Natur-Z

Natur-Z is a small kayak outfitter from Tomar, set up by Pedro Estrela, who has paddled since childhood and is still a federated canoeist, and it is licensed as a tourist activity company. It runs accompanied descents on three rivers of the Médio Tejo region, the Tagus, the Zêzere and the Nabão, as well as a flat-water outing on the Castelo do Bode reservoir.

The classic route starts at the river beach of Constância and follows the Tagus for 6 kilometres to Almourol Castle, on its rocky islet; it is calm, has sandy beaches for stops and suits beginners and families with young children. It can be extended to Vila Nova da Barquinha, for 10 kilometres in all. On the Zêzere, a 9-kilometre run from below the Castelo do Bode dam to Constância has clear water and a few small rapids, and the flow changes with releases from the dam, so it is meant for older children and adults in reasonable shape. The Nabão sections between the Agroal spring and Tomar cross a narrow, wooded valley with weirs and small rapids, and are run only when the water level and the state of the river allow. At Aldeia do Mato, a 6-kilometre outing explores the islands of the reservoir from the river beach.

The paddle is the only means of propulsion, and groups are accompanied on the water by monitors who are or have been canoeists themselves. Each descent includes kayak, paddle and life jacket, accident insurance, water and a snack, and transport of the participants back to the starting point. Small parties are usually added to groups that are already booked, so it is necessary to reserve well ahead. Constância, the most common meeting point, lies where the Zêzere joins the Tagus, a short drive from Tomar, Abrantes and Entroncamento.