The landscape of mainland Portugal is diverse and very rich, with great natural importance. There are native, protected and so many rare species. That is why, since 1976 until today, there are 13 natural parks in continental Portugal. They are places situated in mountainous areas, on plateaus, by steep cliffs or in estuaries, which make each one of them unique.
Here, natural wealth rules!
What is a Natural Park?
An area is considered a Natural Park when its ecosystems are natural or semi-natural, and where these may need human intervention to be preserved over time. This classification, while keeping these areas open to the public, makes it possible to ensure their maintenance and sustainability. This classification means that these areas are studied and monitored by biologists and other professionals, in order to establish measures that promote the conservation of species.
In mainland Portugal there are 13 Natural Parks, spread from north to south, from the coast to the Spanish border. No two parks are alike! From the altitude, the type of soil, the sun exposure, the proximity to the sea, the abundance of water, among many other factors, make each place unique!
The Portuguese natural parks:
* Montesinho;
* Douro International;
* Northern coast;
* Alvão;
* Serra da Estrela;
* International Tagus;
* Aire and Candeeiros mountains;
* São Mamede;
* Sintra-Cascais;
* Arrábida
* Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast
* Guadiana valley;
* Ria Formosa.
Things you should bring when visiting a natural park
When you visit one of the Portuguese parks you should bring some things with you, some are mandatory, others are just useful.
* Hat;
* Sun screen;
* Bottles of water;
* Energy bars, fruit or other food more easily conserved;
* Map;
* Compass;
* Paper and pen;
* Paper and pen;
* First aid kit;
* Light and fresh/thermal clothing (depending on the season);
* Binoculars;
* Mountain shoes;
* A change of clothes.
Visiting nature parks allows us to get closer to the natural world, but also to local communities, as these parks are also inserted in towns, villages and cities. The preservation of these places goes far beyond the protection and conservation of fauna and flora. It is also about people and traditions. Exploring a Nature Park on holiday is an amazing option that almost always brings together passionate people, beautiful villages, unforgettable landscapes and lots of contact with nature!
How about a road trip through the Portuguese natural parks?
Talk to SóPraSi and we take care of everything!