If you visit the Serra d’Alberá, the northernmost part of the Pyrenees, one should Center for the reproduction of Albera turtles don’t miss it. In this center, the Mediterranean style “Testudo Hermanni Hermanni” reproduced and observed. Outside the small town in garriguella located, the center has been on the grounds of an old Romanesque church furnished. Even the forecourt of the building, surrounded by trees and fields, invites you to a picnic. Via the inner courtyard you reach the entrance and information center.
The Tour Through the species-appropriate enclosure of the turtles you walk on a wooden walkway. From this, the turtles are easy to observe without disturbing them in their serenity. It is advisable to use the center to visit in the morning. Then the activity of the turtles is greatest, and you can see numerous animals right away.
At the end of the tour there are other smaller enclosures. These show different others turtle species, including giant tortoises, sea turtles and species from Africa, Asia and Central America.
At the end of the tour you can use a approx. 20 minutes documentation about life and dangersto which the animals are exposed in the wild.
The The purpose of the center is to increase the population of turtles through reproductionto prevent extinction and the release of the animals. The entrance fees serve to preserve the center and support some studies on the biological and ecological aspects of the turtles.
A Informative excursion into the realm of the wildlife of Catalonia, which is also worthwhile because of the idyllic complex and surroundings and inspires children.
Albera turtle center at a glance
- what: Center de Reproducció de Tortugues de l’Albera (CRT Albera) in Garriguella, Old Empordà
- Task: Breeding the Mediterranean Tortoise (Testudo Hermanni Hermanni) to support game stocks and promote their protection
- Location: Outside the small town, on an area that the Diocese of Girona and the parish have made available
- visit: According to the Empordà à Úrisme for families and individual visitors free of charge. Change opening hours, please ask the center beforehand
- Region: Serra de l’Albera, the northernmost part of the Pyrenees. More on that in Hiking through the Serra de l’Albera
Frequently asked questions about the Turtle Center
What is happening in the Albera Turtle Center?
There, the Mediterranean tortoise is bred and observed to support the wild population and promote their protection and preservation.
Where is the center?
at Garriguella in the Comarca Alt Empordà, at the foot of the Serra de l’Albera.
Does the visit cost entry?
According to Empordà Turisme, the visit is free for families and individual visitors. Please check the times and conditions at the center beforehand.
Sources for the information in the box and in the questions: CRT Albera, llançà i tu, Empordà Turisme, Titó Llocs. Times and prices change, please check before visiting.
