Parque do Choupal

Parque do Choupal is a city park in Torres Vedras, Portugal, set beside the Sizandro River at the foot of a steep hillside. Mature trees, greenery and a small hermitage make it one of the most pleasant places for a walk in town, and after a major redevelopment it has also become a new focal point of urban life.

Where does the name come from, and how did the park begin?

"Choupal" is Portuguese for a poplar grove. The site's origins go back to the late 18th century, when it held the Bosque do Jardim, a dense stand of tall poplars. In the 20th century the area was turned into a park with swings and garden benches, tied to the Agricultural, Livestock and Industrial Exhibition inaugurated on 22 August 1926. In 1975 a sports field and a children's playground were added.

What will I see there?

The park is known for its centuries-old trees, mostly plane trees, poplars and palms. Their broad canopies give welcome shade on hot days. A steep slope frames the whole space, and within the park stands the Ermida de Nossa Senhora do Ameal, a small hermitage with its own surrounding square. Beside the park runs a naturalised stretch of the Sizandro River, which adds to the landscape.

What did the redevelopment involve?

About four decades after the playground and sports field appeared, the park was rebuilt under the Polis Programme. The works covered around 8.7 hectares. They included not only the park itself but also Praça Dr. Alberto Manuel Avelino (the former Páteo Alfazema), the Sizandro riverbanks in the Choupal area, the square around the hermitage, and surrounding roads, roundabouts, signage and the Mentira and São Miguel bridges. The aim was to create a new centre for Torres Vedras and kick off the rehabilitation of the city's northern zone. The design favoured landscape and environmental value and kept the river front natural.

Who is it for?

• Families with children, thanks to the playground.
• Anyone looking for a quiet walk among old trees.
• Photographers who like the mix of greenery, river and a hillside chapel.
• Visitors exploring Torres Vedras who want a break between sights.

The park also hosts the Casa da Juventude, a new facility for the municipality's young people, inaugurated on 24 September.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Parque do Choupal? In Torres Vedras, Portugal, on the Sizandro River, near the northern part of the city centre.

How long does a visit take? A relaxed stroll usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, longer if you settle in with children.

Is there anything for kids? Yes, the park has had a playground since 1975, with a sports field nearby.

Is there a chapel? Yes, the Ermida de Nossa Senhora do Ameal stands within the park.

What trees grow here? Mainly plane trees, poplars and palms, many of them centenary specimens.

Is entry paid? It is a public city park, so fees are not expected, but check current details with the Torres Vedras municipality.