Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, established in 1992, is situated along the Costa Brava in the province of Girona, Catalonia, Spain. It encompasses the Montgrí Massif, a karstic mountain range overlooking the Mediterranean Sea; the Medes Islands, a small archipelago famed for its crystal-clear waters and protected marine life; and the Baix Ter wetlands, a low-lying delta characterized by rice fields, dunes, and marshes. The park’s geography is marked by diverse landscapes, from rocky cliffs and dry Mediterranean scrubland on the Montgrí, to the seagrass meadows and rich underwater habitats surrounding the Medes Islands, which are a hotspot for scuba diving and marine research due to their exceptional preservation. Historically, the area has traces of ancient human settlement including the Montgrí Castle, a 13th-century fortress set atop the massif offering panoramic views. Wildlife is abundant, including endangered species like the European pond turtle and various seabirds such as Audouin’s gull. Recreational opportunities in the park include hiking across moderate trails on the Montgrí massif, kayaking or sailing around the Medes Islands, birdwatching in the Baix Ter wetlands, and snorkeling in protected marine zones. The park attracts nature lovers, snorkelers, divers, and hikers with its combination of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, offering an immersive natural experience within easy reach of local towns and Mediterranean beaches.
