Dunas de Sao Jacinto nature reserve in Portugal is on thin peninsula separating ocean from the main land. It is part of Rio Aveiro, rich in diverse fauna and flora. The Dunas de Sao Jacinto is protected area. You can only visit it during opening hours of the visitor center as you need to sign in, so you will need to check the opening hours prior to your visit. You need to stay on marked trails only and you can not visit the beach.
GETTING THERE
Lisbon – 300km (3h 20min)
Porto – 65km (1h 20min)
Coimbra – 105km (1h
30min)
By car: Park at the free parking lot opposite from the visitor centre
By public transport: Not certain if there is public transport nearby
On bike: It is possible to cycle to the park if you are nearby in the area, also from Aveiro with the use of ferry. Please note that there is no bike path and sometimes the shoulder is minimal, so take safety in consideration
Camper/ Van overnight stay: I have stayed at Camping Torreira Park. In low season 19 EUR with ASCI card including electricity and free hot showers. The campsite is 12km away, possible by bike. More info HERE
Alternatively stay for free at parking opposite from the visitor centre or at the Torreira beach (north) parking.
TRAIL NAVIGATION
Choose from two trails, longer (red) and shorter (green) one, the trail is well marked by poles with coloured arrows. Walk the trail clockwise only. You do not need additional navigation, but take picture of the map at the start. Do not walk away from the main trail.
TRAIL DETAILS
Enjoy easy trail through the woods with some small roots and pine needles on the path. Expect some sandy parts, short planks in the forrest and long plank walk towards the beach. The entire trail, with exception the plank walk toward beach, is on very narrow path, so it is not ideal for talking with friends. It is relatively flat. Take care on the planks as they can be slippery if they are wet. There are 3 highlight points – small lake with birdwatch house (also on the short route), the beach viewpoint and another lake birdwatch house.
More about this trail HERE
Pro tip: bring mosquito repellent
OTHER DETAILS
Tree coverage: Good tree coverage, plenty of shade even on hot days.
Geocaching: There are 3 geocaches at each highlight point on the long trail, no Adventure lab.
Dogs: It is possible to do the trail with dog, but it must be leashed.
Shoes recommendation: Can be completed in any sports shoes.
Trail running: Perfect for beginner trail runners due to its varied terrain. Relatively flat but you need to tackle wavy trails, uneven forrest trail, sand, planks. Only recommended to run when it is not busy such in low season or during week.
FACILITIES
Plan well ahead as there are no facilities on the trail and limited supplies in the area.
Restrooms: Restrooms at the visitor centre
Restaurants: Portuguese restaurant on the other side of the road from the visitor center
Shops: Not nearby, visit Sao Jacinto, Aveiro or Torreira
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I completed this hike in December 2024 on Wednesday, enjoying sunny day, around 16 degrees. I did not meet anyone on the trail. Expect crowds during weekends, especially during summer when the campsites in the area are open.
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