The region of Comporta, the trendy getaway on the Alentejo coast.
The Comporta region is characterised by its vast pine and cork oak forests stretching inland, and its long, almost untouched coastline, with over 60 km of soft white sand dunes and crystal-clear waters. The area was an important agricultural centre, with a thriving wine industry and large estates dedicated to the cultivation of rice and wheat. The region was also a centre for fishing and maritime trade, with boats sailing up the nearby river Sado to trade goods with Lisbon and other ports along the coast.
When driving down from Lisbon, you will first arrive in Alcácer do Sal, a lovely little town overlooking the river Sado and the surrounding rice fields. The town has preserved its typical architecture and is perfect to enjoy a lunch or drink in one of the many restaurants along the riverside boardwalk. If you prefer spending time surrounded by nature, you can venture south east towards the town of Torrão.
Inland, Comporta is dominated by vast expanses of pine and cork oak forests, which are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. These forests are an important habitat for many species of birds, including eagles, storks and herons, as well as small mammals such as foxes and rabbits ... . The coast is home to a variety of marine life, a wide range of fish species, including dolphins.
The Sado river estuary, which borders the region, is one of the largest wetland areas in Portugal and is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including the white stork and the Portuguese water dog.
