Buçaquinho Environmental Park

Category: Nature > Park

District: Aveiro > Ovar > Esmoriz > Bairro de Santa Luzia

Location

Located in the town of Esmoriz, municipality of Ovar, the Buçaquinho Environmental Park is situated in the Bairro de Santa Luzia. Its location allows for a direct connection to the coast via the Atlantic Ecopath, a route that stretches for several kilometers, linking the beaches of Esmoriz to Furadouro, along the Forest Road. This positioning gives it an integrated role in the municipality's natural heritage network, offering an access point to a vast green area and an invitation to explore the region.

A Sustainable Transformation

Inaugurated on April 25, 2013, the Buçaquinho Environmental Park is a remarkable example of landscape recovery and sustainability. This 24-hectare area, now a protected forest of great environmental value, was previously occupied by a Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) that operated for twelve years. Its conversion into a natural space for leisure and education earned the park an award in the "Sustainable Cities" category of the Green Project Awards in 2016, demonstrating a commitment to improving the environment and quality of life.

Nature and Biodiversity

Buçaquinho Park is a refuge for a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Among the dense pine forest, there are six depurated lagoons that serve as habitats for various species, including amphibians such as the Marbled Newt. Birdwatching is facilitated by the available observation posts and tower, allowing visitors to appreciate the local avifauna. Additionally, the forest is inhabited by mammals such as the Red Squirrel, the Weasel, and the Genet. An aromatic plant garden offers a unique sensory experience, with scents of rosemary, thyme, lavender, anise, and other herbs.

Leisure and Outdoor Activities

This natural space is ideal for those seeking a tranquil environment for leisure activities. Visitors can explore the park's extent by traversing the various dirt trails, either on foot or by bicycle. The grassy areas invite rest and contemplation, providing a pleasant spot for an outdoor picnic. The park also hosts an Environmental Education Center, regularly promoting initiatives aimed at raising awareness about ecology and sustainability, enriching knowledge about the region's natural heritage.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt