A family boating holiday in Alqueva, in Portugal's Alentejo region
Escape the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist destinations and discover the hidden gem of Alqueva in the Alentejo region of Portugal. Nestled amid rolling hills and vast landscapes, Alqueva is the perfect family-friendly destination, offering a unique blend of tranquility, stunning weather, and a plethora of activities for all ages. In this article, we'll explore what makes Alqueva an ideal choice for families seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
A little history
Alqueva is known for its impressive reservoir, the largest artificial lake in Europe (250km²). The lake was created when the region was flooded to create electricity (through a dam) for the whole region. The Alentejo is one of the driest regions of Portugal so this was seen as a necessity. Several villages were flooded and the lake’s floor is full of vestiges, trees and more. The kids were blown away at the idea of swimming above all this.
So what better way to discover Alqueva and its region than through a boating holiday?
Our experience: 5 days on a houseboat
Our family's adventure in Alqueva began with the unique experience of renting a houseboat. Floating on the waters of the lake, we were treated to stunning sunsets, tranquil mornings, and the joy of exploring hidden corners accessible only by boat. We spent 4 days on the water in late April and barely saw another soul. We had the moorings all to ourselves and were able to swim all alone. The houseboat provided a cozy and comfortable base for our family, allowing us to create cherished memories surrounded by the beauty of Alqueva. We rented our boat through Nicols. They provided everything we needed, explained how to work the boat (no license needed). It was all very straightforward. Just make sure you stock up on groceries before as many of the villages around the lake are quite remote.
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Endless activities for families:
Boating and water adventures: Experience the magic of Alqueva by renting a houseboat for an immersive stay on the tranquil waters. Spend lazy afternoons cruising the lake, discovering secluded coves, and enjoying quality family time amidst breathtaking scenery. If you don’t have much time, you can also go on a day trip on the lake. But it would be a shame, in my experience, not spend longer there.
Stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve: Alqueva is home to one of the world's first Dark Sky Reserves, making it a haven for stargazers. Families can marvel at the celestial beauty during organised stargazing tours, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Exploring medieval villages: Venture into nearby medieval villages like Monsaraz or Mourão, where cobblestone streets and historic architecture transport you back in time. Engage in family-friendly activities, such as exploring ancient castles and trying local delicacies (carne de porco à alentejana is the local traditional dish).
4. Nature trails and outdoor adventures: Alentejo boasts an array of nature trails and outdoor activities suitable for families. Hiking and biking trails around the lake provide opportunities for exploration and appreciation of the region's biodiversity if you don’t want to head to the water. As we were on a boat, we walked to every little village from the mooring places (sometimes a few kilometers away). That was a great little workout.
5. Beach time: There are several beaches around the lake. We loved Alqueva beach. A large (man-made) sandy beach with shallow water. A restaurant with good food and a mooring just a few meters away. Perfect for a whole day of fun.
My personal highlight:
The village of Luz. It is the only village that was rebuilt in a different place in 2002 when the reservoir was created. It is tiny. Don’t expect amenities. There is a cafe, a tiny store and not much else. Most of the homes appeared empty, obviously people preferred not to live in this made-up village and moved away altogether. Its feel and atmosphere felt like that of an abandoned village in a far away country a century ago. Kids thought it looked like a village in a video game! You can read more about its history here.
From the boat’s mooring place, it is a very easy walk to the village, making it a great stop for a few hours. We even slept there as it was more sheltered from the wind.
If you stop in Luz, you have to go to Padaria Grilos. The “rotten cake” (bolo pobre) with oil and cinammon is amazing! One of the best cake I have ever tasted! Just expect traditional simplicity!
For families in search of a peaceful escape with plenty of activities and excellent weather, Alqueva in Portugal's Alentejo region is the perfect destination. Whether you're cruising the lake on a houseboat, stargazing under the pristine night sky, or exploring charming villages, Alqueva promises an unforgettable experience away from the crowds. Embrace the tranquility, create lasting memories, and discover the hidden wonders of this idyllic family-friendly retreat.
Head over to my Instagram account to follow more of my own family’s adventures in Portugal and further afield.
