Aldeia da Estrela lies on a peninsula surrounded by the Alqueva Reservoir. It is also home to a historic church, a narrow path to a viewpoint, and opportunities for outdoor and water-based activities.

Peninsula and lake views

After the Alqueva waters rose, Aldeia became situated on a peninsula surrounded by the reservoir. A narrow path leads to the tip of the peninsula, where a viewpoint overlooks the lake. This gives visitors who want to experience the landscape on foot a clear destination. As path conditions may vary, it is advisable to check local conditions before setting out.

Church and frescoes

The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Estrela was built in the late 16th century. Frescoes in the chancel depict the Evangelists, the Passion of Christ, the Holy Spirit and Our Lady of Estrela. The images bring together several themes of the Christian faith; together with the church’s construction date, they offer two distinct points of interest: its historical context and its religious imagery. The church is therefore a distinct cultural highlight for visitors whose stay is intended to include more than the lake.

Picnics, swimming and water sports

Visitors can picnic at Parque de Merendas da Estrela. Swimming is also possible in Aldeia da Estrela. A picnic centres on a break on land, while swimming centres on the water. Anyone planning to swim should check local conditions in advance.

Canoeing and other water sports are among the activities on offer in Estrela around Centro Náutico da Estrela. Water therefore plays a role not only in the landscape but also in the activities available. Lake views, swimming and water sports offer different ways to spend time at Alqueva.

A tour from the dam to Estrela

The tour “Em Alqueva, com almoço na Estrela” runs from the Alqueva Dam to Aldeia da Estrela, following the former course of the Guadiana. Throughout the journey, commentary is provided on the reservoir, its shores, and the local fauna and flora. The itinerary also includes disembarking at the quay and a meal featuring typical Alentejo dishes. For travellers interested in both the reservoir and its natural environment and Alentejo cuisine, the tour brings these themes together in a single itinerary.

The narrow path ends at a viewpoint on the peninsula; the tour starts at the dam and travels to Aldeia. This helps visitors choose between a walk with a clear landscape destination and a journey that includes a route, continuous commentary and a meal. The focus differs too: the path is all about lake views, while the tour takes in the reservoir, its shores, and the fauna and flora.

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