Discover the Tranquil Beauty of the Douro Estuary Nature Reserve
Explore the breathtaking Douro Estuary Nature Reserve, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers amidst stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
The Douro Estuary Nature Reserve is a breathtaking sanctuary that offers stunning views and diverse wildlife. Perfect for birdwatchers and nature lovers, this reserve showcases the rich biodiversity of the region, making it an ideal escape for tourists seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Nature Reserve Douro Estuary Site
- Rio Douro, PT
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best birdwatching opportunities.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as trails can be uneven and varied.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit for the best experience.
- Take some time to relax by the riverbanks and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards the A1 motorway from your location in Douro. Follow the A1 towards Porto for approximately 30 kilometers. Take the exit towards A29, continuing on this road for about 15 kilometers. Follow the signs for 'Reserva Natural do Estuário do Douro' as you approach the region of Vila Nova de Gaia. The nature reserve is located along the Douro River, and there is parking available near the entrance. Be prepared for a parking fee which typically ranges from 1 to 3 Euros per hour.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Nature Reserve Douro Estuary Site using public transportation, first, take a train from the Douro Valley stations (e.g., Peso da Régua) to Porto São Bento station. The train journey takes about 2.5 hours. Once in Porto, transfer to the metro system. Take the metro line D (yellow line) towards 'Hospital de São João' and disembark at 'Câmara de Gaia' station. From here, you can take a local bus (bus number 901) that heads towards the nature reserve. The bus fare is approximately 1.50 Euros. The total travel time may be around 3 to 4 hours depending on connections.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, cycling is a great way to reach the Nature Reserve. Start your journey from Douro by following the scenic Douro River bike path. Rent a bicycle from a local rental service in Douro. Depending on your route, it may take about 2 to 3 hours to reach the reserve, covering approximately 25 kilometers. Make sure to bring water and snacks, as there may not be many stops along the way.
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Walking
If you are near the Douro River and feel like taking a long walk, you can walk from nearby towns along the riverbank. This is a longer option and requires good walking shoes. Depending on your starting point, it may take several hours to reach the reserve, so plan ahead for breaks and hydration. This option is best for those who enjoy nature and want to experience the beauty of the Douro region up close.
Discover more about Nature Reserve Douro Estuary Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tide gauge of Foz do Douro
1.1 km
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Farol do Pontão
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Igreja de São João Baptista da Foz do Douro
1.4 km
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Foz do Rio Douro
1.5 km
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Igreja Paroquial de São Pedro da Afurada
1.8 km
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Mercado da Foz do Douro
2.2 km
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Senhora da Luz Lighthouse
2.3 km
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Monumento a Luís de Camões
2.4 km
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R. Dom João de Castro 210
2.5 km
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Igreja da Confraria das Almas do Corpo Santo de Massarelos
2.8 km
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Monumento às vítimas do incêndio do Teatro Baquet
3.2 km
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Douro Valley Wine Tours | Oporto Transfers
3.2 km
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Estátua O Homem do Leme
3.2 km
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Bandes dessinées
3.3 km
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Chapelle
3.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Capela-Farol de São Miguel-o-Anjo
1.2 km
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Marina da Afurada
1.2 km
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R. do Passeio Alegre
1.2 km
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Chafariz do Passeio Alegre
1.3 km
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Lago dos Meninos do Passeio Alegre
1.3 km
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Jardim do Passeio Alegre
1.4 km
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Largo António Calém
1.4 km
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Pontão da Barra do Douro - Molhe Norte
1.5 km
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Antigo sanatório de Tuberculosos da Foz do Douro
1.5 km
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Passos da Foz do Douro
1.6 km
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Viewpoint Santa Catarina
1.6 km
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Farolim de Felgueiras - Porto
1.7 km
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Forte de São João Baptista da Foz
1.7 km
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Farolim da Barra do Douro
1.7 km
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Parque Urbano da Pasteleira
1.7 km
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Essential places to dine
DaTerra Foz do Douro
1.1 km
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Al Mare
1.5 km
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Adega Rio Douro
1.6 km
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A Capoeira
1.7 km
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Casa da Foz
1.7 km
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Tentações no Prato
1.8 km
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Barão da Foz
1.9 km
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O Travessa
1.9 km
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Taberna Porto à Noite
2.1 km
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Casa Rocha - comes e bebes
2.1 km
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Hamburgaria da Foz
2.2 km
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Cafeína
2.6 km
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Tourigalo Porto
2.9 km
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Auge Porto
3.1 km
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Restaurante Flor de Lis By Vila Foz
3.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
MARHLA FOZ
1.8 km
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Foz
1.9 km
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Morgado Foz
2.0 km
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La Paz Foz
2.0 km
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Carlotta Cake Boutique - Loja Foz
2.0 km
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Foz Market
2.1 km
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Becode Foz
2.3 km
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La Punta - Foz
2.4 km
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Fashion Lovers Boutique
2.8 km
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Foz Shopping Mall
3.0 km
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Lanidor Woman
3.2 km
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Shopping Cidade do Porto
3.4 km
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Boutique Nespresso na Av. da Boavista
3.4 km
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Wrong Weather Store
3.4 km
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Peninsula Boutique Center
3.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Salty - Shisha and Lounge
1.6 km
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Pisco's Bar
1.7 km
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Eleven Sports Bar Foz
1.8 km
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Bar Tolo
1.9 km
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SH Vinhos e Gourmet Foz
2.1 km
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Ervilha Bar
2.2 km
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Pub Bonaparte Foz
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Alfama Bar Foz
2.4 km
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Checkmate Club
2.4 km
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Ar d'Mar
2.5 km
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Brasão Foz Brewery
2.7 km
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Paredão
2.7 km
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Douro Sky Lounge
2.7 km
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HUB Gastrobar
3.1 km
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Taberna do Zé
3.2 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
D. Urraca
1.7 km
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Euphoria Lounge
1.8 km
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Vintage Club Boavista
3.1 km
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Discoteca Club 84 Porto
3.5 km
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O Templo
3.6 km
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The View
3.8 km
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Hard Club
4.0 km
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Erica Jales Studio
4.1 km
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Moreclub, Lda.
4.2 km
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Rendez Vous - Discoteca
4.2 km
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Plano B
4.2 km
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Lust Porto
4.2 km
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Tendinha Dos Clérigos
4.2 km
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O Meu Mercedes é Maior Que o Teu,
4.3 km
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Hot Five Jazz & Blues Club (CLOSED)
4.6 km
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