We will travel for some time in a young land, created by nature, where less than a millennium ago it was open sea. This tour, focused on nature and the transformation of the landscape allows us to understand how amazing the Ria de Aveiro region is and how it shaped its inhabitants, and how it was shaped by them. The salt pans, the large canals, the typical boats and also the large fishing ones, the striped painted houses on the Costa Nova, the harbor entrance, the lighthouse, porcelain factory and its chapel at Vista Alegre are all vestiges of an impressive effort by women and men throughout the centuries. A unique route in a unique region.
We’ll leave Aveiro and cross the Central Canal, arriving in the traditional salt fields and the Environmental Interpretation Centre, where we’ll attempt to spot flamingoes. Next we will visit Aveiro’s two quays - the distant-water fishing quay and the commercial quay - where we’ll learn more about the region’s natural evolution and economic history.
At Praia da Barra we will gaze upon the man-made opening where the lagoon meets the sea. This structure was built in the early nineteenth century, using the stone from Aveiro’s medieval city walls. The majestic lighthouse stands out in the beautiful Atlantic landscape, accompanying us as we enjoy a short walk by the sea.
We will also walk through Costa Nova, along the typical striped wooden houses. These used to be fishermen’s abodes and are nowadays part of one of the most beautiful and original coastal landscapes in Portugal. You will also have a chance to taste our Portuguese custard tarts (Pasteis de Nata), in one of our local bakeries.
You will make your own way to the meeting points