Ribeira de São Francisco

The mouth of the Ribeira de São Francisco, known locally as Calhau da Roupa, is situated on the southern coast of Santa Maria, on the outskirts of Vila do Porto, next to the port area. This site plays a symbolic role as a gateway for many visitors arriving on the island, but also serves as a haven for migratory birds.

The stream and the adjacent marina offer favourable conditions for migratory birds to rest and feed, especially during seasonal migration periods. This setting makes Calhau da Roupa a site of both scenic and ecological interest, where the interplay between the natural environment and human activity is balanced.