Nature Reserves and World Heritage Sites in the Balearic Islands
The Balearic Islands are a natural paradise, full of protected areas and nature reserves that allow visitors to enjoy hundreds of outdoor activities.
Several of these nature reserves are underwater, such as the Cabrera archipelago in Mallorca; Punta de Sa Creu in Formentera; L’illa del aire in Menorca…
In total, the Balearic Islands have 11 marine reserves, which represent around 63,700 hectares of protected underwater space. Recreational activities are limited in these areas, with anchoring not permitted in some cases and requiring authorisation in others.
Apart from protected areas and nature reserves, the Balearic Islands currently have 4 areas listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. A title that values the great conservation, importance, and beauty of places, monuments, and traditions… all over the world.
These four areas are spread over the different islands.
In Mallorca, the Tramontana mountain range runs through the north-eastern part of the island.
In its more than 90 km of extension, you can find some of the most charming villages of the island, beaches with crystalline waters, viewpoints, hiking trails…
Menorca, also known as the Green Island, has held the title of Reversa de la Biosfera since 1993. A title that has become a brand identity to recognise the sustainability and preservation of natural spaces over the years.
The old town of Ibiza Town, Dalt Vila, which offers a breathtaking view from the sea, is also recognised as a World Heritage Site. Among its narrow, white-walled streets you can find restaurants, shops, bars…
The last designated World Heritage site is the Posidonia meadows of the Ses Salinas Natural Park of Ibiza and Formentera.
Posidonia oceanica is a plant endemic to the Mediterranean, vital for the conservation of beaches and the seabed. This plant is one of the longest-living on the planet and is responsible for the excellent quality of the Balearic Islands’ water and its crystalline blue colour. It also contributes to the oxygenation of the marine ecosystem and provides a home and food for hundreds of species of marine animals and plants.
Anchor carefully
The preservation of Posidonia oceanica is a task for everyone and when it comes to anchoring you must be careful not to do so over the Posidonia meadows.
Our recommendation is that before anchoring you should find out which areas are protected and where these meadows are located.
Balearic Marine Hub, offers all the necessary information about anchoring on more than 100 beaches and coves of the Balearic Islands, and it also includes a map of the areas where this marine plant, characteristic of the Mediterranean, can be found.