Natural Reserve of the Lagoons of Santo André and Sancha

Category: Nature > Nature Reserve

District: Setúbal > Santiago do Cacém > Brescos > Monte da Vinha

Location

The Santo André and Sancha Lagoons Nature Reserve stretches across the coastal landscape of the Alentejo Coast. It is located mainly in the municipality of Santiago do Cacém, with a portion to the east already belonging to the municipality of Sines, along a coastal strip approximately fifteen kilometers long. Its area also includes an adjacent maritime sector, and inland, it is located near the Monte da Vinha urbanization, in the locality of Brescos, Santiago do Cacém, where the Interpretation Centre is found.

A Mosaic of Ecosystems

This natural territory is defined by the presence of two important bodies of water: the Santo André Lagoon, the largest coastal lagoon in Alentejo, with approximately five hundred hectares, and the Sancha Lagoon, of smaller size, occupying about fifteen hectares. The coexistence of fresh and brackish waters has given rise to a remarkable variety of environments. Here, one finds salt marshes, willow groves, extensive reed beds, rush beds, marshy heaths, and humid pastures, which combine with the dune cord that separates them from the ocean, creating a landscape of great ecological value.

Wildlife and Observation

The Santo André and Sancha Lagoons Nature Reserve is a site of recognized importance for avifauna in Portugal, notably for its international relevance. The diversity of habitats attracts a large number of bird species, with late summer and early autumn being the most favorable times for their observation, as many birds find refuge in these waters. Some species appear here in greater numbers than anywhere else in the country, such as the Eurasian coot and the red-crested pochard. The Sancha Lagoon, in turn, hosts a nesting colony of purple heron, while the Savi's warbler is considered one of the Reserve's symbols. In addition to birds, the flora and vegetation are rich in endemisms, especially those populating the dune system, and the ichthyofauna includes endangered species, as well as other faunal groups of interest.

Nature Experiences

For visitors to the Santo André and Sancha Lagoons Nature Reserve, the site offers various possibilities to enjoy the natural environment. The paths invite leisurely walks, allowing for a peaceful immersion in the landscape. The lagoons, particularly Santo André, provide conditions for aquatic activities such as canoeing or windsurfing. On the adjacent beaches, which are part of the Reserve's coastal area, it is possible to simply stroll and enjoy the extensive sandy beach. At the Santo André and Sancha Lagoons Interpretation Centre, located in Monte do Paio, visitors can deepen their knowledge about the local fauna, flora, geology, and history through informative exhibitions and videos.

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