Samouco Salt Pans, Foundation for Environmental Protection and Management

Category: Nature > Salt Pans

District: Setúbal > Alcochete > Samouco > Salinas do Samouco

Location:

The Samouco Salt Pans are located in the Samouco area, integrated into the municipality of Alcochete. Surrounded by the estuarine landscape of the Tagus River, this place offers a vast natural area, characterized by its tranquility and panoramic views over the waters and vegetation that make up the riverside environment. Its strategic position allows direct contact with nature and with the unique estuarine scenery.

A Biodiversity Sanctuary:

This natural space, extending for approximately 360 hectares, is recognized as an important Special Protection Area, serving as a refuge for remarkable wildlife diversity. It is a crucial spot for birdwatching, hosting around 170 species, many of them migratory, such as elegant flamingos, herons, and black-winged stilts. For those interested in ornithology, there are infrastructures that facilitate contact with and observation of this vibrant ecosystem. In addition to birds, the site is also inhabited by docile Mirandese donkeys, which enrich the visiting experience at this sanctuary.

Salt Production Tradition and Environmental Mission:

The Samouco Salt Pans keep alive a millenary tradition of sea salt production, historically known as "white gold", which played a vital role in the economy and subsistence of many families in Alcochete. A portion of the salt pans is still in operation, allowing visitors to get closer to this important cultural and economic legacy. The Foundation responsible for managing the site has as its central mission the environmental protection and conservation of this unique ecosystem, seeking to reconcile the cultural heritage of salt extraction with nature preservation efforts.

Nature Experiences and Accessibility:

This place invites exploration through walks and immersion in the natural environment. Guided tour options are available, providing in-depth knowledge about the local fauna and flora, as well as the importance of their conservation. For moments of relaxation and socializing, picnic tables are available in picturesque settings. The commitment to inclusion is evident in the accessibility of the space, with adapted routes that allow people with reduced mobility to fully enjoy this natural heritage and its beauty.

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