A MAGICAL PLACE

The waters of the Lower Guadiana form a natural border that divides Spain and Portugal, possessing exceptional natural, scenic, and cultural values. Its virgin landscapes, sparsely populated with holm oaks and olive groves, where the river marks the border, once a common route for smuggling. Now, it traffics a rich cuisine that travels through the smells and flavors of both shores.

 

Sanlúcar de Guadiana and Alcoutim

 

The towns of Alcoutim and Sanlúcar de Guadiana, separated by the flow of a large river, a historical landmark of the turbulent past of both countries, occupy a strategic, defensive position for each country. Almost identical in their elegant white exterior, they sit opposite each other on the riverbanks, making it hard to believe they belong to different countries.

 

Alcoutim has a long history, dominated by Arabs, Romans, and Greeks. On the hill of Santa Bárbara stands the Velho Castelo de Alcoutim, whose origins date back to the 9th century, with only remnants left. The Castelo Novo, built in the 16th century, rises on the village crest. At the Ribeira de Cadavais, there's a river beach, perfect for swimming, with a blue flag. There’s also a good selection of bars and restaurants.

 

Sanlúcar is a picturesque village with a brightness from the whitewashing of its houses, its intricate slopes, old mills, and the Church of Our Lady of Flowers at its highest point. There is daily activity in its small port, and nearby is a river beach.

 

The 17th-century Castle of San Marco, located at the top of the village, is the ideal place for a beautiful and wide panoramic view of the town and its surroundings. Several bars/restaurants offer typical regional dishes.

 

For hiking and MTB lovers, there are the Natural Paths of the Guadiana, and nearby is the Green Route of the Guadiana, which follows the old railway line that carried manganese from the mines to the La Laja port.

Boat rides are also available.