Andalusia is not just coast and endless beaches. In the interior of our land, true seas of fresh water (or saltwater) are hidden where you can practice water sports surrounded by spectacular nature. If you’re looking for different plans to cool off this summer or simply want to discover unique spots to paddle at sunset, you’ve come to the right place.
After exploring several reservoirs or dams throughout the Andalusian geography with my paddleboard in tow, I have selected the 9 best navigable reservoirs where you can enjoy water activities without the hassle of crowded beaches. From the gigantic lake of Iznájar to the hidden spot of Negratín, get ready to discover a different Andalusia.
1. Iznájar Reservoir
📍Iznájar Córdoba
With more than 100 kilometers of shoreline, the Iznájar reservoir is the largest in Andalusia and one of the largest in Spain. Its waters bathe the lands of Córdoba, Málaga, and Granada, creating a unique landscape. It’s no coincidence that it’s called the “Lake of Andalusia”.
Available Activities
- Kayak: Guided tours and free rental from €20
- Paddle Surf: The star sport of the reservoir
- Big SUP: Giant boards for groups (splashes guaranteed!)
- Light Sailing: Beginner courses and routes
- Pedal Boats: Perfect for families
Best Area for Activities
The Valdearenas beach is the nautical epicenter, with 1.5 km of fully equipped inland beach. Here you’ll find the Lago de Andalucía Nautical Station and the Alúa center, with changing rooms, showers, and even a pet area.
When to Go
From April to October is the high season, although you can navigate all year round. The summer months are perfect for enjoying the water to the fullest, but in spring and autumn, you’ll have the reservoir almost to yourself.
2. Conde de Guadalhorce Reservoir
📍Álora Málaga
Imagine paddling with the vertical walls of the Gaitanes Gorge as a backdrop. The Conde de Guadalhorce reservoir, popularly known as El Chorro, offers one of the most spectacular landscapes for water sports in Andalusia.
Available Activities
- Kayak: 2-hour routes through areas only accessible from the water
- Paddle Surf: Calm waters ideal for beginners
- Combos: Kayak + paddle rental to try both
- Guided Tours: With landscape interpretation
Where to Start
Camping Parque Ardales is the perfect base. From here you have direct access to the dock and all services. If you visit Caminito del Rey, combine it with an afternoon kayak tour.
More Info About the Chorro Reservoir
The crystal-clear waters are slightly salty, great for the skin! And if you’re lucky, you might see trout swimming under your board.
3. Rules Reservoir
📍Órgiva Granada
With Sierra Nevada as a backdrop and the entrance to Las Alpujarras to the east, the Rules Reservoir has become the favorite spot for windsurfing enthusiasts in Granada. The constant wind during the summer makes it a perfect spot.
Available Activities
- Windsurf: Ideal conditions from June to September
- Paddle Surf: In the more protected areas
- Kayak: Peaceful routes to enjoy the scenery
- Light Sailing: Taking advantage of the thermal winds
Windsurf Granada Sports Club
They have set up a specific area with classes for beginners. You no longer need special permits to sail with a board.
Best Time
Summer is unbeatable for windsurfing, with almost daily thermal winds. For paddle surfing and kayaking, spring and autumn offer milder temperatures.
4. Negratín Reservoir
📍Guadix Granada
The Negratín reservoir is one of those well-kept secrets of Andalusia. Its turquoise waters contrast with the spectacular gullies and fairy chimneys that surround it, creating a landscape that seems taken from the Grand Canyon.
Available Activities
- Paddle Surf: The best way to explore the gullies
- Kayak: Routes among unique geological formations
- Canoeing: For the more traditional
- Pedal Boats: Relaxed family option
Nautical Base
The C.D. Negratín has a dock 500m from the dam, with equipment rental and wooden cabins for accommodation.
Why It’s Special
Ranked as one of the 10 most beautiful landscapes in Spain from a bird’s eye view. The boards are very stable, perfect for taking a child with you while exploring this “sea of the Altiplano”.
5. Cubillas Reservoir
📍Albolote Granada
Just 20 minutes from Granada city, the Cubillas reservoir hosts the Nautical Campus of the University of Granada, open to both university students and the general public. A perfect place to start in water sports.
Available Activities
- Kayak: Single and double
- Paddle Surf: With specialized instructors
- Light Sailing: Beginner courses
- Windsurfing: Taking advantage of the vega winds
- Dragon Boat: For groups
- Water Trampoline: Guaranteed fun!
Extra Services
Climbing wall, Dining area, Full locker rooms, Bus line from Granada (Line 0117).
Ideal for
School groups, families, and anyone who wants to learn water sports with all the guarantees and at popular prices.
6. Barbate Reservoir
📍Barbate Cádiz
Nestled in the Los Alcornocales Natural Park, the Barbate Reservoir offers a unique experience: sailing surrounded by the largest cork oak forest in the world. Its 2,540 hectares are a paradise for nature lovers.
Permitted Activities
- Kayak: Routes among centuries-old cork oaks
- Paddle Surf: In calm water areas
- Sailing: With motor restriction to 50 HP
- Bird Watching: Ornithological paradise
Particularities
Being in a natural park, activities are more regulated. Perfect for those seeking absolute tranquility and connection with nature.
Best Base
Alcalá de los Gazules is the nearest town, with all services and that charming white village of Cádiz.
7. Guadarranque Reservoir
📍Los barrios Cádiz
Although not the largest, the Guadarranque Reservoir has its own particular charm. Located in the Campo de Gibraltar, it offers spectacular views of the Rock and the African coast on clear days.
Available Activities
- Kayak: Short but intense routes
- Paddle Surf: Very calm waters
- Fishing from a boat: Very popular
Access
Several entry points from the road, with areas enabled for boarding. The surroundings of the Los Alcornocales Natural Park add an extra touch of beauty.
For Whom
Ideal for short getaways if you’re in the Campo de Gibraltar area. Perfect for starting out without stress.
8. Los Hurones Reservoir
📍ALGAR Cádiz
Between the natural parks of Los Alcornocales and Sierra de Grazalema, the Hurones reservoir is pure tranquility among mountains. Its 900 navigable hectares offer a spectacular setting.
Available Activities
- Kayak: No motor, just paddling
- Paddle Surf: In absolute peace
- Wildlife Observation: Trout, birds of prey
- Photography Routes: Movie-like landscapes
Important
Motorboats are not allowed, ensuring absolute tranquility. Perfect for disconnecting from the world.
Where to Park
Large open area near the point where the Ubrique and Garganta de Millán rivers meet. Bring everything you need, it’s an isolated area.
9. Jarrama Reservoir
📍Nerva Huelva
Located in the heart of the mining region, near Nerva, the Jarrama reservoir has become the aquatic refuge for kayak enthusiasts in Huelva. Surrounded by pines and with a landscape that narrows to form a picturesque bridge at the provincial border, it is pure Huelva nature.
Available Activities
- Kayak: Journeys from 1.5 to 4 hours
- Paddle Surf: In the wider areas
- Guided Tours: With environmental interpretation
- Nocturnal Activities: Full moon tours (seasonal)
Why It’s Special
After the closure of the Aracena reservoir for navigation in 2019, Jarrama (along with Olivargas) has become the perfect alternative for water sports in the Sierra de Huelva. Its calm waters and the pine surroundings create a unique atmosphere.
Best Time
From spring to autumn, although local businesses organize activities throughout the year. The full moon night routes in summer are especially magical.
Tips to Enjoy the Reservoirs to the Fullest
Necessary Documentation
To navigate Andalusian reservoirs, you need to present a responsible declaration. Items like “ducks,” floating tubes, or kayaks under 2.5 meters are exempt if swimming is not prohibited.
Best Time of Year
- Summer: Perfect for all activities, but more crowded
- Spring/Autumn: Ideal temperatures and fewer people
- Winter: Only for the brave, but some reservoirs offer wetsuit rentals
What to Bring
- Swimsuit and change of clothes
- Sunscreen (essential)
- Cap or hat
- Waterproof footwear
- Water and snacks
- Waterproof camera (you’ll want photos!)
Indicative Prices
- Kayak rental: 15-25€/hour
- Paddle Surf: 20-30€/hour
- Guided tours: 20-35€/person
- Beginner courses: 30-50€
Which One to Choose According to My Level?
For Beginners
Iznájar and El Chorro are perfect: calm waters, good services, and experienced instructors.
For Adventurers
El Negratín and Los Hurones offer wilder landscapes and less crowding.
For Athletes
Rules if you’re into windsurfing, Cubillas for a variety of activities.
For families
Iznájar with its inland beach and Barbate for its protected natural environment.
So now you know, next time you think about water sports in Andalusia, look inland. I promise these artificial lakes will surprise you as much as they did me. And who knows, we might even cross paths paddling on one of them.
Have you visited any of these reservoirs? Which is your favorite for water sports? Tell me in the comments!
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