Marinhas brings together a range of experiences for a trip: coastal trails, insights into architecture and history, and nature and environmental topics. The Ecovia do Litoral Norte provides access to beaches; in addition, a separate hiking trail runs through Marinhas and along the fossil cliff coast.

Coastal Trails and Beaches

The Marinhas–Esposende section of the Ecovia do Litoral Norte runs as far as Rio de Moinhos in Marinhas and provides access to the beaches of Suave Mar, Cepães and Rio de Moinhos. PR5 – Pela Arriba Fóssil offers a different kind of route: this 12-kilometre linear hiking trail runs through Marinhas and along the fossil cliff coast. It is marked in some sections; check the current trail markings before setting out.

The coastal locations differ in the landscape features described. Praia de Suave Mar lies within Parque Natural do Litoral Norte and has natural dunes and vegetation typical of these habitats. Praia de Cepães is set among dunes in an urban environment and can be reached by roads and boardwalks. Praia de Rio de Moinhos has walking paths and opportunities for sport fishing; it can also be reached via the Ecovia.

Windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, sport fishing and hiking trails are listed as sports and leisure activities at Suave Mar; a surf school is also listed there. Windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, sport fishing and hiking trails are listed at Cepães. The availability of individual activities may vary by season. Those choosing between a longer linear hike and routes with access to the beaches will find two clearly distinct options in PR5 and the Ecovia.

Architecture and Historical Traces

Casa das Marinhas was built between 1954 and 1957 as Viana de Lima’s private residence. It is open to the public by prior appointment. Plan your visit by arranging an appointment in advance.

Archaeological remains also offer insight into the history of the area. The Roman remains of Rio de Moinhos in Marinhas include ceramic objects from amphorae and other Roman-period vessels found on the beach. The medieval tombs of Marinhas are evidence of Christian burial practices that were widespread in the region during and beyond the Reconquista. The old mills in Marinhas are cylindrical granite buildings on the hillside.

Environmental Education and the Coastal Way to Santiago

The Centro de Educação Ambiental is located in Monte Marinhas. Its permanent exhibition, “Ambiente Interativo,” covers water, waste, biodiversity, energy, sustainable mobility and climate change. Outside, the centre’s biodiversity trail features native Portuguese forest species as well as aromatic and medicinal plants. Advance booking is required for guided tours of the exhibition, regardless of group size.

Another point of interest for travellers on the coastal route to Santiago de Compostela is the Albergue de São Miguel de Marinhas, which is on the Caminho Português da Costa. Local attractions thus range from coastal trails and beaches to environmental education, architectural history and the pilgrimage route; the respective visiting requirements can be planned in advance.

Discover more destinations: Fonte Boa, Esposende, Apúlia, Fao, Palmeira De Faro.

Return to the main travel overview: Esposende.