Costa Nova, in Ílhavo, is one of the most picturesque regions in the country. Get to know ten great local attractions that you should visit as soon as you can.
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THE Costa Nova, in Ílhavo, is particularly known for its houses with colored stripes that extend in front of the estuary of Aveiro. This destination is especially popular due to its proximity to some beaches. In addition, the gastronomy is great, with many fish and seafood restaurants.
The name of this locality – Costa Nova do Prado – appeared at the beginning of the 19th century and referred to a new fishing village. The ter “Prado” refers to a green area that existed nearby.
Known names such as Eça de Queirós, Guerra Junqueiro or Oliveira Martins passed through this region. In addition to being a seaside resort, this area was always marked by a lot of animation and attractions that attracted many tourists and visitors.
9 places you must visit in Costa Nova do Prado
The mythical houses of Costa Nova are an obligatory place to visit. They started out as haylofts, to store fishing materials and implements for the fishermen who went out to sea from there. Afterwards, they also served as sardine salting warehouses. Finally, they took on the current form of colored houses, built with planks horizontally, using mainly the color red. Currently, they serve as accommodation for those who want to rest and spend a pleasant vacation.
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Vagueira and Mira beaches
Nearby, there are two beaches – Vidigueira and Mira – where you can watch Xávega art. This is an ancient art of fishing, done by hand and in which the fishing nets are pulled by teams of oxen. An ancient practice that you can witness in these two places, making a kind of trip back in time.
As already mentioned, Costa Nova is also known for its good fish and seafood. For that reason, going to the Fish Market is an excellent program, as there you can find and buy the freshest fish and shellfish from both the estuary and the sea.
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Costa Nova is also known for its areas that invite you to stroll, such as this walkway/bike path, where you can walk, run or cycle, with the Aveiro estuary as your company. As you walk this route, observe Ponte da Barra, Praia da Barra and Praia da Vagueira.
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Barra and Vagueira beaches
In addition to Xávega art, there are several water sports that you can practice there, such as surfing, canoeing, kitesurfing, among others.
Typical of this destination is the tripe, an example of the local sweets, made with American wafers and with different fillings. As it is a traditional delicacy in this area, it is possible to find it for sale in several kiosks, especially those along the waterfront.
There are several companies that offer boat trips on the estuary and at sea. This is always a good opportunity to get to know the locality, admire some of its charms and attractions and discover stunning landscapes. An activity not to be missed.
Praia da Barra, already mentioned on this list, has yet another attraction, in addition to its sand and the sunbathing it provides. In it stands the tallest Portuguese lighthouse. This achievement is not only worthy of note and a closer look, but also a photograph that, if well taken, can make an excellent holiday postcard to send to the family.
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Ílhavo Maritime Museum
All regions have their own local museums that are important to visit and get to know because, basically, they give us more information about the area we are in. In this case, the Maritime Museum allows you to learn more about the arts of the sea, the Vouga, the pleasure and leisure boat and the only Portuguese class of sailing.