Top 8 Lakes around Ovar
Best lakes around Ovar are primarily defined by the extensive Ria de Aveiro, often referred to as the Canal de Ovar in its northern section. This coastal lagoon system provides a rich aquatic environment with significant environmental and landscape value. The region also features the Lagoa de Paramos, part of the Barrinha de Esmoriz Nature Reserve. These areas offer diverse opportunities for nature appreciation and water-based recreation.
Best lakes around Ovar
- The most popular lakes is Torreira, Ria de Aveiro…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Ovar Canal 🌊 Aveiro Lagoon
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EV1 on the Ria de Aveiro
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Barrinha de Esmoriz Nature Reserve
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Wonderful circuit; to drive well with children. With beach access.
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Areinho Beach
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Torreira, Ria de Aveiro 🌊 CicloRia EuroVelo 1
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Tips from the Community
The Ria de Aveiro, in Portugal, is an estuary rich in biodiversity. This aquatic ecosystem is famous for its meandering canals, salt marshes and diverse fauna. This point, specifically, is on EN 327, which runs parallel to the Ria for long kilometers, offering incredible views.
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Areinho River Beach, located on the Douro River, offers views of Porto, ample parking, quality restaurants and peaceful green space with areas for family gatherings.
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a beautiful, quiet bike route always with a view of the Ovar Canal, from time to time there are flamingos in the shallow water...
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Go there when the sun is about to set, the view is amazing and the sunset is beautiful as it lines up perfectly with the river
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Nicely maintained beach on the lagoon, with clean soft sand and no waves, and water that's typically a tad warmer than the Atlantic Ocean on the opposite side of the the sandy peninsula. A popular local restaurant sits on the north end of the beach, while during the summer season a more upscale airy restaurant occupies the small round island just off the beach, with a wide wooden footbridge and shady seating under trees and a wrap-around terrace deck that remains open even the rest of the year.
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The entire narrow peninsula separating the lagoon from the ocean is formed by a sand bank deposited off the prehistoric coastline that eventually closed in and filled with water. It is hugged by a wide road with a good shoulder for biking, all the way from the Sao Jacinto ferryboat dock at the southern tip, to Ovar in the north, with two small beach towns in between, worth a detour. To keep it straight, this section highlights the longest part, from the southern tip to Torreira. The middle section goes from Torreira to the bridge that crosses the lagoon to th east, and the norther section goes from the bridge to Ovar, where the peninsula ends. The Ria (lagoon) continues as a natural canal parallel to the coast for another 50 kilometer or so to the north.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of 'lakes' can I expect to find around Ovar?
The Ovar region is primarily characterized by its connection to the Ria de Aveiro, often referred to as the Canal de Ovar or Ria de Ovar in its northern section. This is a vast coastal lagoon system, not traditional inland lakes. Additionally, you'll find the Lagoa de Paramos, which is part of the Barrinha de Esmoriz Nature Reserve, another significant brackish water lagoon.
What are the best areas for nature and birdwatching near Ovar?
Both the Ria de Aveiro and the Barrinha de Esmoriz Nature Reserve are excellent for nature observation. The Ria de Aveiro is a Special Protection Zone for Birds (ZPE), offering diverse fauna and opportunities for birdwatching. The Barrinha de Esmoriz is also an Important Area for the Preservation of Birds, known for species like Charadrius alexandrinus and various cane passerines, especially during migratory seasons.
Are there good cycling routes around the lakes in Ovar?
Yes, the region is very popular for cycling. The CicloRia EuroVelo 1 runs along the protected estuary, offering dedicated paths and shared road sections with incredible views of the Ria de Aveiro. You can find more cycling routes, including the 'Grande Rota da Ria de Aveiro - Ovar Loop', in the Cycling around Ovar guide.
What water sports can I do in the Ria de Aveiro?
The extensive Ria de Aveiro provides ideal conditions for a variety of water sports. You can enjoy rowing, sailing, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Simple boat trips, including those on traditional *moliceiro* boats, are also popular ways to explore the lagoon.
Are there family-friendly spots to visit near the water in Ovar?
Absolutely. Many areas are suitable for families. The Barrinha de Esmoriz Nature Reserve features wooden walkways that are great for walks with children and offer beach access. The Areinho Beach, located on the lagoon, is also family-friendly with clean, soft sand and calm water.
Can I go swimming in the waters around Ovar?
Yes, you can. The Areinho Beach, situated on the lagoon, is a pleasant spot for swimming. It's known for its clean, soft sand, lack of waves, and water that is typically a bit warmer than the Atlantic Ocean.
Are there walking or hiking trails near the lagoons?
Yes, there are several options for walking. The Barrinha de Esmoriz Nature Reserve has wooden walkways perfect for exploring the lagoon's surroundings. Additionally, the Ria de Aveiro offers scenic routes like the 5.5 km 'Cais do Carregal - Cais da Tijosa' and the 2 km 'Cais da Ribeira - Foz do Cáster'. For more extensive options, check out the Running Trails around Ovar guide, which includes routes like 'Ovar Town Centre – Praia do Furadouro loop'.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Ovar?
The region is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly good for birdwatching, especially at the Barrinha de Esmoriz Nature Reserve due to migratory birds. Summer is ideal for water sports and enjoying the beaches, with the Areinho Beach having restaurants open during this season. Generally, pleasant weather for outdoor activities can be expected from spring through early autumn.
Are there places to eat or drink near the lagoons?
Yes, there are. The Areinho Beach has a popular local restaurant on its north end, and during the summer, a more upscale restaurant operates on a small island just off the beach. Various wharves along the Ria de Aveiro also offer picturesque spots that may have nearby establishments.
What makes the Ovar Canal (Ria de Aveiro) unique?
The Ovar Canal is the northern section of the Ria de Aveiro, a shallow coastal lagoon about 25 kilometers long. It's considered a unique space in Portugal and Europe due to its significant environmental and landscape qualities. It's rich in biodiversity, supports various water activities, and offers stunning views, especially along roads like EN 327.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints of the Ria de Aveiro?
You can find incredible views along roads like EN 327, which runs parallel to the Ria for many kilometers. The EV1 on the Ria de Aveiro highlight specifically mentions this road as offering excellent vistas. Many wharves (cais) such as Cais do Carregal, Cais da Pedra, and Cais da Ribeira also provide picturesque access points and views.
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