Praia de Melres, River beach in Melres, Portugal
Praia de Melres is a river beach on the Douro in northern Portugal with a sandy area surrounded by waterside vegetation and hills. The beach has open spaces for visitors and amenities including changing rooms, restrooms, and a first aid station.
Melres grew as a crossing point in medieval times for traders moving between Porto and inland areas. The Douro served as the region's main trade route for centuries.
The place has deep roots in river fishing and navigation traditions. The community maintains its connection to the waterway through daily activities and local customs tied to the Douro.
The beach is well equipped and easy to access, with parking nearby and plenty of space for visitors of all abilities. A bar operates during summer offering refreshments, though facilities are reduced during other seasons.
Rabelos, traditional flat-bottomed wooden boats, regularly pass downstream and show the river's role in the region's wine trade history. These boats were once essential for moving port wine barrels.
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