Natural salt ponds of Rio Maior

Located at the foothill of Serra de Aire e Candeeiros, 3 km away from the city of Rio Maior, the natural salt ponds of Rio Maior are the only existing inland salt ponds in Portugal. The first reference to these amazing salt ponds date back to 1177.

Surrounded by vineyards and farmland, it is considered as a wonder of nature, since the ocean is only 30 km away. The salt is a vestige of the sea's presence in remote times. The water, about seven times saltier than sea water, comes from a well after passing through a rock salt deposit. The whole area resembles a small village, for the salt ponds are surrounded by charming wooden houses.

The salt ponds of Rio Maior are located 20 km away from the city of Caldas da Rainha.

Location
Google Maps