Description
The National Forest is predominantly Stone Pine over an understorey of Spanish Broom, grading into dune vegetation. The whole area is easily accessible via a network of footpaths and offers good birding, even at the edge of the holiday resort of Montegordo. The area offers a good chance to observe Iberian specialities. Ensfarvet Stær, Hærfugl, Gulirisk, Topmejse, Sorthovedet Sanger, Korttået Træløber and Lille Flagspætte should be easy to find with Iberian Grønspætte requiring greater effort, being more often heard than seen.
Husrødstjert occurs in winter. Ibererblåskade is easiest to find around R. das Comunidades Portuguesas, the road leading north towards the Lidl supermarket. Gråsejler can be found in Montegordo itself in summer (and Klippesvale in winter) while Rødhøne and Toplærke inhabit the dunes.
Details
Access
The Forest lies between Montegordo and Vila Real de Santo Antonio and is within walking distance of either. Numerous trails exist, some suitable for cyclists and there are cyclepaths along the M511 road between the towns. There is parking at Praia Montegordo and Praia de San Antonio, or in either town. Press a P in the map for directions. Cycle hire is widely available in Montegordo. An hour or two's walk from Montegordo should provide most species, especially early in the day.
