adventures

Parc Natural del Montgrí, les Illes Medes i el Baix Ter Adventures

Parc Natural del Montgrí, les Illes Medes i el Baix Ter is a protected coastal and marine area in northeastern Spain known for its diverse ecosystems, combining Mediterranean scrubland, marine reserves, and river wetlands that offer a wide range of outdoor activities.

7,200 acres (approximately 2,900 hectares)
Acres Protected
Over 30 miles (50 kilometers)
Miles of Trails
Estimated 200,000+
Annual Visitors
2010
Year Established

About Parc Natural del Montgrí, les Illes Medes i el Baix Ter

Parc Natural del Montgrí, les Illes Medes i el Baix Ter
 

Located along the Costa Brava in Catalonia, Parc Natural del Montgrí, les Illes Medes i el Baix Ter protects a variety of ecosystems including the Montgrí Massif, the archipelago of the Illes Medes islands, and the wetlands surrounding the Baix Ter river mouth. This natural park covers terrestrial and marine environments, straddling rocky limestone landscapes with caves and cliffs, extensive Mediterranean forests, and some of the most ecologically important marine habitats in the western Mediterranean. Established in 2010, the park shelters diverse flora such as pine, holm oak, and Mediterranean scrub, while the marine reserve surrounding the Illes Medes is famous for underwater biodiversity, including Posidonia oceanica seagrass beds and numerous fish species. Historical landmarks include the Montgrí Castle, a 13th-century fortress atop the massif, and several small ancient fishing villages nearby offer cultural context to the area. Visitors frequently explore hiking trails through dry forests and along rugged shoreline cliffs, snorkel and dive in the protected waters of Illes Medes, kayak along scenic coastal bays, and observe migratory birds and marine wildlife in the Baix Ter wetlands. The park's blend of marine and terrestrial habitats makes it a dynamic destination for outdoor enthusiasts interested in nature study, water sports, and moderate hiking experiences. The park is accessible from nearby towns such as L'Escala and Torroella de Montgrí, where visitor centers provide information on routes, regulations, and local ecology.

Highlights

Highlight

Montgrí Castle – a medieval fortress atop the Montgrí Massif with panoramic views

Highlight

Illes Medes Marine Reserve – renowned for clear waters and rich underwater biodiversity

Highlight

Baix Ter Wetlands – important habitat for migratory birds and aquatic wildlife

Highlight

Coastal hiking routes offering views of cliffs, coves, and Mediterranean vegetation

Notable Natural Features

Montgrí Massif

A limestone mountain range featuring caves, steep cliffs, and panoramic landscapes dominating the park's inland area.

Illes Medes

A small archipelago and marine reserve offering some of the best underwater biodiversity in the Mediterranean Sea.

Baix Ter Wetlands

Wetland ecosystems located at the mouth of the Ter River that support diverse birdlife and aquatic plants.