13 
Embalse de la Pedrera - the blue jewel of the Costa Blanca
Imagine that you are driving through the arid Spanish countryside and suddenly a huge body of water resembling a fjord rises in front of you. Beautiful, blue, teal.....
This is exactly the first impression of the Embalse de la Pedrera dam, one of the most impressive water works in the province of Alicante.
The story of this dam begins in 1927, when local farmers faced a severe drought. Imagine their despair - the crops were dying before their eyes and there was no solution. Eventually, a bold plan was born to build a huge dam in the middle of 'nowhere'. Many people thought this idea was crazy (however, the local project was nicknamed 'El Loco' - The Crazy), but as is often the case, the best ideas are often born from the greatest craziness.
Construction began in 1935 and was a technological marvel for its time. Imagine the hundreds of workers who carved the rock by hand in the heat of the Spanish sun to create the 61 meter high dam. Work was interrupted by the civil war, but in 1968 the work was finally completed.
Today, the Embalse de la Pedrera is much more than just a reservoir. In practice, it was built primarily to accumulate water and ensure its controlled use for irrigation and electricity production. It is a place where history meets modern tourism. And believe me, surprises await at every turn.
From the crown of the dam you have a view that will take your breath away. On one side the azure water surface, on the other arid landscape - you will hardly find a greater contrast. Did you know that carp as big as a small child live here? Local fishermen swear that they have caught specimens over 20 kg!
The original village of La Pedrera rests below the surface. When the water level is extremely low, you can see the remains of old houses.
The area has also become home to rare bird species. Ornithologists have counted over 50 species here!
The dam creates its own microclimate. In summer, it cools the surroundings by up to 5°C - no wonder it is a popular refuge from the heat.
And we also have a legend here - the locals told us about the 'water lady', who supposedly dances on the water under the full moon. Well, it sure would be a beautiful sight anyway.
The best time to visit is early morning or early evening and don't forget your camera - the sunsets here are magical. And local restaurants by the dam serve delicious paella with fish straight from the reservoir.
The Embalse de la Pedrera is not just an ordinary dam - it is living proof that even seemingly crazy ideas can change a landscape beyond recognition. It is a place where technical skill meets natural beauty, history meets the present, and where every visitor will find something that enchants them.
And when you stand here on the crest of the embankment and look at the glittering surface, remember those 'fools' who almost a hundred years ago decided to turn the arid wasteland into an oasis of life.
