Aquapolis - Riverside Park - South Bank

Category: Nature > Park

District: Santarém > Abrantes > Rossio ao Sul do Tejo > Ribeira de Alcolobre

Location:

The park stretches along the left bank of the Tagus River, in the Ribeira de Alcolobre area, in Rossio ao Sul do Tejo, Abrantes municipality. The riverside front follows the course of the river between the two bridges connecting the banks, offering a panoramic view of the water and the agricultural landscape on the other side. The proximity of the main riverbed mixes with areas of rocky outcrops, creating small islets visible especially at low tide.

The pedestrian path meanders through lawns, wooded slopes, and low viewpoints that allow observation of the current and the flight of herons or ducks. Even next to the walkway, a series of old stone pillars - the so-called "Mourões" - stand out, piercing the ground like sentinels and marking the transition to the more open area of the park.

Riverside Environment

The gentle terrain modeling and the visual continuity with the river give the space an airy atmosphere. Deciduous trees offer shade on hot days, while expanses of grass invite you to spread out a towel or practice stretching exercises. Paved paths in light tones reduce surface heating and make the route comfortable for light runs, skates, or bicycles.

The sound of the water, combined with the absence of traffic in the immediate area, creates a relaxing soundscape. In the late afternoon, the light reflects on the surface of the Tagus and bathes the park in a golden glow, forming an ideal picture for landscape photography.

Historical Memory

The "Mourões" bear witness to the pontoon bridge built during the Napoleonic invasions, when Abrantes had strategic importance in crossing the Tagus. Today, the prismatic blocks function as natural sculptural pieces, aligning parallel to the bank. This echo of the past offers a reading point of the region's military and economic history, recalling the old river connection that supported the traffic of troops and goods.

Near the old anchorage, interpretative information illustrates the chronology of the bridge, explaining the simple but effective engineering of the boats joined by cables and supported by the masonry pillars that are still visible.

Outdoor Life

The network of pedestrian paths and cycle paths totals about six kilometers, allowing for short laps or longer, less monotonous training sessions. Scattered across the lawn are stainless steel fitness equipment, suitable for resistance and stretching exercises. Next to a covered square, the polished pavement often hosts community events, from yoga classes to small craft markets.

Those who enjoy bank fishing can find designated areas to cast a line, with benches integrated into the slope. Dogs can circulate off-leash in specific areas, enclosed by low fencing for greater safety.

Sustainability and Conservation

The municipality has implemented a drip irrigation system powered by humidity sensors, reducing water consumption in the summer months. The vegetation combines native species with Mediterranean plants well-adapted to drought, decreasing the need for chemical fertilizers. Waste collection is daily, and paths are mechanically swept, keeping the space clean for all users.

Discreet panels explain the importance of riverside ecosystems and encourage good practices, such as picking up dog waste and respecting bird nesting areas.

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