El Plano is a lovely natural area just north of Sax. It’s easy to find, just head towards Sax castle, keeping it on your left as you drive up the hill.
Signposts will guide you to turn right onto a country road, and after a few minutes, you’ll see El Plano on your right.
The landscape here is quite special. It’s very dry and salty, with limestone hills and gypsum-rich soil. This shapes the plants that grow in the area. Most of the land is covered in Aleppo pine trees, planted back in the 1950s. These trees grow slowly, but they’re tough and suited to the climate. In the driest spots, like La Hoya or Albardinar, only hardy plants like albardín can survive. In other parts with gypsum and lime in the soil, you might also spot plants like blackthorn and soapwort.
There is plenty of wildlife to see, too. Rabbits, squirrels, hedgehogs, and foxes all live here, along with birds like goldfinches, greenfinches, wood pigeons, and thrushes. If you are lucky, you might also spot an ocellated lizard basking in the sun hovering near the artificial pond.
El Plano in Sax: Facilities
El Plano has a range of facilities; there are picnic tables, fountains, and barbecues, some of which are accessible for wheelchair users. A kiosk-bar sits on the grounds too, though it’s currently not in service. Toilets with showers are available, including disabled access, and there is a small playground for children.
There is also a camping area (it’s best to book ahead through the Town Hall website: sax.es), and plenty of parking, including spots for disabled visitors. One popular feature for kiddies in summer is the Fuente de los Chorros fountain, though it is a good idea to check the opening times before you go.
If you enjoy walking, there’s an easy circular trail that loops around the area. The path is well-marked, and along the way you’ll find signs that explain the local plants, animals, and how this dry ecosystem works.
