Mata Nacional dos Medos, Botanical reserve in Setúbal, Portugal.
Mata Nacional dos Medos is a protected area in Setúbal encompassing wetlands, forests, and coastal zones across hundreds of hectares. Multiple hiking trails cross through these different environments, allowing visitors to walk and observe the varied landscapes.
The area received protected status in 1971 when the government decided to preserve natural landscapes in the region. This early action helped secure important habitats for plants and animals.
The reserve serves as a place where school groups and researchers observe nature and understand local ecosystems. People visit to see how different habitats coexist and to learn which plants and animals thrive in this environment.
Trails are publicly accessible and mostly free to explore, with information signs placed along the routes. The best time to visit is spring and autumn when weather is pleasant and wildlife is active.
The site holds an international classification that underscores its importance for habitat protection. Many visitors do not realize this is a place where ongoing scientific work happens, which makes the natural surroundings particularly valuable.
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