THE WALKWAYS
Paiva Walkways are located on the left bank of the Paiva River, in Arouca municipality, Aveiro, Portugal. They are 8 km that provide a walk “untouched”, surrounded by unique beauty of landscapes, in an authentic natural sanctuary along the brave waters downhills, quartz crystals and endangered species in Europe. The route extends from the river beaches of Areinho and Espiunca, lying between them, the Vau beach. A journey through biology, geology and archeology that will remain, of course, in heart, soul and in mind of any nature lover.
ROUTE
Departure: Areinho / Espiunca
Distance to Cover: 8700m (linear)
Average Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Hard
Unevenness: Steep
Type of Route: Small Route
Scope: Sports, Culture, Environment and Landscape
Advised Season: All the Year
Passage through Geosites: Garganta do Paiva (G36); Cascata das Aguieiras (G35); Praia Fluvial do Vau (G30); Gola do Salto(G31); Falha de Espiunca (G32)
Management and Maintenance: Municipality of Arouca
RULES AND CONDUCT
Walk in groupWalk on the walkway between sunrise and sunset
Walk always in the walkway
Wear appropriate clothing and footwear
Observe the fauna from the distance and do not damage the flora
Do not leave trash in the nature
Respect private propertyIt is forbidden to input music players
It is forbidden the entry of pramsIt is forbidden the entry of animals
Avoid making noises and attitudes that disturb the local peace
Do not collect plants or rock samples
Children should always be accompanied by adultsIf you find obstacles or landslides, do not go forward.
Come back by the same route
No smoking, making bonfires, camping or adventure sportsIt is forbidden to circulate by bicycle, motorcycle or other motor vehicles
Respect and obey official guidelines and information
OBSERVATIONS AND ADVICE
The route towards Areinho – Espiunca is the least demanding, at the physical level
In case of round trip, it is recommended to start the route in Espiunca
The walkway allows access to three river beaches where you can refresh yourself
Carry always water with you and a backpack to bring the trash
Do not use sandals or beach shoes
At this moment the transfer service from one end to the other can be done by taxi
For your safety there are SOS phones, along the routeIn periods of intense sun, it is recommended the use of sunscreen
There are many shaded areas along the route
You do not have to go, obligatorily, through the suspension bridge to make the route
For interpreted guided tours, you should contact specialized companies or the Arouca Geopark
At the ends of the walkways there are cafes serving quick meals
There are parking areas at both ends of the walkways (Espiunca and Areinho)
HOW TO ARRIVE
GPS COORDINATES
Espiunca
40°59’34.67″N 8°12’41.19″W
Areinho
40°57’9.68″N 8°10’33.05″W
The “Passadiços do Paiva” (Paiva Walkways) are located on the left bank of the Paiva River, in the municipality of Arouca, district of Aveiro, Portugal. The accesses are made by their ends and the route can start in Espiunca or in Areinho.
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