The calm traquility of Spains largest lake, the Albufera near Valencia which serves as a Bird Protection Reserve for 9 months of the year. Unfortunately (for the birds), the remaining 3 months (Oct-Jan), it serves as a place of gathering for all those who enjoy hunting down the very same birds it is supposed to be protecting, with shotguns!! Signs are displayed for all the people who normally enjoy walking in this Natural Park, to avoid trespassing into this area to avoid getting themselves shot during these 3 months of barbarity. If these signs are designed to also warn where the birds might be safe outside the reach of these hunters is unknown, although I somehow doubt too many of these protected birds have had the opportunity to learn to read.
Albufera Natural Park |
The park is home to the largest lake in Spain and one of the most important wetland areas in the Iberian Peninsula. It is a place of great ecological interest with rare species of wading birds and a rich variety of wildlife. Its waters have been traditionally worked by fishermen and rice growers, supplying ingredients and inspiration for many of the regions most succulent dishes. To sample the best of the local gastronomy, go to the village of El Palmar, a setting for many of the works of Blasco Ibáñez. It is an excellent place to try classic dishes such as Paella, Arroz a Banda, or All i Pebre made with eels freshly caught from the lake. After the meal, there is nothing more relaxing than a boat trip on the Albufera lake contemplating the red and amber tones of the setting sun dancing across the water.
