The region, past, present and future
The Southern Alentejo is an area of natural landscape not yet fully developed to encourage tourism although it’s close proximity to both the Algarve and the Spanish border means that there are numerous visitors to the region from all over Europe. Attracted by the raw beauty of the landscape, the climate and the simple uncluttered way of life, many also live here or own holiday retreats. Cork, olive and eucalyptus farming are predominant local occupations as is cultivating and living off the land. The local Portugese are as a rule, welcoming and generous, and a few speak English or another European language. Sadly the old ways are changing whilst the new generations move out and the foreigners move in. But this offers a new lease of life as ruins are re-built and dying properties spring to life again. Sambro itself is at the heart of an area of ecological reserve and was once used as an experimental station for solar power. In this area you may encounter a great variety of flora and fauna, and many different species of birds and wildlife such as boar and deer. There is also much in the way of archeological heritage incorporating castles. churches, chapels and convents.
The towns are pleasant to stroll around and they all have their individual charms and surprises. There are regular open air markets. Ourique has a newly built theatre offering live music entertainment and Almodovar has two museums and a handicraft centre.
You will probably come a across a river or damn beach to dapple your toes in. Windsurfing and canoeing are available at Santa Clara damn. The beautiful atlantic coast is within driving distance for a day with the surf rolling into pretty sandy coves.
The towns are pleasant to stroll around and they all have their individual charms and surprises. There are regular open air markets. Ourique has a newly built theatre offering live music entertainment and Almodovar has two museums and a handicraft centre.
You will probably come a across a river or damn beach to dapple your toes in. Windsurfing and canoeing are available at Santa Clara damn. The beautiful atlantic coast is within driving distance for a day with the surf rolling into pretty sandy coves.