About the Area

Alentejo Adventure
Refresh you Mind, Reinvigorate your Body, Revitalise your Spirit

Out and About:
      Here in the Alentejo region the Serra da Sao de Mamede Natural Park is one of the most gorgeous and unspoilt parts of Portugal. Home to many of Europe's rarest birds and animals, the fascinating flora and fauna is due to the park's unique biodiversity which is a transition between Atlantic and Mediterranean influences. The dramatic countryside varies from wooded granite hills with the contrasting colours of the leaves of cork oaks, chestnut, pine, olive and eucalyptus trees to river valley pastures carpeted by wild flowers.

    Watch many species of European birds! See various eagles, vultures, hawks, kites and owls. There are many year round residents, different storks, egrets, woodpeckers, songbirds and more. There is the possibility of spotting migratory species like the bee-eaters, hoopoe, rollers, swallows etc. not to mention more well known birds but who's numbers are declining such as robin, tits, wren, finches. Wildlife species include Javali (wild boar) Egyptian Mongoose, Genet, Wild Cat, Fox, various lizards such as Gecko and numerous frogs and toads and much more. Bring your binoculars so you can have a closer look.

     The people of the Alentejo are welcoming, friendly and helpful. You may see local folk sitting and chatting with their neighbours by the village fountains, farmers ploughing with mules and shepherds tending their sheep or goats. A way of life still exists here which is almost unchanged for centuries and virtually untouched by the busy world elsewhere.

     Portalegre 15 km away, has all the main facilities you would want: Tourist Information (also to be found at Marvão/Castelo de Vide), Restaurants/ Cafes / Bars, supermarkets, petrol stations, banks, main postoffice, council offices, sports amenities, modern hospital including A & E, medical clinics, pharmacies, vets, dentists, garages, coach station, hairdressers and clothes shops, more traditional shops, a daily indoor market, churches, museums, library, and lots of other services. eg cinema and concert hall.

Activities:
      The Serra da Sao de Mamede Natural Park of the Alto Alentejo is ideal for environmentally low impact pursuits. These include walking, hiking, cycling (touring and mountain bike), canoeing/kayaking, bird watching, photography, painting, fishing, astronomy and so much more which will be enjoyed in this peaceful scenic area. In tranquil landscapes there are lakes and river beaches where 'Wild' swimming is possible as well as outdoor (seasonal) and indoor public pools. Each town in the area has their own good recreation and leisure amenities for those even more energetically inclined. Even to the extent of going paragliding!

The fine 18 hole Marvão golf course and clubhouse (both temporarily closed) is in a sublime setting 15 minutes away. Recently purchased by Turismo Portugal, their investment and management will see this facility reopen in the near future.

Heritage and Culture:
      Here in the Alentejo are some of Portugal’s prettiest quaint whitewashed villages and medieval fortress hilltop towns for you to explore such as Marvão, (a UNESCO world heritage site). Marvel at the magnificent architecture of cathedrals, churches, monasteries and palaces in Portalegre and surrounding areas. A 'must see' are the evocative Roman archaeological remains of Ammaia near Portagem. There are many ancient Neolithic sites around the historic towns of Castelo de Vide and Arronches including the largest Monolith in Europe and wonderful cave paintings.

      You can visit numerous absorbing museums and art galleries, attend concerts featuring folk dancing, Fado, classical and jazz music as well as more contemporary styles. Visit local artisans and watch them making regional handicrafts then make a purchase as a reminder of your stay here.

      There are lively festivals for almost everything; religion, horses, wine, chestnuts, cheese, cakes, flowers, and more, which each lovely town celebrates in its own unique way. You are always more than welcome to join in. Don't forget the camera to capture your special moments!

Gastronomy:
      Take time to appreciate the excellent Alentejo regional dishes on offer in the inviting local restaurants, cafes and bars, usually cooked with fresh locally grown organic ingredients. Try a glass of the traditional liqueurs and spirits produced using fruit from the picturesque vineyards and orchards in the vicinity of Portalegre.

      Following the Rota dos Vinhos (Wine Route) you will get to know more about the internationally renowned though still much underrated wines of the Alentejo. Welcoming adegas enable you to enjoy guided visits, inviting you to sample the superb local wines with the opportunity to buy your favourites after the tastings.

      The Rota das Sabores links places traditionally famed in the Alentejo for their regional speciality foods; such as cheeses, cured meats, smoked sausages and olive oil. Then there is local honey, preserves, delicious cakes and desserts, especially Doce Conventual where the recipes are based on cuisine originating in local convents.

All these hidden gems are within easy reach of the beauty and peace you will find on your Alentejo Adventure with Alegre Travel.

Useful Contacts:
We are thrilled that we received a mention in the publication "Cool Camping Europe." See www.coolcamping.co.uk

Also those wonderful people at Travel Planner uk now feature us as they specialise in travel destinations with an eco theme. Check out www.theTravelPlanner.co.uk for info.

More help in planning your holiday can be obtained by visiting those busy guys at Pure Portugal www.pureportugalholidays.com