The Llobregat Delta is formed by an extensive plain that extends across 98 kilometres between the Garraf Massif and Montjuïc, and the narrow Sant Andreu de la Barca pass to the north. It was formed in recent times: it appeared in the Roman era and continued to extend until the 19th century. It has had different estuaries which, with the passing of time, have created the coastal lagoons. The Llobregat Delta is extremely important for bird life, as it is a strategic point on their migratory route from the western Mediterranean that unites Europe with Africa. There are more than 360 bird species in this delta, and this figure is one of the highest number of species to be found anywhere on the Iberian Peninsula. For these birds, the delta is a rest zone where they can moult and replace feathers, feed, nest and winter. It is considered an area of worldwide importance in scientific inventories as it receives species that are conservation priorities on our continent. This is why it was declared a 'ZEPA', a Spanish Special Protection Area, as it is a habitat to significant populations of birds of priority Community interest. The Natural Areas of the Llobregat RiverThese cover around 145 hectares and are situated to the right of the final stretch of the Llobregat River. They have a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Here you will encounter typical Delta landscapes: rushes, wetlands, pinewoods, reed beds, beaches and coastal basins, such as those at Cal Tet and Ca l'Arana. These areas form a miniature Delta in themselves. El Remolar - Filipinas and Viladecans BeachThis is one of the most typical natural areas, especially as it is easy to observe water birds such as grey herons, cormorants, ducks, lapwings and herons. In spring and summer wading birds fill the marshes. This area covers an area of 188 hectares and includes the Remolar Pond, the Filipinas Marshes, the stream at San Clemente, the Cal Francés pinewood and part of the Viladecans beach. The Can Camins Pinewood and the El Prat Beach. Extending over 48 hectares, these form a special coastal area that has immense biological value, something that is sadly scarce in the Catalan territory. The woods of stone pine hover above the ancient beach dunes and form a magnificent refuge for a broad diversity of flora and fauna. Several endangered species inhabit the beach as they need the vegetation of these sandbanks to survive. Las Balsas de Can DimoniThese are three small lakes located in the agricultural zone of Sant Boi de Llobregat. Extending over a total of 31 hectares, the area is of great interest thanks to the biodiversity that inhabits it, especially the herons and cattle egrets when roosting. La Murtra Pond and the La Maiola Pinewood The La Murtra Pond, between the municipalities of Gavà and Viladecans, has recuperated part of its typical vegetation, and along with the croplands, is the habitat of species such as the little bittern, the kingfisher and the little ringed plover. The La Maiola Pinewood, in Gavà, conserves pine specimens above coastal dunes and rushes between the dunes, and is the habitat of a variety of forest birds. The natural areas of the Llobregat Delta can be visited. There are several routes with hides and lookout towers to observe the rich fauna,vegetation and scenery. Activities are organised for visitors in spring, autumn and winter. During opening times you can wander freely round the entire area without charge. Zones of controlled access are closed on the 1st and 6th January, and the 25th and 26th December. For guided tours, organised groups and activities, please call 934 793 201