Running in the Beja District

The West Coast (as 2Pac would call it) of the Beja district is part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park 🌊, one of the wildest and most preserved regions in Portugal (and even Europe!). This park stretches over 100 km of coastline 🏖️, connecting Porto Covo to the small fishing village of Burgau 🎣, in the Faro district. We highly recommend visiting to relax on the soft sand. However, between naps 😴, don't forget to open your eyes to the cliffs facing the Atlantic Ocean 😍. The only small downside for your naps is that sometimes the sea breeze reaches the coasts, and let's be honest, sleeping in the wind isn't as pleasant.

Several coastal towns and villages are worth a visit. Vila Nova de Milfontes is a popular destination for its beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent restaurants 🍽️. Zambujeira do Mar is known for its cliffs and its music festival "MEO Sudoeste" 🎶. If you love hiking or cycling and want to discover the West Coast (which is definitely worth it), the Rota Vicentina trail is just what you need. It even extends to the Algarve in the south of the country.

Now, let's head East! There you will find long plains and valleys ranging from 200 to 400 meters in elevation bordering the Guadiana. This image we're painting is that of the Guadiana Valley Natural Park. Among its iconic sites, Pulo do Lobo is a 16-meter-high waterfall 💧, so watch out for the breathtaking views and water splashes 😉.

After experiencing a touch of nature 🌳, why not take the road to Mértola. Founded by the Roman Empire in the 1st century BC, the town has long been an important stopover for river trade between Lisbon and Seville. Once there, be sure to visit the castle of Mértola and the Church of Mercy. If you're a history buff, don't miss the Archaeological Museum, which houses numerous Roman and Moorish artifacts. Still not convinced? The historical center was declared a national monument in 1984! 🇵🇹

In the Northeast, you will find the Alqueva dam, inaugurated in 2004. Spanning the Guadiana, it's one of the largest hydraulic structures in Europe, creating the continent's largest artificial lake 🚣‍♀️. If you visit the lake, make sure to explore the surrounding communities. The medieval village of Monsaraz offers the best views of the lake. Mourão is renowned for its castle 🏰 and agricultural traditions. Aldeia da Luz was entirely relocated during the dam's filling, illustrating the significant changes brought by this project. The Alqueva region is also an exceptional spot for stargazing, being part of the "Dark Sky Alqueva" starlight reserve 🔭.

As for races, the calendar is filled with events, each with its unique character, showcasing the Beja district: Trilhos de Mértola, Trail da Tomina, Trail Cidade de Moura, or even the Corrida Viana a par de Alvito.