Drive across the shifting sand dunes and wetlands of Doñana National Park on a private 4x4 safari with an experienced birdwatching guide. Stretching from Matalascañas to the mouth of the Guadalquivir River, traverse Europe’s longest virgin beach while keeping an eye out for short-toed eagles and peregrine falcons, alongside wild boar and fallow deer.

On the outskirts of the pilgrim-drawing village of El Rocío, the marshlands known as La Madre (‘the mother of marshes’) to locals act as a sanctuary for thousands of migrating birds. Spot herons and flamingos wading across the lagoon, and settle into the hide to wait for endangered white-headed ducks to appear. Learn about the fascinating freshwater ecosystem which thrives so close to the Atlantic from a conservation expert.

Guided by an eagle-eyed birder, explore UNESCO-protected Doñana’s varied landscape of wetlands, grasslands, rice fields, and pine forests on a full-day excursion. Follow sandy trails to a secluded birdwatching spot, stopping for an authentic Andalusian picnic in an area that’s home to Europe’s largest stork colony. Marbled and spoonbill ducks, egrets, and purple herons are also known to flit past.

Horse-drawn carriages are the most traditional method of transport in this venerable corner of Andalusia. Take in the rural charms of La Juncosilla on a two-hour carriage ride, rolling up to admire Palacio del Rey, an old royal residence tucked in the northern part of the Doñana National Park.