Category: Nature > River Beach
District: Viana do Castelo > Caminha > Âncora > Gelfa
Praia do Forte do Cão is located in the Gelfa area, in the parish of Âncora, which is part of the municipality of Caminha. This location is on the Atlantic coast of northern Portugal, embraced by a natural landscape, with the Mata Nacional da Gelfa (Gelfa National Forest) prominent to the east. Its position offers expansive views of the ocean and the surrounding greenery, creating a setting where nature is the protagonist.
The geographical coordinates of this point are N41º 47.99526' W8º 52.26252'.
The beach's name derives from the existence of the Forte do Cão (Dog's Fort), a structure that stands by the sandy shore and unmistakably marks the coastal landscape. Built between 1699 and 1702, this fort possesses recognized historical and architectural value, having been classified as a "Property of Public Interest" in 1967. Its presence lends a unique element and a visual landmark to its surroundings.
Also known as Praia do Fortim do Cão or Praia da Gelfa, this beach features a morphology that combines extensive stretches of white sand with rocky areas, particularly in its southern portion. This characteristic gives it a wilder and more natural character. Along the sandy shore, dunes can be found, contributing to the preservation of its unique coastal ecosystem.
The waters of this beach are valued for their natural qualities, attributed to the presence of iodine, and are also sought after by those who practice activities such as surf and windsurf, taking advantage of the Atlantic Ocean's conditions. Its natural beauty offers an appealing setting to visit at any time of year, providing an authentic experience of contact with the coast.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.8000373,-8.871182
Coordinates DMS: 41°48'0.1"N 08°52'16.3"W