Stargazing Wonder at Observatório do Lago Alqueva
Discover the celestial wonders at Observatório do Lago Alqueva, Portugal's premier stargazing destination in the stunning Alqueva region.
Nestled in the Alqueva region of Portugal, the Observatório do Lago Alqueva offers breathtaking views and an unparalleled stargazing experience for tourists looking to explore the wonders of the night sky. This remarkable observation deck is not only an observatory but also a prime tourist attraction that immerses visitors in the beauty of the cosmos.
A brief summary to Observatório do Lago Alqueva (OLA)
- CM1127, 7200-175, PT
- +351960361906
- Visit website
- Tuesday 5 pm-12:30 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-12:30 am
- Thursday 5 pm-12:30 am
- Friday 5 pm-12:30 am
- Saturday 5 pm-12:30 am
Local tips
- Visit during new moon phases for the clearest skies.
- Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
- Check the observatory's schedule for guided tours and special events.
- Consider booking a local accommodation to experience the night sky fully.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset views before stargazing.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start by navigating to the city of Évora, a central location in Alentejo. From Évora, take the N114 road heading southeast toward Reguengos de Monsaraz. After approximately 45 km, you'll reach Reguengos de Monsaraz. Continue straight on the N4 road for another 12 km until you see signs for CM1127. Follow CM1127 for about 6 km, and you will find Observatório do Lago Alqueva (OLA) on your left. Parking is available on-site.
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Public Transportation
To reach Observatório do Lago Alqueva (OLA) using public transport, take a bus from Évora to Reguengos de Monsaraz. The bus service is operated by Rede Expressos, and tickets usually cost around €10. The journey takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive in Reguengos de Monsaraz, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to cover the remaining 12 km to the observatory. Taxi fares may vary, but expect to pay approximately €15-€20 for this trip.
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Combination of Car and Walking
If you're in a nearby town such as Monsaraz, you can drive or take a local taxi to Reguengos de Monsaraz. From there, follow the steps for public transport to reach Observatório do Lago Alqueva (OLA). If you prefer walking, the observatory is roughly a 30-minute walk from Reguengos de Monsaraz along CM1127, but be mindful of traffic.
Discover more about Observatório do Lago Alqueva (OLA)
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