
Alqueva Lake: Portugal's lake country in the Alentejo region was formed when the Alqueva Dam shut, flooding the area with waters from the Guadiana River.

Monsaraz: The medieval walled village of Monsaraz offers sweeping views over the Alqueva Dam.

Amieira Marina: Houseboats, river cruises, canoeing, paddling and other activities are available at this marina on the lake.

Xerez Cromlech: Dating back millennia, this megalithic monument features 50 granite menhirs. It was moved in 2004 after the dam closed.

Moura: Olive groves and vineyards surround the town of Moura, where the streets are lined with traditional white homes.

Herdade do Esporão: This restaurant on a wine estate has one Michelin star as well as a Michelin green star for sustainability.

Dark skies: More than 1,000 square miles of this region is designated a Dark Sky Reserve, owing to its lack of light pollution.

Lakeside simplicity: Thanks to irrigation from these waters, the surrounding terrain is carpeted with fields of olive trees, tidy vineyards and fruit trees.



