Category: Nature > Woodland
District: Coimbra > Cantanhede > Cordinhã
The Mata Nacional da Gândara, in this portion, extends through the region of Cantanhede, in the district of Coimbra, with particular relevance in the area of the locality of Cordinhã.
It is situated within a landscape characteristic of the Gândara, a vast coastal plain marked by sandy soils and generally flat topography, stretching along the central Portuguese coast. Its presence significantly shapes the surroundings, offering a dense green expanse that contrasts with the surrounding agricultural and urban areas, providing an environment of tranquility and fresh air.
The history of the Mata Nacional da Gândara dates back centuries, with its creation and expansion being a testament to the strategic vision for natural resource management in Portugal. Originally, its plantation, which began more intensively in the 13th century under the reign of King Dinis, had the primary objective of timber production, essential for naval and civil construction, as well as soil protection.
This vast pine forest served a vital purpose in fixing the dunes and containing wind and water erosion, playing a crucial role in stabilizing the coastline and preserving the fertility of inland lands. The forest thus represents a natural heritage built by man, which has endured over time, shaping the landscape and the local economy.
Predominantly composed of Maritime Pine, the Mata Nacional da Gândara offers an immersion into a forest ecosystem adapted to its characteristic soils. The air breathed is distinctly perfumed by the resinous aroma of the pines, and the ground, covered with pine needles, invites long walks.
This is a place of stillness, where the sounds of nature, such as the rustling of the treetops in the wind and the singing of birds, predominate. The forest constitutes a natural refuge for various species of fauna and flora adapted to this environment, providing a setting for observing wildlife, albeit discreetly. The experience of traversing its trails offers moments of serenity and the opportunity for a genuine connection with the natural landscape and the history of one of Portugal's largest pine forests.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.32416344689769,-8.520727373373646
Coordinates DMS: 40°19'27.0"N 08°31'14.6"W