The best traffic-free bike rides around National Park Serra São Mamede

For those planning to hike in the Alegrete area, the main reference route is the PR3 PTG – Percurso de Alegrete. This circular route offers a complete immersion in the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, combining the medieval heritage of the village with montado landscapes and water lines. The Main Route (PR3 PTG) The PR3 PTG - Percurso de Alegrete is about 11.4 km long and is classified as medium/low difficulty. The recommended starting and ending point is near Fonte Nova, although many hikers start their journey in the village of Alegrete itself to explore the historic center right away. Castle and Village: The Castle of Alegrete is the (literal) highlight of the hike. Situated at about 500 meters above sea level, it offers a panoramic view of the Alentejo border region. Don't miss the Clock Tower (Torre do Relógio). Nature and Biodiversity: The trail crosses areas of cork oak montado, pine forests, and riparian areas. It is an excellent place for bird watching (such as the robin or the titmouse) and, near the water lines, you can find rare vegetation like the royal fern. Religious Heritage: During your passage through the village, you can also visit the small Chapel of Mercy (Capela da Misericórdia), which is part of the local historical complex. Practical Hiking Tips Time of Year: Avoid the months of July and August due to the extreme temperatures in the Alentejo. Autumn and spring are ideal for the colors of the vegetation and mild temperatures. In winter, be careful with the ground, which can become quite slippery on cobblestones and rocky trails. Equipment: Use footwear with good grip (the ascents and descents to the castle and river have sections of loose stones). Bring enough water, as outside the village, refueling points are scarce. Safety and Respect: Always follow the official signage (yellow and red marks).

Far in the northeast of Alentejo lies Castelo de Vide, just a few kilometers from the border with Spain. The town is often called Cidade branca (white city), which is primarily due to the pretty whitewashed houses of the town. The highlight of the town (besides its great location in the Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede) is the 14th-century Castelo de São Roque. From the castle, you have a fantastic view of the old town. Other sights in Castelo de Vide include the old Jewish quarter with the oldest synagogue in Portugal and the numerous churches and chapels of the town.

A place to visit every month. It's wonderful.

The chafurdão is a traditional dry-stone shelter with a false dome, typical of the region’s vernacular heritage. Though most surviving examples are recent (the oldest dated to 1733), they follow ancient construction techniques. Oriented toward sunrise, these structures include ventilation and lighting through wall openings. Built for temporary use by farmers and shepherds, they often have walled pens and a compact earth-covered roof stabilized by stone capping.

You can cycle on the dam and watch the reservoir from this viewpoint.

The chafurdão is a traditional dry-stone shelter with a false dome, typical of the region’s vernacular heritage. Though most surviving examples are recent (the oldest dated to 1733), they follow ancient construction techniques. Oriented toward sunrise, these structures include ventilation and lighting through wall openings. Built for temporary use by farmers and shepherds, they often have walled pens and a compact earth-covered roof stabilized by stone capping.

Castelo do Alegrete is an imposing medieval fortress located on a rocky outcrop near the village of Alegrete, Portugal. Dating back to at least the 13th century (with probably older origins), it played a key role in defending the border with Spain. It features a large quadrilateral wall with cubic towers. Although part of the castle is in ruins, it still retains elements such as parapets, gates and arrow slits. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and is an important national monument, a testimony to the defensive history of the region.

Portalegre is a historic town in the Serra de São Mamede near the Spanish border, known for its medieval strategic role and rich religious and architectural heritage. It became a city in the 16th century under King João III. Today, it blends baroque charm with cultural landmarks like the Tapestry Museum and José Régio’s House-Museum.