Best lakes around Cercal provide varied natural features for exploration. While Cercal do Alentejo is known for its coastal proximity, the surrounding region features several inland water bodies. These areas offer opportunities for observing biodiversity and enjoying natural settings. The landscape includes both natural wetlands and artificial lagoons, contributing to the region's diverse outdoor experiences.
Last updated: June 3, 2026
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Artificial lake, with a very pleasant surrounding area. In summer, especially at weekends, the area is very popular with families and groups for picnics. Note: The description below seems to refer to another place, which I think is the Ermida Bridge
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Small artificial lake, where we can sometimes see some wild birds. There is a shooting range nearby, if you hear gunshots, be careful.
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Surrounded by beautiful and abundant trees, it is a bridge with a Romanesque arch. There are several theories regarding its construction; some argue that it was built during the reign of D. João II, in order to facilitate the King's movement when he went to meet Queen D. Leonor for a swim in Caldas, while others claim that it was built in the 19th century due to a technical issue, namely its width. Interestingly, this bridge supports two enormous pine trees at the top of the road.
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Artificial lake, with a very pleasant surrounding area. In summer, especially at weekends, the area is very popular with families and groups for picnics.
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This area, which is home to vast meadows, owes its name to the fact that in the past (80 or 90 years ago) it was a place where wild cattle were allowed to graze freely. Next to a small lake created to retain rainwater (surface water is rare in the Serra de Montejunto, as it is a mountain made up mostly of limestone), you can still see the ruins of an old stable where the animals spent the night to protect themselves from the cold. Today, this area, especially in the autumn and winter months, is used as a grazing area for goats and sheep. In the spring and summer, these fertile meadows are used by the populations of the nearby villages (Cercal and Rocha Forte) to grow crops such as potatoes and other dryland crops.
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“Paul Natura”, Manique do Intendente https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nKhlLvOrJw
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Paúl de Manique do Intendente is an area of around 97,000 square meters that constitutes a very rich natural heritage of great importance in terms of biodiversity, namely in terms of avifauna, already recognized at national level. It is an ecosystem composed of more than 180 species, where you can find 5 "simply unique" species such as the striped tortoise, the common caiman, the otter, the black stork and the reed. The municipality has been focusing on promoting this space, having recently advanced with the installation of an infrastructure for the observation of the fauna and flora of Pául, which aims to promote knowledge, protection and preservation of this unique and so rich ecosystem for the Municipality of Azambuja and for the entire region.
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very pleasant landscape, it is recommended
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The region around Cercal do Alentejo offers several interesting water features. Paúl de Manique do Intendente is a significant natural monument known for its rich biodiversity, especially birdlife. For recreational activities like swimming and relaxing, the Barragem de Campilhas is a popular choice, located within walking distance of Monte Vale Pereiro. Additionally, Lagoa de Alcoentre is an artificial lake favored for family picnics.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Lagoa de Alcoentre is an artificial lake with a pleasant surrounding area, very popular for family picnics, especially on summer weekends. Paúl de Manique do Intendente also offers an observation infrastructure for fauna and flora, which can be an engaging activity for families interested in nature.
The lakes and water features around Cercal do Alentejo are rich in natural diversity. Paúl de Manique do Intendente is a natural monument recognized for its extensive biodiversity, including over 180 species of fauna and flora, with unique species like the striped tortoise, common caiman, otter, black stork, and reed. You can also find vast meadows and small lakes, like at Malhada dos Touros, which serve as grazing areas for local wildlife.
Yes, the Barragem de Campilhas, located close to Cercal do Alentejo, is recognized as a place where visitors can swim and relax. Its peaceful inland waters offer a refreshing contrast to the nearby coastal beaches.
While specific trails directly around every lake might vary, the broader Cercal region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find various routes, from easy to difficult, that explore the natural landscapes. For detailed hiking routes, including moderate and easy options, you can explore the Hiking around Cercal guide and the Easy hikes around Cercal guide.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and picnics, especially at places like Barragem de Campilhas and Lagoa de Alcoentre. For observing grazing animals in meadows like Malhada dos Touros, autumn and winter are more suitable. Spring and summer see these fertile meadows used for crops.
Yes, the Cercal region provides several cycling routes that allow you to explore the surrounding landscapes, including areas near some of the water features. For various cycling tours, you can refer to the Cycling around Cercal guide, which offers routes of varying difficulty.
Yes, Paúl de Manique do Intendente features a dedicated observation infrastructure for fauna and flora. This allows visitors to quietly observe the diverse birdlife and other species that inhabit this natural monument, which is recognized for its national importance in terms of biodiversity.
Malhada dos Touros is unique for its vast meadows and a small lake formed by rainwater. Historically, it was a grazing area for wild cattle and now serves as a pasture for goats and sheep, particularly in autumn and winter. In spring and summer, these fertile lands are used by local communities for growing crops.
Barragem de Campilhas is quite accessible, being located in the close environment of Cercal do Alentejo. It is within walking distance from some local accommodations, making it a convenient spot for those staying in the area to enjoy swimming and relaxation.
Yes, the region includes several artificial water bodies. Lagoa de Alcoentre is a well-known artificial lake popular for family outings. There is also the Azambuja Artificial Lagoon, a smaller lake where you might spot some wild birds.


Still not found your perfect lake around Cercal? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.