The Greater Coa Valley in a Discovery explores an extensive territory with an essentially flat relief formed by granites, in the continuity of the Iberian Meseta, with altitudes varying between 600 and 900 metres. The baroque and granite outcrops are a constant in the landscape of the Great Coa Valley. The mountain of Mesas, which is the cradle of the Coa river, reaches an altitude of 1250 meters and is influenced by the continentality of the Meseta, contributing to harsh winters and hot summers. The uniformity of the landscape is only interrupted by the deep valley of the Coa river and some of its tributaries.
The Greater Coa Valley crosses the border territory along Guarda district, rich in a patrimonial and landscape heritage, that is unveiled at every step. From the prehistoric vestiges to medieval castles and the walled Historical Villages, which recall a troubled past.
Also the natural and archaeological values of the territory are of relevant importance, as evidenced by the following classifications:
Serra da Malcata Natural Reserve
Site of Community Importance of Serra da Malcata
Coa Valley Special Protected Area
Archaeological Park of the Coa Valley
Biosphere Reserve of the Meseta Ibérica