Top 4 Lakes around Tarifa

While Tarifa is known for its coast, you can find serene inland water bodies. The primary ones are the Charco Redondo Reservoir and the Almodóvar Reservoir, both located within the Los Alcornocales Natural Park. For a unique swimming experience, consider the Natural Pools of Bolonia, which are sea-formed pools near Bolonia Beach.

Yes, both the Charco Redondo and Almodóvar Reservoirs offer opportunities for nature walks and hiking. Around the Charco Redondo Reservoir, you can follow a circular path known as El Palancar. The area around the Almodóvar Reservoir is also ideal for taking a break and enjoying the scenery on foot. For more extensive options, explore the running trails in the wider Los Alcornocales Natural Park, which you can find in the Running Trails around Tarifa guide.

The Charco Redondo Reservoir and Almodóvar Reservoir are generally not recommended for swimming due to their flat nature and primary function as water regulators. They are better suited for nature appreciation and hiking. For calm water swimming, the Natural Pools of Bolonia offer a unique and safe alternative.

The Natural Pools of Bolonia are found east of Bolonia Beach and are formed by the sea in a rocky area that fills with water at high tide. They provide a relaxing and safe swimming experience, particularly favored by those seeking calm waters without waves. The water tends to be warmer than the open sea, making them a popular choice for families with children.

Yes, the Almodóvar Reservoir is considered family-friendly, offering a quiet natural setting for walks. The Natural Pools of Bolonia are also highly recommended for families with children due to their calm, warm waters, providing a safe swimming environment away from ocean waves.

Both the Charco Redondo Reservoir and the Almodóvar Reservoir are located within the Los Alcornocales Natural Park, offering picturesque and tranquil views surrounded by nature. You can find specific viewpoints, such as the Scenic viewpoint which offers sweeping views over the Strait of Gibraltar coastline, or the View of the lake's rear section in Los Alcornocales Natural Park.

The Charco Redondo Reservoir is located in the heart of the Los Alcornocales Natural Park. You can access it by following a circular path known as El Palancar, which starts right next to the A-381 motorway. There is also an old bridge that is now used for recreational purposes.

The region around Tarifa and the Los Alcornocales Natural Park offers various outdoor activities. You can explore traffic-free bike rides, including routes like 'Peña Tower loop from Torre de la Peña' from the Traffic-free bike rides around Tarifa guide. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes such as 'Gravel loop from Tarifa' available in the Gravel biking around Tarifa guide.

The best time to visit the lakes and reservoirs near Tarifa for hiking and nature walks is typically during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the cooler, potentially wetter conditions of winter.

When hiking around the Charco Redondo Reservoir, be aware that while the circular path 'El Palancar' is accessible, some older paths might be overgrown. It's recommended to follow the path with the arrow. The back part of the loop can be beautiful but also partly overgrown with thorny bushes, so consider taking a shortcut if you prefer a less challenging route.