Puntos de Interés
Hydrography
Utxesa reservoir
The Utxesa Reservoir is one of the most unique natural areas in the vicinity of the River Segre and Utxesa Reservoir Nature Trail. Located between the municipalities of Torres de Segre and Sarroca de Lleida, it was built in 1914 as part of the Seròs Canal water system, developed by the company “La Canadenca” for the generation of hydroelectric power. Over time, the large, man-made body of water eventually became a wetland of immense ecological value.
It covers an area of some 70 hectares and is surrounded by reed beds, floodplains, riverside woodlands and farmland, which together form a landscape that is very typical of the Segrià region. The combination of water and vegetation has encouraged the development of a wide range of wildlife, particularly waterbirds and migratory birds. As a result, the area was designated a Wildlife Nature Reserve, becoming one of the main birdwatching spots in inland Catalonia.
Visitors can see herons, ducks, cormorants, storks and other wetland and reed beds. The tranquillity of certain areas of the reservoir also encourages migratory birds to nest and rest there during their seasonal journeys.
The appearance of the reservoir has changed significantly since it was built. Originally conceived as industrial and energy infrastructure, it is now a space where nature and human activity coexist closely. The footpaths, birdwatching spots and visitor centres dotted around the area allow visitors to explore this landscape from an environmental and educational perspective.
As well as its ecological value, the reservoir is of significant historical interest for its links with the development of hydroelectric power in the early 20th century. The construction of the Seròs Canal and the reservoir brought about a profound transformation of the region, boosting both electricity generation and the development of irrigated agriculture across much of the Lleida area. Today, the Utxesa reservoir remains one of the major natural landmarks of the lower sections of the River Segre.