From boarding historic ships and entering some spectacular caves to strolling through a Martian-like landscape, the province of Huelva has a multitude of enjoyable activities to do with kids of all ages.
All you need is an itinerary which balances entertainment with learning, ensuring all the family enjoys themselves in these unique places, many of which are little known in this southern province of Spain.
Here are the best plans for adults and children in the province of Huelva. Read on to find out more.
Go on board La Pinta at the Wharf of the Caravels in La Rábida
The Wharf of the Caravels is an unmissable location where you will have a great time with the kids. This reproduction of a 15th century port is located by the seaside promenade beneath the La Rábida monastery, with views towards Huelva. In the port you’ll find replicas of the three ships commanded by Christopher Columbus; La Pinta, La Niña and La Santa María, which he sailed from Palos de la Frontera on his voyages of discovery to the New World.
Children are able to board these exquisite vessels and can sail away with their imagination, believing that they are heading towards the Americas.
The Wharf of the Caravels is open from Tuesday to Sunday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. in the summer, and from 9.30 a.m. – 7.30 p.m. the rest of the year.
Bird watching at Coto de Doñana
When visiting the province of Huelva, you should definitely make time to visit the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Doñana National Park, where you’ll find plenty of activities to do with your kids.
Situated on the estuary of the Guadalquivir river, Doñana has three extensive habitats; dunes, scrub woodland and marshlands. This ecosystem is home to a great biodiversity in terms of both flora and fauna. Around 300,000 different avian species live in the park and each year 6 million migratory birds will come to rest, feed and breed.
With such a wide array of birds in the park, it’s no surprise that the park sparks the interest of many children in ornithology. The park also has a number of bird observatories such as the one at the Acebuche lagoon. Located 3 km from Matalascañas down the A-483, the observatory, which shares the name of the lagoon, is a place where children can marvel at the grace and beauty of the birds that live there.
Railway ride in the Riotinto Mining Park
Though impossible to reach Mars via train, in Huelva, you can ride the rails through a Martian like landscape. By taking a 19th century train through the incredible scenery of the Riotinto Mining Area, you’ll witness the coppery tones of the terrain which mimic that of the Red Planet.
The ride takes you on an unforgettable 22-km return journey that runs parallel with the strangely coloured river, all the while giving its passengers opportunity to learn about the area with its guided commentary. This ride is a definite hit for those who have children.
Tickets are available at The Riotinto Mining Museum or at the train station. There is no public transport available to get to the mine train, which is situated about 4 km from the Riotinto Mines. We recommend that you check the official timetables before coming.
Virginal natural beauty at Mazagón Βeach
Mazagón Beach is an enormous stretch of sand which extends from the town of Mazagón to the remains of an historical watchtower, Torre del Loro.
It’s easy to see why this practically virgin beach, with its beautiful landscape, tranquil waters and extensive length, has become one of the preferred locations along the Huelva coast for families that want to escape from the masses.
The Grotto of Marvels
Located in the most mountainous area of Huelva, in the mountain atop which stands the remains of the Aracena castle, you’ll find The Grotto of Marvels. This place is made up of a network of naturally formed caves and galleries and is a prime example of karst topography.
Visitors can walk a 1 km route to the bowels of the earth that will show them 12 chambers and 6 incredible subterranean lakes which are guaranteed to leave both adults and children awestruck and let their imaginations run wild. It’s no surprise that this incredible site of natural beauty was used as the setting for the film, ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’.
The grotto can be visited every day from 10 a.m. – 1.30 p.m. and 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Sierra de Aracena on horseback
For something a little different, Huelva also offers the opportunity for children, and adults, to enjoy a horse ride through the beautiful Sierra de Aracena.
In Finca la Suerte, off Cuesta Palero, you’ll come across the small mountain town of Galaroza. There, you’ll be able to book a horse ride for all the family that will let you witness and marvel this precious environment in a completely new way. No experience of horse riding is required and all the horses have marvellous temperaments.
Make sure that you have had plenty of rest the night before as the route takes around 2.5 hours in total, which can be tiring if you aren’t feeling up to it.
Zip-line between Spain and Portugal
If you are looking for something a little more thrilling, then whizzing along a zip line from one country to another should tick the boxes. In the town of Sanlúcar de Guadiana you’ll have the opportunity to ride the world’s first cross-border zip line. Límite Zero, the company that manages the attraction, has united Spain and Portugal with a 720 m zip line that hangs above the Guadiana River.
This exciting activity can be enjoyed by all who are 14 years’ of age and above. Riders can expect to reach up to 80 kph during the descent as they fly from Spain to Portugal. Once you have landed safely, you can take the ferry back to Spain. This return journey is included in the price.
