BIRDING TRAIL
⑥ Benviúda
On a walk along this dirt track through open grassland so characteristic of the region, look out for some of the species of the very special bird community that favours this declining habitat.
Of particular importance are the Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax (YR), the Eurasian Stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus (YR), the Black-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles orientalis (YR), the Calandra Lark Melanocorypha calandra (YR), with its sustained song, a lyrical outpouring delivered in a high, circular song-flight, and the Crested Lark Galerida cristata (YR). Keep an eye on the sky, as occasionally a Spanish Imperial Eagle Aquila adalberti (YR) or other large bird of prey may drift into view. If you walk to the end of this track (about 1,200 metres), you will arrive at a raised point from where there is a stunning view of open fields scattered with Holm Oak Quercus ilex, occasional stands of Stone Pine Pinus pinea woodland and widely dispersed, small dams.
If you walk to the end of this track (about 1,200 metres), you will arrive at a raised point from where there is a stunning view of open fields scattered with Holm Oak Quercus ilex, occasional stands of Stone Pine Pinus pinea woodland and widely dispersed, small dams. It is also a nice bicycle tour around that point.
Which species can you spot?
Portugal Wildscapes Experiences
4Bs – B&B, Birds & Bicycles – Apartment
The 4Bs is a family project in Castro Verde for nature and outdoor activities lovers. The name came up very naturally: "birds" for all the protected bird species that surround us in this region, "bicycles" for our special fellings towards this vehicle :), and of course "Bed & Breakfast" for the kind of accommodation we were offering.
They offer na apartment, a triple bedroom, a slot for a van and Glamping: This spacious tent has 1 double bed and 2 single beds. There is a shared outdoor kitchen fully equipped and free solar warmshower. The homestay also offers bike hire.
Herdade de Alagães
The Herdade de Alagães is located in southern Portugal, between the Castro Verde IBA Biosphere Reserve and the Guadiana Valley Natural Park. We are dedicated to sustainable tourism, nature conservation and agroforestry. The property is crossed by the Ribeira de Alvacar and it is a highly-biodiverse area; it is a great location for birdwatching. / The rooms for accommodation were recovered as sustainable buildings, keeping the rammed earth (taipa) walls. The wood-oven house was also repurposed as a small support kitchen for the guests. The property, 260ha in total, includes various paths for nature walks and biking.
Ecoland Rural Tourism
A country house few miles from Mértola, is the ideal place to truly disconnect. In Corte de Gafo, a small village in the heart of the Guadiana Valley Natura Park, life runs smoothly, and the air is filled with bird tunes. There are 3 double-rooms to choose from, and they also offer meals, upon request. They prepared many walking and cycling routes, for you to take the most out of your stay. And you can also rent an e-bike tour to go on a special tour, to discover our natural treasures and local producers.
Birds & Wine Programme in Portugal (Group Tour)
Lisbon Estuaries, Alentejo, International Douro & Douro Valley / Group size: Maximum 7 Participants / Portugal offers a fantastic diversity of habitats and consequently of birds in a relatively small area, so the birding programmes designed by Birds & Nature Tours Portugal enable you to visit several species-rich areas without needing to travel long distances.
E-bike rental in Mértola
Go on a one-day self-guided tour with e-bikes and give a contribution to nature conservation! Cycle along the Pulo do Lobo’s route and discover the emblematic ecosystems of the Guadiana Valley Nature Park.
Birdwatching Day Tour to the Castro Verde plains and the Guadiana Valley
Castro Verde and Mértola are two remarkable areas for birdwatching. Reached from Lisbon within a 90 minute-drive (or from Faro within a 60 minute-drive).
