Are the sweets, the flavors and the colors that give the gastronomy of the Aveiro region unique characteristics, which remain in the memory and taste of those who taste it! And Ovar is no exception! As a territory marked by the tradition of fishing and agriculture, many of the typical dishes originated within these agricultural and fishing communities: fish stew, marinated eels, eel soups and stews, rojões à lavrador, cooper-style steak and sardines. .

It is, however, a reference and specialty product in the municipality, the Pão-de-Ló de Ovar. It has the shape of a bread and its dough is light and fluffy. On the upper part it has a very thin moist crust, with a slightly brownish color (the “ló”) surrounded by an edge of creamy dough in an egg-yellow tone, with a characteristic aroma. Traditionally marketed wrapped in “almaço” paper, it is one of the main business cards of traditional Portuguese confectionery.

During your stay you will also have the opportunity to enjoy traditional meals prepared by the Refúgio.

Located between the municipalities of Espinho and Ovar, Barrinha de Esmoriz/ Lagoa de Paramos is a rare medium-sized coastal lagoon, unique of its kind along the northern coast of Portugal.

The requalification of Barrinha de Esmoriz gave rise to a beautiful walkway, with about 6 km, which takes you to discover the charms of this area.

Just 15 min. walking distance from Refúgio, this will be your place of choice for a walk after a meal. The Estanislau Fountain Park was created in 1935 and recently refurbished. A place rich in natural landscapes.

If you like animals you will also have the opportunity to see them up close and make an excellent family outing!

Nearby Zoos:
– Lourosa Zoo, Santa Maria da Feira
– Maia Zoo, Porto

Always wanted to go horseback riding? This is one of the experiences you won’t want to miss! Our Municipality of Ovar is the stage for the best green spaces to enjoy this type of walk, always in contact with Nature.

Take advantage of the network of bike paths in our municipality of Ovar and its connection to the beaches for unforgettable walks, bike rides or even Skateboarding!

The Castle of Santa Maria da Feira is one of the most notable Portuguese military monuments. The diversity of its defensive resources used between the 11th and 16th centuries makes it a unique piece of our military architecture.

It has always represented for the Fair, and for Portugal, a symbol of national identity. Throughout history, it has performed various tasks: it was a fort under Roman occupation, a bulwark against the Norman invasions, a military fort at the time of the Reconquest, the seat of a military region, the great political center that led to Portugal’s independence and housing for royal and noble families.

Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and the one that gave the country its name. Since 1996, its historic center has been classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A city with historical monuments, century-old bridges, parks, and the magnificent Douro River.
Without the typical gastronomy of the region, namely the famous specialties of the region: from Francesinha, through Tripas à Moda do Porto and Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá.

The Passadiços do Paiva are located on the left bank of the Paiva River, in the municipality of Arouca, district of Aveiro. There are 8 km that provide an “untouched” tour, surrounded by landscapes of unparalleled beauty, in an authentic natural sanctuary, next to whitewater descents, quartz crystals and endangered species in Europe. The route extends between the river beaches of Areinho and Espiunca, with Praia do Vau between the two. A journey through biology, geology and archeology that will surely stay in the heart, soul and mind of any nature lover.