Botanical Garden

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Castelo Branco > Covilhã > Covilhã > Biquinha

Location

The Botanical Garden is located in the city of Covilhã, in an area known as Biquinha. It is part of Alexandre Aibéo Park, on a hillside that rises north of the urban center. Its position gives it a natural setting that evokes proximity to the Serra da Estrela, serving as a gateway to the surrounding mountainous landscape.

The garden's location offers a unique perspective on the surrounding area, blending with the mountain environment. It is a place where nature meets urbanization, in a gentle transition.

A Spectacle of Mountain Flora

With an area of 12,000 square meters, this garden is dedicated to showcasing a vast and diverse collection of botanical species. The main focus is on the characteristic flora of the Serra da Estrela, but the space extends its scope to plants from other mountainous regions, including Southern and Central Europe, and North Africa.

Among the richness of its vegetation, it is possible to observe imposing oaks, holm oaks and cork oaks, ash and elm trees, as well as beeches, ginkgo, cedars, and firs. Also noteworthy are the yews and broom bushes, common on the slopes of the Serra da Estrela, and the presence of rare sequoias, which enrich this botanical mosaic.

Walks and Discoveries

The garden invites tranquil strolls through pedestrian paths that wind through the various species. Each plant, tree, and shrub is properly identified, allowing visitors to learn and deepen their knowledge of the exposed flora.

Designed for leisure and knowledge acquisition, this space is an invitation to careful observation and discovery, providing an immersive experience in the plant world. Its educational function makes it an ideal place for those seeking to understand the botanical diversity of mountain areas.

A Serene Refuge

Inaugurated in 2012, after a redevelopment project of the old park, the Botanical Garden offers an environment of serenity and contemplation. It is a place where the calm of nature can be felt, far from the daily hustle and bustle of the city. Its design aims to enhance relaxation and enjoyment of a large green space.

Equipped with supporting infrastructure, including a reception and restrooms, the garden ensures the comfort of its visitors. Its tiered layout and elevated location can provide, in some points, views of the surrounding landscape, highlighting the natural beauty of the region.

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