Top 4 Lakes around Santeru/San Vero Milis

The region is home to two wetlands of international importance: Stagno di Sale Porcus and Stagno di Pauli Maiori. Both are recognized under the Ramsar Convention for their ecological significance and rich biodiversity, especially for aquatic birds.

The Stagno di Sale 'e Porcus Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching. It's a crucial nesting and breeding ground for numerous aquatic birds, including over 3,000 pink flamingos, shelducks, and European cranes. Stagno di Pauli Maiori also serves as a significant nesting and wintering ground for various bird species.

Yes, several spots are great for families. The Cabras Lagoon is noted for its biodiversity and is considered family-friendly. Additionally, the Mari Ermi Salt Lake offers a unique landscape that families can explore.

The landscape around Stagno di Sale Porcus transforms seasonally. In winter, the area is lush with water, ideal for observing flamingos and other aquatic birds. In summer, the pond often dries out, revealing vibrant salt deposits, which offers a visually striking experience. For birdwatching, winter and spring (migration periods) are generally best.

Yes, you can enjoy walks along the edges of the ponds. For instance, the walk around the Stagno di Sale 'e Porcus Nature Reserve offers a wonderful, varied landscape. It's best to go in the morning or evening due to lack of shade. When observing wildlife, it's advised to admire the pond from a distance and avoid walking on the 'slime' to protect the ecosystem.

Near the Cabras Lagoon, you can find the 'Caressing the Pond' trail, which is a beautiful, flat path running alongside the pond. There's also a dedicated View of Stagno di Cabras highlight, which is accessible by car.

Beyond walking and birdwatching, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as 'The beaches of Sa Mesa Longa and Mandriola — Round trip', or cycling routes like 'Beautiful Bay – View of the Coastal Cliffs loop from Mandriola'. Explore more options in the hiking guide and traffic-free bike rides guide for Santeru/San Vero Milis.

The Mari Ermi Salt Lake is a small, beautiful salt lake located opposite the sea. Visitors often hike to it from the beach, and with luck, you can spot flamingos here, adding to its unique charm.

The wetlands boast rich and diverse vegetation. Stagno di Pauli Maiori, for example, features typical wetland vegetation including various types of freshwater and brackish water macrophytes, halophytes, and extensive reed beds. The endemic plant Vinca sardoa can also be found at its edges.

Yes, Stagno di Pauli Maiori is publicly owned by the Sardinia Region, which permits professional fishing. Various species, including mullet, sea bream, sea bass, eels, clams, and crabs, are caught here.

Stagno di Sale Porcus is a temporary saltwater pond that dramatically changes with the seasons. Its depth varies, often drying out completely in summer to leave a thick crust of mineral salts. It relies solely on rainwater and is known for its impermeable clay bottom, making it a unique and protected ecosystem.