Douro International Natural Park | |
Iucn Category: | V |
Location: | Bragança & Guarda districts, Portugal |
Coordinates: | 41.2667°N -6.6397°W |
Area Km2: | 868.35 |
Area Ref: | [1] |
Governing Body: | ICNF |
The Douro International Natural Park (Portuguese: Parque Natural do Douro Internacional) is a natural park in northeast Portugal. With 868sqkm, it is one the largest protected areas in the country. It is located in the municipalities of Miranda do Douro, Mogadouro, Freixo de Espada à Cinta and Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, spanning a lengthy area along the Douro River where it functions as the border between Portugal and Spain (hence "International Douro"). The park also includes the border area of the Águeda River. The park was created to protect the scenic landscape of the region, as well as its flora and fauna.
The Natural Park is characterized by its rugged and dramatic landscapes, featuring deep river valleys, steep cliffs, and rocky outcrops. The park’s topography is the result of millions of years of erosion by the Douro River, creating a stunning and diverse natural environment.[2]