Lorraine Williamson
The town of Almonte, located in Huelva province, is launching a wide-ranging development plan aimed at improving access to the Doñana National Park and enhancing the Matalascañas area.
A central feature of the plan is the construction of a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the park. Located on the northern edge of Matalascañas, the site will offer a new perspective of Doñana, a protected area previously off-limits to visitors from that direction.
The initiative is part of Spain’s wider Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, with a total budget of €2.4 million. Almonte City Council will fund 15% of the cost.
Speaking during a presentation in Huelva, Mayor Francisco Bella detailed the strategy, which also includes the restoration of historic buildings, improved infrastructure, and sustainability projects across the region.
Nature and tourism upgrades underway
In addition to the new viewpoint, a cycle and pedestrian path will be developed to support eco-tourism. The restoration of Hacienda Santa María and the expansion of green areas in Matalascañas are also planned.
There are further proposals for a cultural centre and business incubator, alongside energy-efficient upgrades to municipal buildings.
Tourism officials are also exploring ways to increase accessibility to El Acebuche, a key visitor point in Doñana, as part of broader efforts to attract sustainable tourism.
Facilities for campers and sport enthusiasts
To support tourism, a motorhome area will be created between Almonte and El Rocío. Meanwhile, the popular motocross circuit is being renovated to maintain its appeal to European athletes.
Other improvements include additional sports infrastructure to diversify leisure opportunities in the area.
Coastal repairs and long-term erosion solutions
Matalascañas’ seafront promenade, damaged during recent storms, will undergo repairs costing €800,000. Mayor Bella highlighted the need for permanent solutions to ongoing erosion, criticising what he described as a lack of consistent support from higher levels of government.
New parking scheme aims to ease summer pressure
To improve traffic flow during peak tourist season, Almonte will introduce a parking management system called Zona Ora. Although not in place for summer 2025, it is expected to launch the following year.
The paid parking scheme will encourage rotation and reduce congestion in key areas of Matalascañas.
Blue flag status impacted by treatment plant issue
Matalascañas currently lacks a blue flag due to the wastewater treatment plant not meeting official discharge requirements. Although the water meets high safety standards, the plant does not use a biological system.
A new treatment facility is being proposed between Matalascañas and El Rocío to address the issue. Mayor Bella emphasised that the current plant functions well, but the lack of an appropriate permit remains a barrier to receiving blue flag recognition.