Route 1. Sisalde-Arteixo Coast. Nature

The municipality is bordered to the north by the Atlantic Ocean, with twelve kilometres of abrupt coast outline and numerous beaches. This environment is characterized by systems of oceanic currents combined with deep water coming to the surface, which generates an important biodiversity. This fact, along with the passing of migratory birds makes it possible to find up to 65 species of sea birds, 20 species of cetaceans and 5 species of sea turtles in the area.

Sisalde is a river valley holding rivers such as O Bolaños and Sisalde which, along with the proximity of the sea, help to generate humid and favourable environmental conditions for the development of flora and fauna. The humid ocean climate creates abundant rain in November and December, and frequent fog throughout the year, but it maintains a pleasant temperature in all seasons. The coastal zone is rugged, with steep inlets and headlands that generate a strong contrast between high mountains and deeper valleys.

This route manages to combine the essence of the Atlantic coast with its many beaches and the inland route of the River Sisalde, a riverside walk little touched by man, characterized by the presence of indigenous river bank flora and riparian forests typical of areas untouched and far from man. These riparian woods constitute the formations that line the rivers, and their root systems are indispensable for the conservation and retention of the banks, which are at risk of being swept away by the river. Although they are resistant to water, they are very vulnerable to human activity; and the alteration of the course of the river or its modification might mean they cannot develop and are displaced by less specific introduced species.

The recuperation of this stretch gives us views of Black Alders (Alnus glutinosa), Grey Willows (Salix atrocinerea), Downy Birches (Betula celtiberica) and aquatic plants such as Bullrush (Typha latifolia). These generate great contrasts between light and dark green accompanied by the typical cool air of a river bank.

This environment is ideal for fauna, the presence of Otters (Lutra lutra) stands out. Although they are difficult to see due to their nocturnal habits, it is possible to find tracks and traces on the banks as their presence is considered habitual. The ornithological richness of this area brightens up the route with the presence and the trills of different species. Amongst the Reeds, and in the river bank area, there are species which are in danger of extinction such as the Reed Bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus), and also species that indicate the environmental quality such as the Common Kingfisher (Alcedo athis).

At the Rexedoiro Dam, Meicende and the River Bolaños pond it is possible to see the Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra), Common Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) and Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea), a large-sized wading bird that stands motionless while searching for fish.