Aguda Dunes Park

Category: Nature > Park

District: Porto > Vila Nova de Gaia > Aguda

Location

Located in Aguda, Vila Nova de Gaia, this park is situated right on the coastline, near the beach. Access is facilitated by an extensive continuous boardwalk that runs along a large part of Gaia's coast, allowing you to reach the park on a pleasant seaside walk, offering unobstructed ocean views.

A Conservation Project

This space was created in 1997 as part of a European conservation programme (LIFE), with the main purpose of preserving an important dune ecosystem and the life forms found here. Its establishment underscored the importance of protecting these fragile environments. Spanning about 3 hectares, the park serves as a remarkable example of the recovery and coastal management of natural habitats.

Biodiversity and Ecosystem

The unique dune environment hosts a remarkable diversity of plants and birds, demonstrating nature's ability to recover when protected. The flora is composed of species adapted to this sandy and saline environment, which are crucial for dune stabilization. This ecosystem is also a vital nesting site for several birds, such as the Kentish plover, granting the area special protection status for its coastal fauna and flora.

Trails and Discovery

To explore the Aguda Dunes Park, there are wooden boardwalks that cross the area. These elevated pathways allow visitors to observe the habitat up close without disturbing its fragility. Along the boardwalks, you will find informational panels that help identify and understand the different plant species present, making the visit an opportunity for environmental education and the discovery of coastal nature.

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