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Central
Portugal is often referred to as the 'Green
Heart' of the country. This is possibly because of the
abundance of Pine and Eucalyptus forests and lush green valleys.
The area of Central Portugal
roughly covers the following districts -
Coimbra, Santarem,
Aveiro, Leiria, Portalegre, Castelo Branco, Viseu and Guarda.
The
Rios Zêzere and
Mondego, two of
Portugal's major rivers, start and finish within the boundaries
of the region and help to keep it green even in the height of
summer. The countryside varies dramatically - from the sandy
beaches of the Silver and Lisbon Coast to the rugged peaks of
the Serra da Estrela mountains.
Central Portugal has a diverse mix
of flora and fauna. There are a range of wild flowers, shrub
species and trees including lilies, orchids, curry plant and
the evergreen
Cork Oak
trees. |
