Alvão Natural Park

Created in 1983, this relatively small area is situated between the councils of Vila Real and Mondim de Basto. It is a major shelter for several species. The reserve covers a 7200 ha mountain area crossed by deep water courses, in the surroundings of one of the most striking Portuguese mountains, Marão mountain range that separates Minho from Trás-os-Montes region. In the park, you can observe two different zones: a higher granite zone around Lamas d’Olo that can reach up to 1000m and present typical mountain high vegetation; and a lower zone made of schist, the place where 450m high Ermelo is located. This later zone is also greener, which is quite typical of Minho region. They are 8km away from each other in a straight line. The transition from one region to the other is made through an impressive bank of Fisgas do Ermelo waterfalls. Lamas d’Olo village is surrounded by oak trees and irrigated fields. This village shows a few good examples of popular architecture buildings with granite walls and stalk covering. Olo river is more of a water stream, flowing to Fisgas waterfalls. It has several channels that irrigate the fields according to a century-old water saving technique, preventing frost to burn the fields. The forest is almost Mediterranean next to Ermelo, one of the most ancient villages in Portugal. This forest includes a mix of oak trees and cork oaks.

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