Top 8 Natural Monuments around Fão

What to do and Nearby Points of Interest North Coast Ecovia: The estuary is a key point on the North Coast Ecovia, a pedestrian and cycle path that follows the coast and riverbanks. Bridge over the Neiva River: A pedestrian and cycle bridge with remarkable architecture was inaugurated in 2019 over the river, allowing crossing and continuity of the ecovia route. Hiking and Cycling: The area is ideal for leisurely walks, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural and bucolic landscape of the banks. Antas Hunting and Fishing Club: The local club manages fishing activity in the area and organizes initiatives for the protection of wildlife. The Neiva Estuary is a place of great serenity and beauty, ideal for those seeking direct contact with nature and outdoor activities.

Characteristics and Ecological Importance Biodiversity: The estuary is a crucial habitat for local fauna and flora. The presence of fresh and salt water creates a unique ecosystem that attracts a variety of aquatic birds and fish species, making it a place of interest for birdwatching. Protected Area: The area is part of the Esposende Coastal Protected Landscape, which attests to its relevance in terms of nature conservation.

The Neiva River Estuary is located in northern Portugal, in the municipality of Esposende, in the parish of Antas. This estuary is a place of great ecological and scenic importance, marked by the meeting of the Neiva River with the Atlantic Ocean.

The name Ophir appears several times in the Old Testament, including to designate a land distant from Israel where gold was collected. The gold of Ophir is often referred to as a separate gold, which may be due to the joint expedition of King Solomon and King Hiram (Tyre, Phoenicia) that set sail from the Red Sea and brought back 14 or 15 tons of gold from Ophir (1 Kings 9:26-28; 2 Chronicles 8:17-18). Thus, the Portuguese beach may be related to a new Ophir discovered by the Phoenicians. A famous local legend, the "legend of the horses of Phanus," even claims that "the biblical Ophir" was located in the place of modern Ophir. Source: Wikipedia

A beautiful view of the ocean with the mouth of the Rio Neiva. Very invigorating.

On the banks of the Neiva River, traces of ancient human activities such as mills, sawmills and flax mills that once gave life to the region still remain. Today, this natural setting is home to a rich biodiversity: trout and bream glide through the waters, otters peek out curiously, and in the sky, birds fill the estuary with movement. Among the winged inhabitants, the grey heron, the mallard, the yellow-legged gull and the agile kingfisher stand out.

Belinho Beach stretches for about three kilometres, flanked by a long line of dunes where small wetlands are hidden. The sand is unique, made up of quartzite pebbles of various sizes, which shine in the sun. You can explore the dune landscape on the boardwalk that stretches for several kilometres, crossing a strip of sand that is about 300 metres wide.

A highlight that should not be missed on any visit to the region!