サンタレンの天然記念物・トップ15

Prehistoric archaeological site. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HugTlSK2fW8 It is a shelter under rock with prehistoric occupations, which was already in use by the end of the Upper Paleolithic (Magdalenian and Solutrenian). Special UNIARQ - Summer Campaigns 2024, Project 4.4 https://www.uniarq.net/uniarqdigitalespecial2024.html

A natural pool with very clean, cool water. There's a sandy area where you can spread out your towel, or grass on the other side. There are picnic tables and a large parking lot. No bars or restrooms. https://de.wikiloc.com/waypoints/jDZINK/praia-fluvial-do-sobreirinho

The (almost) centuries-old Galiana Spring is part of the history and traditions of the older population, who still remember their parents and grandparents collecting water and washing clothes in the tanks, and it continues to gush water (not officially approved for consumption through regular tests) and is sought out by the population. Its waters have gained a reputation for giving vigor and youth, inspiring poets such as João Rodrigues Delgado Júnior: “Indifferent to the world around it, as simple as it is graceful, there stands almost halfway up the hill, peering out at the river, the beautiful Vila de Praia do Ribatejo. Its identity is now unknown, but the friars of the Convent of Loreto used to pass by there to satisfy their thirst. There is certainly not a living soul within many miles of it who does not know or has not heard of the Galiana Spring.”

The Serra de Aire stands as the highest point of the Estremenho Limestone Massif, crowning its 678 metres at the geodesic vertex. Up here, the horizon opens up generously: to the south stretches the Tertiary Tagus Basin, lowered by the Arrife thrust and marked by ochre tones of sand and clay; to the west and southwest rise the Santo António plateau and the Serra dos Candeeiros. And if the sky cooperates, the view also reaches Montejunto, the sea in the distance and, to the north, the highlands of São Mamede up to Ourém and Fátima.

From the top of the lake, amidst the lush greenery, you can see what was once the scene of giants: the Dinosaur Footprints Natural Monument stretches out nearby, revealing the grandeur of times gone by. This is the highest point in the area, ideal for contemplating the vastness of the site. For those who enjoy running, the trails here are pure pleasure — to the north, dirt roads invite you to run at a smooth pace; to the south, the rocky terrain brings a touch of challenge. And the landscape, wide and serene, is the perfect bonus for every step.

It's a shame that the park is not very well maintained. It could be much nicer.

A beautiful garden and an important place in the history of Portugal.

Enjoy peace and quiet and a leisurely hike through the gardens of Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes