Family Adventure on the Rota Vicentina

A Day of Discovery in Aljezur

Today was a beautiful blend of nature and history, a reminder of why we chose the Rota Vicentina for our family adventure. From tranquil lagoons teeming with life to the ancient stones of a Moorish castle, Aljezur offered us a captivating glimpse into Portugal's diverse treasures. The day was filled with exploration, delicious food, and moments of connection with my family, making it a perfect addition to our journey.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Manjedoura Restaurante Bar [i]. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air as we settled into our seats. Jan opted for the traditional Portuguese toast with cheese, while Amina devoured a croissant with jam. I chose a bowl of fruit and yogurt, a lighter option to prepare me for our morning hike. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home as we planned our day ahead [i].

Nature's Embrace at Lagoas de Santo André e da Sancha

After breakfast, we drove to the Lagoas de Santo André e da Sancha Nature Reserve. The reserve is a stunning coastal stretch, a haven for diverse ecosystems and birdlife. As we arrived, the air was filled with the songs of various bird species, a melody that immediately calmed our senses. The lagoons themselves, Santo André and Sancha, are separated from the ocean by a narrow strip of dunes, creating a unique environment where fresh and brackish waters meet.


Explore the breathtaking Lagoas de Santo André e da Sancha Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife and nature lovers in Santiago do Cacém.
We decided to explore the reserve on foot, taking one of the well-marked trails. The Percurso da Casa do Peixe seemed like the perfect choice, promising scenic views and a chance to observe the local flora and fauna. As we walked, I was struck by the serenity of the landscape. The crystal-blue waters of the lagoons reflected the clear sky, creating a mirror-like effect that was simply mesmerizing.

Amina was particularly excited, her eyes wide with wonder as she spotted various birds along the way. We saw Eurasian Coots and Eurasian Reed Warblers, their calls echoing through the peaceful surroundings. Jan, ever the patient photographer, captured stunning shots of the landscape and its inhabitants. I made a mental note to bring my binoculars tomorrow; I'd forgotten them amidst the morning rush. It was a delightful experience to witness nature in its full glory, a perfect contrast to our busy lives back in Delft.

The beauty of nature lies in its ability to remind us of the simple joys in life.

The reserve offers a variety of activities, from hiking and canoeing to windsurfing. Although we didn't partake in any water sports, we saw several people enjoying the calm waters of the lagoon, gliding effortlessly across the surface. It looked incredibly peaceful, and I added it to our list for a future visit. We spent hours exploring the reserve, immersing ourselves in its natural beauty and learning about its unique ecosystem.

Lunch at Pizzaria Vicentina Lda

By lunchtime, we were all ravenously hungry. We drove back to Aljezur and found ourselves at Pizzaria Vicentina Lda. This cozy pizzeria is known for its delicious pizzas and friendly atmosphere. We ordered a large pizza with a variety of toppings, including local cheese and vegetables. The pizza was cooked to perfection, the crust crispy and the toppings bursting with flavor. Amina especially loved it, declaring it the best pizza she had ever tasted. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it a great spot for a family meal.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Pizzaria Vicentina in Aljezur – where every pizza tells a story.

Journey Through Time at the Castle of Aljezur

After lunch, we set off to explore the Castle of Aljezur. Perched atop a hill overlooking the town, the castle offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. The site has been occupied since the Bronze and Iron Ages, with Romans and Visigoths also leaving their mark. However, it was the Moors who built the castle we see today, starting in the 10th century.


Discover the historic Castle of Aljezur, where ancient ruins meet breathtaking views in the heart of Portugal's Algarve region.
The climb to the castle was steep but rewarding. As we reached the top, we were greeted by panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The town of Aljezur stretched out below us, its white-washed houses contrasting against the green hills. In the distance, we could see the Atlantic Ocean, its waves crashing against the shore.

Exploring the castle, we wandered through the ancient walls and towers, imagining what life must have been like centuries ago. The castle's architecture is a testament to its Moorish origins, with intricate details and sturdy fortifications. We saw the remains of houses and barracks, and a vaulted cistern of Arab origin. Amina was fascinated by the cistern, peering into its depths and imagining it filled with water.

The castle played a significant role in the Reconquista, when the Christians reconquered the Iberian Peninsula from the Moors. Aljezur was one of the last towns in the Algarve to fall to the Christians in the 13th century. Legend has it that a Moorish woman betrayed the castle to the Christians, delivering the citadel into their hands. Whether true or not, the legend adds a touch of romance and intrigue to the castle's history.

Despite its age, the castle is remarkably well-preserved. The walls have been partially reconstructed, and there is a small museum inside that displays artifacts and exhibits related to the castle's history. We spent hours exploring the castle, learning about its past and enjoying the stunning views.

A Taste of Alentejo at Costa Alentejana Restaurant

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Costa Alentejana Restaurant [i]. This restaurant is known for its traditional Alentejo cuisine and cozy atmosphere [i]. We started with a selection of local cheeses and olives, followed by a hearty fish stew. The stew was packed with fresh seafood and vegetables, cooked in a rich, flavorful broth. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, a taste of the region's culinary heritage.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Costa Alentejana Restaurant - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Jan and I enjoyed a glass of local wine, while Amina sipped on fresh orange juice. The staff were attentive and friendly, making us feel like valued guests. As we left the restaurant, we were filled with a sense of contentment, grateful for the day's experiences and the memories we had created [i].

Reflections on Aljezur and Anticipation for Tomorrow

Today in Aljezur was a beautiful reminder of the simple joys of travel: discovering new places, learning about different cultures, and spending quality time with loved ones. The Lagoas de Santo André e da Sancha Nature Reserve offered a tranquil escape into nature, while the Castle of Aljezur provided a fascinating glimpse into the region's history. The delicious food we enjoyed throughout the day added another layer of richness to our experience.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore Portugal with my family. It's moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which will take us to Ponta da Atalaia and the Santa Clara Dam [i]. I've heard that Ponta da Atalaia offers stunning coastal views, and I'm eager to see it for myself. The Santa Clara Dam, on the other hand, promises a different kind of beauty, a tranquil lake surrounded by rolling hills. And of course, we'll be sure to sample more of the local cuisine, with breakfast at O Josué, lunch at Restaurante Museu da Batata Doce, and dinner at Rita [i]. It's going to be another day of discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

Before I turn in for the night, I must remember to buy some sunscreen at Tentaçao in town tomorrow [i]. I almost forgot to apply it today, and Jan reminded me of how strong the sun can be, even in May. It's a small thing, but it's essential for protecting our skin as we continue our journey along the Rota Vicentina.


Discover stylish clothing and unique accessories at Tentaçao, a charming clothing store in Odemira, perfect for fashion enthusiasts.
Good night from Aljezur! Tomorrow, we continue our journey, seeking new adventures and creating more unforgettable memories.