Alvarenga (Arouca)

Alvarenga is a civil parish (freguesia) in the municipality of Arouca, Portugal. It is located in the Aveiro District, in the Norte Region. The parish is situated in a mountainous area known for its natural beauty and rural character.

Alvarenga is notable for being the location of the Paiva Walkways (Passadiços do Paiva), a popular tourist attraction that offers hiking trails along the Paiva River, providing scenic views of the river valley and surrounding landscape. These walkways have contributed significantly to the local economy and increased tourism to the region.

Historically, Alvarenga has been a predominantly agricultural area, with the local economy based on farming and livestock. More recently, tourism has become an increasingly important economic driver.

The parish is administered by a Junta de Freguesia (Parish Council), responsible for local governance and the provision of services to the community.

Alvarenga is a part of the broader Arouca Geopark, recognized by UNESCO for its geological heritage and commitment to sustainable development.