Hidden lake in southern Portugal boasts scenery akin to Lake Como
Nestled in the heart of the Alentejo region, Lake Alqueva has transformed a once barren landscape into a small aquatic paradise. This monumental artificial lake, standing at 96 meters high, is the largest in Western Europe and offers an abundance of activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the most appealing aspects of Lake Alqueva is its outdoor activities and hiking opportunities. Praia Fluvial de Alqueva, the lake's river beach, provides a perfect spot for swimming, canoeing, water skiing, and fishing. The area boasts picnic areas and stunning natural surroundings, with hills and mountains offering hiking trails that provide panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
The countryside around Lake Alqueva is a haven for walkers and ramblers, with rolling hills, cork forests, olive groves, and vineyards. The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including Egyptian mongooses and numerous bird species.
For those seeking a taste of history, a visit to the hilltop village of Monsaraz is a must. Known for its timeless charm, Monsaraz offers an out-of-time stroll with cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and artisan workshops. The 16th-century Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Lagoa and the castle walls provide a glimpse into the village's rich history, while the sweeping views of the lake and Alentejo plains offer a breathtaking backdrop.
The village experience is further enhanced by the medieval atmosphere and scenic cafés, particularly beautiful during sunset when the golden light spills over the landscape.
For wine lovers, nearby Herdade do Esporão is one of Portugal’s most prestigious wine estates. Visitors can take private tours of the winery, vineyards, and olive oil press, along with tastings of reserve wines paired with local delicacies. The Alentejo region is renowned for its high-quality wine production, and visiting estates provides insight into traditional wine-making amid beautiful vineyard landscapes.
Lake Alqueva is part of a certified Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best places in Europe for stargazing. The clear, dark skies over the lake provide spectacular views of stars and constellations without light pollution, ideal for nighttime or overnight stays.
These activities together showcase the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic Alentejo lifestyle you can experience around Lake Alqueva. A few boutique hotels have opened discreetly, blending with the greenery, offering visitors a comfortable base from which to explore this enchanting region.
While enjoying the outdoor activities at Praia Fluvial de Alqueva, one might also consider a relaxing retreat at a home-and-garden styled boutique hotel for a taste of the local lifestyle. Afterward, an excursion to Herdade do Esporão, a renowned winery in the area, offers an insight into the region's traditional wine-making practices and a taste of its prestigious wine reserves. To conclude a journey around Lake Alqueva, potential visitors may choose to indulge in the stargazing opportunities in this certified Dark Sky Reserve, taking in the unspoiled views of the night sky over the lake.
