Observatorio de Aves Mas de Bunyol

We’d really been looking forward to the trip and had a Friday reservation. We were told to meet at 9:15 am. We arrived on time and messaged the woman to ask where to go, then she canceled on us out of the blue because of light rain. Our reservation was confirmed, and nowhere had it said the event wouldn’t go ahead in rain. She then became extremely rude and unfriendly, saying it was our fault. What a bitter person. It’s a shame, we really wanted to see the vultures. Please send a message or say what conditions would cause the event to be canceled. The forecast had shown rain for a week, so why confirm our reservation? We drove 1,5 h to get there.

The moment the birds swoop in to feed is awe inspiring, enough to make the hair on your neck stand up. The owners’ hard work and dedication are inspiring too. We’d hoped for a lot, and the experience gave us even more. If you like birds even a little, give this a try. Vultures may not be everyone’s thing, but these are wild creatures, which makes seeing them special. You need to call ahead or book on WhatsApp, since the website and email aren’t useful for this, and bookings are essential. Meet the host promptly at 0900, then travel down in convoy. Wear dark clothes and move quietly so you don’t scare the birds for everyone else. The guests are passionate and know a lot, but the talk is in Spanish. Our Spanish is mediocre, though we could follow the gist. There are also excellent written materials for 1.50€, well worth the donation. The venue is cleverly designed, even with an external microphone so you can hear the birds. We were struck dumb with awe. This was worth every cent and more, and we’ll absolutely do it again if we return to this part of Spain.

Seeing the birds up close in such detail was amazing and truly spectacular. We took over 400 photos between us. We met the kindest, most sincere man, who managed to chat with us in English, and he took us to the Observatory. He opened the windows, set up the camouflaged netting, and brought out camera pillows. About 10 minutes later, he walked into the observation area with a wheelbarrow. Most of the 300 Griffon Vultures began calling, got agitated, and climbed over each other before some fought over the food. The later wheelbarrows didn’t cause nearly as much vulture drama. What a brilliant way to start the day. They wanted to charge us seven times as much to watch vultures from the same distance in a hide. This was a Bargain with a Capital B.

You really do need to book for this incredible experience, or you’ll never find the place. Google Maps sent us to the other side of the mountain. Photos and videos are welcome, but DO NOT use flash!