Laguna Salada de Torrevieja is one of those places you have to see to believe. Right next to town, this large salt lake turns a vibrant pink in high summer thanks to halobacteria and micro algae thriving in its salty waters. It’s part of the protected nature park “Las Salinas de La Mata y Torrevieja,” a landscape of salt flats, colourful water and birdlife. You can walk around viewing paths, enjoy miradors (viewpoints) and take in sunsets that make the pink hues pop even more. The contrast between white salt mounds, pink water and deep blue sky is unforgettable. Swimming is forbidden and there are salt-production operations underway, so it’s more for the eyes and the senses than for a dip.

Best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the sun is low and the colours are stronger. Bring water, sun protection and a camera. It’s a striking natural wonder that shows a very different side of Costa Blanca.