Villaviciosa Estuary Partial Nature Reserve · Tazones (EN)

The Villaviciosa estuary is one of the best preserved and most environmentally valuable estuaries of the Cantabrian coast. At its mouth is the Rodiles Beach, one of the largest sandy beaches in Asturias. With approximately 8,000 m. long and a width ranging between 1,000 and 200 m. this space has been configured as a natural environment consisting of beaches, dunes, estuary and cliffs, which inhabit waterfowl, marine invertebrates, as well as different types of vegetation characteristic of this habitat. The great faunistic interest, especially ornithological, of the Villaviciosa estuary stands out, since it is located in an intermediate situation between the migratory routes. Since 1995 this space is a "Partial Natural Reserve" and is included in the list of Wetlands of International Importance (RAMSAR). It has an Interpretation Center that houses the exhibition entitled "Life between two waters", which is a virtual walk through this protected area, from its innermost area to its mouth, and includes information on its natural values and its protection regulations. Outside there is an elevated observatory from which magnificent views of the birds and their environment can be obtained.