
KAYAK: Tour From the cliffs to Lake Medal
Experience Type:
Aventura, Natureza
Organizer:
Explora Douro - Nature Tours
Address:
Rua S. Sebastião, n.º 3
Phone
:
(+351) 934 153 422
E-mail:
Website:
Location
Alfândega da Fé
What will the experience be like?
KAYAK: From the cliffs to Lake Medal
Activity Duration: 2 days
Participants: 8 people (min)
Distance: 15 km / 12 km
Physical Effort: Medium
Price: €95 [price per person]
What you can expect
Over two days we will explore two distinct landscapes of the Sabor Lakes. From the narrowest part of the river, where the valley is deeper and the scenery is rugged, to the large lakes where the slopes soften.
We will sail on Lake Medal, contemplating the Sanctuary of Santo Antão da Barca from various perspectives, pass by the iconic Sardão bridge, see abandoned places and learn about the history of a magical location where the remains of Quinta de Crestelos rest.
These are two days of tranquility in deep communion with history and nature.
Program
DAY 1
9:00h – 15:30h
The meeting point is near the village of São Pedro, where our descent for the day will end. From here, transport is provided to the starting point.
We begin the descent in a wide area of the river, near the first lake, Lago da Foz do Azibo, and paddle over the old Remondes Bridge, now submerged. We enter one of the narrowest stretches of the river, where the valley is deeper and more enclosed, and from where the majestic Cabeço do Santo Cristo stands out.
The river meanders through the valley, and on the slopes, we can contemplate a perfect natural symbiosis between the olive and almond groves, the vast wooded areas, and the steep slopes, which demonstrate the perfect relationship between Man and nature. We are also surprised by small villages and even abandoned places that blend into the landscape and confirm the value of this relationship.
The day ends with a relaxing gathering, enjoying a traditional Transmontane picnic.
Distance – 15 km
Physical effort – Medium
DAY 2
9h- 14h
The meeting point is the same as the previous day. Today, the starting and ending points are the same. We will do a round trip.
We set off rowing towards the Sardão bridge, to pass under its deck and understand the true dimension of this bridge. From here, we continue to the Medal Lake, with the Sanctuary of Santo Antão da Barca always in our view, and we immediately understand why this reservoir is called the Lakes of Sabor.
The last stop is to see what remains of the Crestelos farm and learn all about the history of this magical place, which dates back to the Iron Age.
Back at the Sardão bridge, this time from another perspective, we will have time to contemplate this remarkable work of modern engineering, implemented in total harmony with nature and which, due to its shape and size, provides us with an impressive landscape setting. Every angle captures our attention.
We end the day together enjoying a traditional Transmontane snack.
Distance – 12 km
Physical effort – Medium
Details
The program includes:
Transportation from the meeting point to the starting point of the descent on the first day.
Equipment: Crossing kayak; life jacket, paddle.
Refreshments, such as snacks, during the descent (fruit, energy bar, sandwich or equivalent).
Transmontana-style snack at the end of the descent – Picnic-style meal.
2 guides on the river.
Personal Accident Insurance.
Civil Liability Insurance.
The program does not include:
Transportation to the meeting points.
Other items not described are included.
What to bring:
Swimsuit, clothes and footwear suitable for getting wet.
Water.
Hat and sunscreen.
Snacks (optional).
Change of clothes (optional).
Towel (optional).
Backpack up to 10L (optional).
Important information
Minimum Number – This program will only take place with a minimum of 8 participants.
Reservation – Your spot is only guaranteed after an advance payment of 50% of the total program cost. The reservation is completed upon payment of the remaining 50%.
Kayak Type – Kayaks (1 or 2 seats) are allocated in order of reservation.
Difficulty Level – This activity does not require prior experience in canoeing techniques. However, it requires participants to have experience and a history of physical activity, in particular possessing a level of physical endurance suitable for up to 4 hours of light physical activity. Participants must have minimally developed motor skills in coordination, balance, and agility. Knowing how to swim is mandatory, and you must feel comfortable and at ease in a natural aquatic environment, in open water.
Age – The minimum age to participate in this program is 16 years.
