A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Estarreja: Discover this enchanting corner of Portugal

Estarreja is a small town located in Central Portugal, in the Aveiro region. Although it may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in the country, Estarreja offers visitors a genuine and peaceful experience.

The charm of Estarreja

One of Estarreja's main attractions is its beautiful natural setting. The town is surrounded by the Vouga River and features extensive green areas and parks, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. Additionally, Estarreja is close to the Natural Reserve of São Jacinto Dunes, a paradise for birdwatchers and beach strolls.

Another highlight of Estarreja is its architecture. The historic center of the town is full of charm, with cobblestone streets and traditional buildings. The Main Church of Estarreja, built in the 18th century, is one of the city's main landmarks and worth a visit. You can also explore the Municipal Museum of Estarreja, which houses an interesting collection of art and historical objects.

Activities and events

If you visit Estarreja, don't miss the town's Carnival. This event, held every year in February, is one of the oldest and most traditional in Portugal. During the Carnival, the streets of Estarreja come alive with colorful parades and festivities, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere.

Additionally, Estarreja offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. You can take a bike ride along the trails surrounding the town, go hiking in the nearby forests, or even practice water sports on the Vouga River.

Local cuisine

The local gastronomy is another strong point of Estarreja. Here you can savor traditional Portuguese dishes such as grilled codfish or seafood rice. Don't leave without trying the famous "ovos moles" from Aveiro, typical sweets of the region that are a true delight.

Gastronomic Products of Estarreja

• Ovos Moles

  Ovos moles are one of the most traditional gastronomic products of Estarreja. They are sweets made from egg yolk and sugar, with a soft texture and a sweet and delicate flavor. Ovos moles are presented on small paper wafers and are perfect to enjoy as a dessert or as an accompaniment to coffee.

• Escabret Fish

  Escabret fish is another typical dish of Estarreja. It consists of fresh anguilas cooked in a escabeche sauce made with vinegar, olive oil, onion, garlic, and spices. The result is a tasty dish with a tangy touch that perfectly combines with the flavor of the anguilas. Escabret fish are usually served as a tapa or main course accompanied by fried potatoes.

• Lamprey Rice

  Lamprey rice is a traditional dish from the Estarreja region. It is a creamy rice cooked with lamprey, a river fish resembling an eel. The rice is cooked with lamprey and added fish broth, onion, garlic, and spices. The result is a flavorful dish with a creamy texture, perfect for rice lovers and those who enjoy intense flavors.

Sports Activities in Estarreja, Portugal

Cycling

Estarreja is known for its cycling routes, especially along the Ria de Aveiro. Tourists can rent bicycles and enjoy a peaceful walk while admiring the natural beauty of the region.

Rowing

The Antuã River, which crosses Estarreja, is a popular spot for rowing. Tourists can rent a boat and spend a peaceful day rowing along the river, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the landscape.

Football

As in all of Portugal, football is a very popular sport in Estarreja. Tourists can join locals for a friendly match at one of the many football fields in the city.

Hiking

The BioRia, a network of trails that crosses the wetlands of Estarreja, is a perfect spot for hiking enthusiasts. The trails offer stunning views of the local flora and fauna, including a wide variety of birds.

Surf

Surf

Although Estarreja is not directly on the coast, it is a short drive from some of Portugal's best surf beaches. Tourists can rent a board and catch waves, or even take lessons if they are beginners.

Places near Estarreja (Portugal)

If you're in Estarreja and want to explore a bit more, here are some cities and towns nearby offering unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Aveiro, known as the "Venice of Portugal", enchants with its canals and colorful houses. Apart from its architectural charm, this city offers a delicious gastronomy based on fresh fish and seafood. Don't miss the famous "ovos moles"!

Ilhavo, a charming tourist destination in Portugal, will surprise you with its rich maritime history and delicious gastronomy. Enjoy its beautiful beaches, visit the Maritime Museum and taste the fresh fish dishes at local restaurants. An unforgettable experience awaits you in Ílhavo!