Vila do Conde Coast Regional Protected Landscape and Mindelo Ornithological Reserve

Category: Nature > Reserve

District: Porto > Vila do Conde > Mindelo > Areia - Mindelo

Location

This protected natural area is located on the coastal strip south of the municipality of Vila do Conde, covering the area of Areia and Mindelo. It extends for approximately 8.5 kilometers along the coastline, in an area where the preserved natural environment coexists with some areas closer to urbanization. Its location allows one to appreciate the transition between the Atlantic coast and the more inland environments.

A Mosaic of Natural Habitats

The site stands out for the remarkable diversity of environments that coexist on the same coastal strip. It is possible to observe a complex mosaic of habitats that includes extensive dune systems, wetlands with temporary lagoons, rock formations by the sea, small areas of native vegetation, and even traditional agricultural areas. This landscape variety is fundamental to the area's biological richness.

Richness of Biodiversity

The area is an important refuge for numerous species of fauna and flora. Its classification as the Mindelo Ornithological Reserve underscores its value for birds, with it being possible to observe around 145 bird species throughout the year, many of which use this coastline as a stopover point or for wintering. In addition to birds, the site is crucial for the conservation of amphibians, hosting a remarkable diversity of species, and supports a vast community of invertebrates. The flora is also notable, with an emphasis on rare and endemic plant species, especially on the dune ridges.

Pioneering Conservation

This space holds a particular historical and symbolic value in the panorama of nature conservation in Portugal. The Mindelo Ornithological Reserve was the first protected area to be created in the country, in the 1950s and 1960s. Its creation is intrinsically linked to the vision and dedication of Professor Santos Júnior, a pioneer in the defense of these landscapes and their importance for biodiversity, particularly for avifauna.

Exploring the Landscape

The protected landscape invites discovery and nature observation. There are trails that allow you to explore the different environments, from the proximity of the beach to the more inland areas with dunes and wetlands. While walking along these paths, it is possible to appreciate the different perspectives of the coastline, observe the diversity of habitats, and feel the tranquility of this unique natural space.

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