Castro Verde

Begin your day with an early departure as the journey leads from the coast toward the wide open plains of Castro Verde in the beautiful region of Alentejo. The drive reveals a landscape very different from the nearby Algarve, with rolling farmland and vast skies that provide the perfect setting for birdwatching. Along the quiet countryside roads, the day often begins with sightings of storks resting on their nests, graceful buzzards gliding overhead, and cattle egrets moving across open fields. The journey continues toward the peaceful nature reserve of Vale Gonçalinho, a protected property managed by Liga para a Proteção da Natureza. Here the calm environment allows plenty of time to pause, observe, and appreciate the remarkable diversity of birds that inhabit this special habitat.

During spring the area becomes an important breeding ground for colorful rollers and elegant lesser kestrels, while winter brings large flocks of calandra larks and the impressive black bellied sandgrouse. The morning unfolds slowly across the reserve as you explore fields, traditional buildings, and open plains rich with wildlife. In the afternoon the journey continues through quiet rural roads and scenic viewpoints where wide horizons reveal even more birdlife. Bustards, sandgrouse, and harriers often appear across the agricultural landscape, while distant skies may reveal cranes or majestic birds of prey soaring above the plains. The day ends back in Castro Verde where you can relax and enjoy local flavors before returning, carrying memories of a peaceful day surrounded by nature and remarkable wildlife.