Sale 'e Porcus Pond
Riola Sardo · Oristano
A temporary salt lake on the Sinis peninsula: a sea of flamingos in winter, a white salt crust in high summer.
Location
Sale 'e Porcus is a temporary salt lake in the heart of the Sinis peninsula, between the municipalities of Riola Sardo and San Vero Milis in the province of Oristano. The shallow basin of about 330 hectares fills with rainwater in the colder months and dries out in summer into a gleaming white salt crust — a shift that transforms the landscape twice a year. Between autumn and spring it is one of Sardinia's most important stopovers for greater flamingos, often present in their thousands along with cranes, ducks and waders. An observation point on the northern shore takes in the whole basin without disturbing the birds. The area forms part of the Ramsar complex of the Gulf of Oristano.
Highlights
- Thousands of flamingos in the colder months
- Salt crust and mirage light in summer
- Observation point overlooking the whole basin
Tips
- In summer the lake can dry out completely and the birds move elsewhere.
- Access is on unpaved tracks: drive slowly and stay off the basin.
