What if I told you the Site of Community Importance Rio Paiva is considered one of Europe’s least polluted rivers? It is true. The Rio Paiva rises in the Serra de Leomil. It specifically starts in the parish of Pêra Velha. This parish belongs to the municipality of Moimenta da Beira. The river flows into the Douro in Castelo de Paiva.
The Rio Paiva flows through the parish of Fornos on its left bank. On the right bank it flows through the parish of Souselo. This parish is in Cinfães. The Rio Paiva is part of the Natura 2000 Network. It is classified as a Site of Community Importance.
But the Rio Paiva faces threats. Acacia invasions and eucalyptus plantations pose a risk. Small hydroelectric projects also threaten the river. Extraction of aggregates impacts the Rio Paiva. Fires and dam construction are further concerns. Even fish farms impact this important site.
Urban-tourist expansion worries defense associations. The Passadiços do Paiva in Arouca have increased visitors. This wooden walkway stretches 8.7 kilometers. Another 12 kilometers are planned. The Passadiços do Paiva are near Porto. They offer an escape into nature.
These walkways were built along the Rio Paiva’s left bank. They sit within the Douro River’s hydrographic basin. The area is known as the Garganta do Paiva. It is a key part of the Arouca Geopark. In 2016 the Passadiços do Paiva won an award. It was named Europe’s most innovative tourism project. It received this honor at the World Travel Awards.
The Rio Paiva’s watershed has high conservation value. The municipality of Arouca is a main crossing point. The Passadiços allow you to momentarily leave city life. You can enter a film-like scenario.
The S.O.S. Rio Paiva Association defends the Paiva Valley. This non-governmental organization promotes socio-cultural values. It also works for environmental preservation. They encourage sustainable ecological practices. They conserve historical, cultural, and environmental heritage. The association has over 500 members. These members come from ten municipalities along the Rio Paiva.