The second movement of Beethoven's Pastoral Symphony is "Andante molto mosso", portraying a scene by the lake. It begins with the strings playing a motif that imitates flowing water.
Water is energy and also a provider of inner peace. From the coastline to the inland across diversified landscapes and habitats, inhabited by a profusion of fascinating botanical and animal species. These belvederes are the perfect gateway to a more peaceful place. Where we can truly unplug and enjoy the offline luxury. By the water. Pateira de Fermentelos is one of those magical spots.
Pateira de Fermentelos is known as the enchanted lagoon or the sleeping lagoon, located in Águeda, half an hour away from Aveiro. It stands out as one of the greatest natural lagoons in the Iberian Peninsula, owner of a deeply rich fauna and flora. It covers an area of variable surface and depth, according to the season of the year, in a maximum of 5 sq km along the councils of Águeda, Aveiro and Oliveira do Bairro, before the confluence of Cértima River with Águeda River.
The name "pateira" evokes the Portuguese word "pato", meaning duck, and hence the abundance of ducks so typical of the Vouga region and of its tributary Rivers.Pateira de Fermentelos owns a deeply diversified fauna and flora. In the wetland area - included in the Natura 2000 Network - which encompasses open waters and the flooded vegetation on the banks and lines, dominate the habitats of reed (Phragmites communis), along with Tabúa (Typha sp.) and Bunho (Scirpus lacustris). A fact less known is that in the surrounding areas of the Lagoon there are carnivorous plants, such as Pinguicula lusitanica!
Inhabited by more than 150 bird species, this breath-taking lagoon is a genuine paradise for bird-watching aficionados. The main bird species being: the little bitern (Ixobrychus minutus), the purple heron (Ardea purpurea), the western Marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus), the black kite (Milvus migrans) and the colourful common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis).
Owner of an unusual poetical beauty, Pateira de Fermentelos is also a Mecca for photography fans! Offering several romantic spots, this enchanted lagoon can be a great spot for enjoying soul-soothing days, away from the stress of everyday life!