A striking pink lake in Spain, located just an hour's drive from the popular British tourist destination Benidorm, is captivating visitors with its unusual colour and reputed health benefits. The Laguna Salada de Torrevieja, near Alicante, has gained attention on social media, with a TikTok video by user @carielizabethh amassing over 6.5 million views.
What Makes the Lake Pink?
The lake's distinctive bubblegum pink hue is caused by the activity of microorganisms, specifically salt bacteria and micro-algae, which thrive in the highly saline conditions. These organisms produce natural pigments that tint the water pink. The high salt content also allows swimmers to float effortlessly, similar to the Dead Sea.
Therapeutic Benefits and Precautions
Legend and local tradition suggest that covering the body in mud from the lake before swimming offers therapeutic benefits. The mud and water are said to help prevent skin and lung conditions, exfoliate and nourish the skin, and may be particularly beneficial for eczema sufferers. The treatment is also believed to aid with inflammation and pain relief. However, those with sensitive skin should exercise caution, as the high salt content can cause irritation or a stinging sensation.
Flamingos and the Ecosystem
The lake's elevated salt levels create an ideal habitat for brine shrimp, which in turn attract flamingos. The shrimp are responsible for giving the flamingos their iconic pink plumage. Visitors are advised to be respectful and only swim in designated areas protected by wooden planks.
Travel Republic, a holiday provider, has highlighted the lake as an unmissable spot, noting its unique properties and the floating experience it offers. The lake is described as 'one of the most unique experiences' due to its salt content enabling effortless floating.
