The Côa river represents a significant fluvial corridor, with about 140km of extension. From the source, in the Serra das Mesas (Sabugal), to the mouth, in the Douro River (Vila Nova de Foz Côa), this river crosses the plateau area of the Beira Interior, which corresponds to the end of the Iberian Meseta. Its natural landscape has recovered in recent decades, and there are now large tracts of young oak trees (Pyrenean Oak), among with natural meadows and ash tree groves. Consequently, wildlife has returned to or strengthened its presence in this territory, with large herbivores such as the Red deer and the Roe deer standing out. This landscape is formed by a great diversity of mediterranean plants, including several Iberian endemisms. Along the region crossed by the Côa, the landscapes consist of clusters of Pyrenean Oak (Quercus pyrenaica), some Chestnut trees (Castanea sativa), Holm oaks (Quercus rotundifolia) and scrubland. These are interspersed with open areas in the lower areas, usually mudflats and fresh meadows delimited by lines of ash trees. On the plateau, some areas are also partitioned by walls and small hedges, where some cattle are still grazing. This diversity of environments allows the occurrence of a great variety of plants, some of them of restricted distribution to the Iberian Peninsula, such as the small and apparently fragile Linaria saxatilis, the White Broom (Cytisus multiflorus), the Spanish Foxglove (Digitalis thapsi), the iberian snapdragon Antirrhinum graniticum, the Ornithogalum concinnum and the beautiful Iberian Peony (Paeonia broteri).

Programme

In this activity we will mainly explore the rewilding areas of the Greater Côa Valley, in order to appreciate the evolution of the landscape and the Mediterranean botanical diversity. We'll be travelling by car in order to explore a greater diversity of sites. The sites will be explored on foot.

What's Included?

The price of the activity includes specialized guide, local transportation, fee for nature conservation, insurance, all permits. Type of activity: visit on vehicle, but including several stops for short exploration walks.

How your experience helps rewilding efforts

Our activities seek to publicise the natural heritage of the rewilding areas and the actions that have been carried out in favour of restoring the landscape and the ecosystems of the Greater Côa Valley. A percentage of our profits is donated to support rewilding initiatives in the Greater Côa Valley, through our partner Rewilding Portugal.

Group size

Maximum of 4 participants. For other conditions, please contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meeting point: place to be agreed Duration: half day ​​/​​ full day Recommended period: from early April till mid June. The activity may include a picnic, with an extra cost.