Site of Community Importance Ria de Aveiro

The Ria de Aveiro extends for 45 kilometers from Ovar to Mira, forming an intricate network of channels and islands along the Portuguese coast.

In 1575, Atlantic storms sealed off the seaport from the ocean, leading to the formation of the current lagoon system with its scattered islands.

Local communities maintain traditional activities including salt production, a practice dating back to Roman times and documented since 959 through Countess Mumadona Dias.

Visitors can explore the lagoon through water sports, bird watching activities, or guided tours on traditional moliceiro boats throughout the connected waterways.

The water network contains salt marshes that support over 20,000 wintering waterbirds and hosts substantial breeding populations of protected species.

Location: Coimbra

Website: https://natura2000.eea.europa.eu/Natura2000/SDF.aspx?site=PTCON0061

Operator: Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas

Opening Hours: 24/7

Website: https://natura2000.eea.europa.eu/Natura2000/SDF.aspx?site=PTCON0061

GPS coordinates: 40.66157,-8.71528

Latest update: March 3, 2025 10:21