Santa Margarida Environmental Park

Category: Nature > Park

District: Santarém > Constância > Santa Margarida da Coutada > Vale de Mestre

Location

The Santa Margarida Environmental Park is located in the Vale de Mestre area, integrated into the locality of Santa Margarida da Coutada, belonging to the municipality of Constância. It occupies an area in a rural setting, characterized by tranquility and proximity to nature. Positioned on the south bank of the Tejo River, the park offers, from higher vantage points, wide views of the surrounding landscape, marked by greenery and rural serenity.

Contact with Nature

Spanning approximately six hectares, this park was designed to provide visitors with direct contact with the natural environment. It is a space where one can enjoy moments of pause and observation. The pedestrian paths allow exploration of the diverse vegetation present, with emphasis on native species and the typical landscape of Mediterranean scrubland, cork oaks, and pines that compose the verdant scenery.

The Tropical Butterfly House

One of the most notable features of the park is the Tropical Butterfly House. It is an enclosed space where climatic conditions (warm and humid) typical of tropical regions are recreated. Inside, it is possible to observe various species of tropical butterflies flying freely among the vegetation. This place offers an opportunity to closely observe the life cycle of these insects, from caterpillar to adult butterfly, and appreciate their variety of shapes and colors in an exotic environment. The visit to the Butterfly House is guided, allowing visitors to learn about the biology and importance of butterflies to ecosystems.

Spaces and Facilities

In addition to its natural component, the park offers various spaces and facilities that enhance the visit. It includes a garden dedicated to aromatic and medicinal plants, inviting the discovery of different aromas and properties. The Ecoteca functions as a support center with environmental information resources. There is also an open-air amphitheatre and water features that contribute to the scenic atmosphere of the site. For leisure, the park has a picnic area and a games field.

Observation Point

Within the park, the observation tower stands out as a strategic point for visitors. From the top, it is possible to have a general panoramic view of the entire Environmental Park, facilitating an understanding of its organization and dimensions. The view also encompasses the vast rural and riverside landscape surrounding the park, providing context for its location within the region.

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