Arcos de Valdevez stands as a centre of excellence for nature-tourism activities, with countless alternative options.
The river that crosses the town and gives it its name is not polluted by discharges from industry or urban areas. Its waters are home to a diversity of aquatic species and birds. Examples include the otters occasionally spotted, or the resident herons. A diverse fauna of fish and birds populates the River Vez.
People’s relationship with the river is a close one. Bridges and footbridges cross it, and the Valeta river beach — one of the cleanest and safest in the country — exemplifies this bond that unites the two banks.
Then there are our mountains. Set within the national park, the Peneda range holds a diversity of landscapes found nowhere else in the world.
The green of the forest, the rocky outcrops and the constant watercourses of rivers, streams and waterfalls define the region. Several species live here, some endangered such as the Iberian wolf, worth preserving, or the roe deer — not to mention the garranos (wild horses) or the ever-present Cachena cattle, which often surprise us along the roads.
This reality can also be experienced up close, through the many trails that cross the whole municipality and offer us sublime landscapes and moments of pure delight.
Carvalha House is committed to these adventures, providing contacts and offering a comforting stay after a long walk or a simple stroll into town. It is located about 100 metres from one of the main eco-trails available: the Sistelo boardwalks, which run to Ponte de Lima along the right bank of the rivers; and very close to the mouth of the Lima’s tributary, the River Vez. Visit our website: www.carvalhahouse.pt, or our Facebook and Instagram page. Follow us! We want to surprise you.
