A6

Turfeira da Fraguinha

Description

Within the campsite of Fraguinha, is one of the most well-preserved peat bog places south of the Douro. The peat bog ecosystems are a relic of the time of glaciers which occurred some 10,000 years ago, having been in decline gradually, and today are confined to small shelters high in the mountains. They are, therefore, very important, so much as just in a few square meters you have unique species that are not found anywhere else. The basis of these ecosystems are the oligotrophic waters (nutrient poor) from the top of the mountains that determine a unique flora and fauna where the peat moss, which is the living being with greater capacity forabsorption of water, is the dominant element and originates the peat, soil almost 100% organic.

Natural Patrimony

The biodiversity of this peat land is very impressive, with a very important population of cyclamen-flowered daffodil, some march gentians, cross-leaved heath (very rare in Gralheira mountain chain and nonexistent in Montemuro), matgrass, iberian peat bog veronica, rushes and various species of sedge exclusive of the peat bogs.In Ribeira Fria we find very interesting rupicolous species, such as the rocky daisy, the fritillary flower and angel’s tears. As for the fauna concerns this is territory of the iberian wolf and roe deer, witnesses of a wild Portugal that strives to survive.

Cultural Patrimony

The terraces of Póvoa das Leiras are irrigated by an old levada (water flume) about 3 km long that has origin at Fraguinha campsite, causing one of the most beautiful landscapes in Arada, sculpting the strand overlooking the village in absolute perfect green slopes.

Localization

Aldeia da Coelheira

Technical information

  • Level of Dificulty Low
  • Type of Route Linear
  • Access Pedestrian Access, Car