Choupal National Forest
Coimbra
Choupal National Forest, located in Coimbra, Portugal, is a historic riverside forest stretching along the right bank of the Mondego River for about two kilometers. Originally planted in 1791 under the guidance of Jesuit engineer Father Estêvão Cabral to reduce river siltation and control floods, the forest began as a poplar grove and has since diversified with species such as plane trees, beeches, laurels, and eucalyptus. Covering approximately 80 hectares, it is divided into three zones: the less frequented Budding Zone with a single walking trail called the 'Living Forest'; the Central Zone, which hosts the Nature Conservation Institute headquarters, picnic areas, sports facilities, and cafés; and the Western Zone, featuring a caiman breeding center, aquatic wildlife path, aromatic herb garden, butterfly vivarium, and equestrian trails. The forest serves as a popular recreational area for jogging, cycling, horse riding, and picnics, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage. In 2021, restoration efforts were undertaken to recover areas damaged by storms, including the planting of thousands of native tree species, ensuring the forest remains a safe and vibrant green space for visitors.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Choupal National Forest is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the forest is lush. Visitors are encouraged to explore the various walking and cycling trails and utilize the picnic and sports facilities in the Central Zone. It is advisable to check local updates for any ongoing restoration work or temporary closures. No advance ticket purchase is necessary, and the forest is accessible year-round. Discounts or special access may be available for groups or educational visits through the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests.
Faits intéressants
- •The forest was originally planted to prevent flooding and siltation of the Mondego River in 1791.
- •Choupal spans approximately 80 hectares and borders the river for about 2 kilometers.
- •The forest contains a caiman breeding center and a butterfly vivarium within its Western Zone.
- •A restoration project in 2021 involved the pruning of 700 trees and planting of 5,000 native species.
- •The forest includes a variety of tree species beyond poplars, such as planes, beeches, laurels, and eucalyptus.
Histoire
Choupal National Forest was established in 1791 by Jesuit engineer Father Estêvão Cabral as a flood control and river siltation mitigation project along the Mondego River.
Initially planted with poplar trees, the forest expanded throughout the 19th century with additional native species to stabilize the riverbanks.
Over time, its function evolved from purely environmental management to a recreational and cultural space for Coimbra's residents.
In 2021, the forest underwent a significant restoration project to address damage caused by the storm Leslie, including tree pruning, path improvements, and reforestation with native species.
Guide du lieu
Budding Zone
The eastern section of the forest, featuring the 'Living Forest' walkway. This area is moderately used and offers a quieter experience amid young and maturing trees.
Central Zone
The most visited area, hosting the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests headquarters, picnic park, café/snackbar, tennis courts, and a sporting zone. It serves as the main hub for recreational activities.
Western Zone
This zone includes the Caimão Reproduction Centre, the 'Aquatic Wildlife' walkway, an aromatic and medicinal herb garden, a butterfly vivarium, and equestrian trails serving a nearby equestrian center.
Contact
Téléphone: 239 007 260
