The municipality of Alcochete includes the Reserva Natural do Estuário do Tejo, a protected wetland regarded as the most important wetland in Portugal and one of the most important in Europe. Its birdlife follows different seasonal rhythms: during migration periods, the protected area provides shelter for more than 120,000 birds; flamingos live there all year round.

Birdlife and salt-pan landscapes

At Sítio das Hortas, you can observe salt-tolerant, halophytic vegetation and waterbirds. The technical term refers to plants adapted to saline conditions. There is also a bookable guided donkey activity, intended exclusively for children under twelve. Direct contact with the animals offers an insight into their daily work and care. A short course covers choosing and preparing the donkey, as well as basic rules for a safe walk.

Another natural area is the Complexo de Salinas do Samouco. Covering 360 hectares, it provides thousands of birds with feeding, resting and nesting grounds. The four-kilometre Trilho do Flamingo is an easy trail. A visit therefore takes in both the salt-pan landscape and its importance as a habitat.

Salt production is also part of this place. Salt from the Salinas do Samouco is made by traditional methods and is available at the shop in the Complexo de Salinas do Samouco. Within the complex, Marinha do Canto is the only salt pan that still produces salt. Nature watching, a walk and a glimpse of local production each offer a different focus here.

History and living traditions

The Museu Municipal de Alcochete has two permanent exhibition units: the Núcleo Sede and the Núcleo de Arte Sacra. The Núcleo Sede explores important moments in Alcochete’s history; its collections are arranged historically and chronologically. The Núcleo de Arte Sacra displays a collection of paintings that includes an altarpiece from the main altar. The collection also includes the Misericórdia banner, one of the oldest in the country.

Architectural and local landmarks include the Igreja de São Baptista, also known as the Igreja Matriz, with its Manueline style, and the traditional Bairro das Barrocas district. It was mainly home to people whose work was connected with salt production, shipping and fishing. Bullfighting is classified in Alcochete as intangible cultural heritage of municipal interest.

The Círio dos Marítimos preserves a tradition devoted to the veneration of Our Lady of Atalaia, which has existed for more than five centuries. The celebrations begin on Easter Saturday and continue for three more days. The Festas do Barrete Verde e das Salinas bring together many visitors, especially on the second weekend in August.

By the Tagus and on the water

Along Alcochete’s waterfront, you can spot herons and eagles while walking by the Tagus. The Passeio do Tejo runs along a 1,000-metre wall beside Rua do Norte, Largo da Misericórdia and Avenida D. Manuel I. These specific sections and streets help you locate the waterfront.

For water sports enthusiasts, Praia dos Moinhos is associated with kitesurfing: the beach is used for the sport and for learning how to do it. Tourist river trips between the Ponte Vasco da Gama and the Reserva Natural do Estuário do Tejo are offered on the Bote Leão boat. Check the latest dates before booking.

Getting there and getting around

By road, Alcochete is accessible via the Ponte Vasco da Gama, the Autoestrada do Norte, the IC 32 and the connection to the A2. Bus routes 410, 412 and 413 connect Alcochete (Freeport) with Barreiro (train station), Montijo (Cais do Seixalinho) and Setúbal, respectively. As the bus routes offer convenient travel options, it is advisable to check the timetable before setting off. When planning your trip, you can choose to focus on nature, culture, local traditions or water sports.

Discover more destinations: Alcochete, Barreiro, Castelo, Setubal, Almada, Alcácer Do Sal, Seixal, Santiago Do Cacém.

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