Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Vale do Guadiana
Created in 1995, this zone of hills, plains and deep valleys around Serpa and Mértola shel-
ters the Rio Guadiana, one of Portugal's largest and most important rivers. Among its rich
variety of flora and fauna are several rare or endangered species, including the black stork
(sightings of the shy creatures are rare), lesser kestrel (most likely around Castro Verde
and at Convento do São Francisco), Bonelli's eagle, royal owl, grey kite, horned viper and
Iberian toad. The park also has many prehistoric remains. Ask at the
park headquarters
(
286 610 090; Rua Don Sancho II; 9am-12.30pm & 2-5.30pm Mon-Fri, 10am-1pm & 3-6pm Sat)
, in smart
premises by the
câmara municipal,
for details of walking trails and where to spot wildlife
- they can advise you and provide you with a basic map.
NATURE RESERVE
Sleeping
The
turismo
has a brochure listing more accommodation options in rural areas.
Casa da Tia Amalia
( 965 052 379, 918 794 579;
www.mertola-hostel-low-cost-casa-da-tia-amalia.com
; Além Rio 16; dm/d with shared
bathroom €14/15, d €34)
A welcome addition to Mértola's budget options, this hostel was just
opening at the time of research and should be worth checking out. Homely, bright rooms
await. Prices are higher during festivals and special occasions.
HOSTEL
€
Residencial Beira Rio
( 286 611 190;
www.beirario.pt
;
Rua Dr Afonso Costa 108; s/d/tr from €30/40/55; )
Beira Rio offers
simple, colourful rooms. Those with river views are slightly more expensive but they have
breezy terraces.
GUESTHOUSE
€
Hotel Museu
( 286 612 003;
www.hotelmuseu.com
; Rua Dr Afonso Costa 112; s €45, d €55-60; )
This is the new
sister of Beira Rio and is a more modern, neater option. Some rooms have lovely views;
Roman ruins were found in the foundations and you and the public can visit (thus the
hotel name).
HOTEL
€€
Monte do Alhinho
( 286 655 115;
www.omontedoalhinho.com/home.htm
;
Estrada Nacional 265; s/d €50/60; )
Try the ap-
pealing Monte do Alhinho, 8km from Mértola on the road to São Domingos. This taste-
fully converted farmhouse-cum- hacienda has massive rooms, fluffy white towels, and a
RURAL INN
€€
