THE RIVER

Winding from its spring in Fontes, in the parish of Cortes, all the way to its mouth at Vieira Beach, the River Lis is a key feature of the population of Leiria’s identity, and one of the few Portuguese rivers that flow north, then, as it nears the sea, west.

An influential element in the municipality, this watercourse, which about 40 kilometres long, has inspired poets and prose writers and even a tale of love between the Lis and its tributary, the Lena.

The natural beauty of its spring allows visitors to see the water bubble up satisfyingly at some points of the year.

The river flows through the very centre of the city of Leiria, bordered by green areas and the Polis route, which are popular for both leisure and sports.

Once it’s made it through the urban area, the Lis meanders through alluvial plains called Campos do Lis (the River Lis Fields), extensive farmland irrigated by the watercourse.

Reaching Monte Real, a breathtaking landscape unfurls around its waters, which is best enjoyed while fishing.

In its final stretch, the river goes past Leiria Pine Forest before emptying into the sea at Vieira Beach, in the municipality of Marinha Grande.

LOCATION OF THE SOURCE
> GPS: 39º41’08.14” | N 8º46’17.57”W
> How to get there: http://bit.ly/261jatT