Presentation
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A mountainous massif, sometimes crowned by quartzite ridges dominating smooth and wavy surroundings. Created by the altitude and the exposure associated with the particular climate conditions and differentiated geological substrates, São Mamede Mountain is a different Alentejo in which certain sections remind us of Beira. In Serra de São Mamede Nature Park (29.694 ha) oak woods coexist with sweet chestnut woods, cork and holm oak woods, as well as Broom, Rockrose and Gorse fields - it indicate of the edge of Atlantic and Mediterranean influences which can be witnessed in the varied landscapes which are enhanced when viewed from above. The diversity of habitats corresponds to the diversity of animal species with highlight for the birds of prey and bats.
Countless testimonies of the past - from the Ammaia Roman ruins to the Escusa gutters along with other examples of military architecture, such as the ones in Marvão, Castelo de Vide and Alegrete - and particularly attractive conglomerates guarding curious constructions from centuries past such as Marvão e Castelo de Vide.
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Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas, I.P. (ICNF, I.P.)
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Mountain
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Alentejo
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Arronches
Castelo de Vide
Marvão
Portalegre
Identification and Access
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Access coming from:
- north by N246, continue through the N246-1 until Castelo de Vide;
- Portalegre, follow the N359, following the indications for Marvão;
- Arronches, you can enter the south part of the nature park, through Esperança and through Mosteiros/Alegrete.
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Yes
Tip
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The village of Marvão is on the largest and tallest quartzite ridge south of the Tejo river, where"the eagles can be seen from above" and Castelo de Vide, with an abundance of water, strong vegetation and a place of many stories associated to the well preserved material testimonies.
To observe the fauna leave early in the morning or a bit before dusk. Bring binoculars and a camera, if you have it. Always pay attention to the weather forecast and avoid performing activities in days of rain, thunderstorm or fog. Avoid going out by yourself, but, if you do, inform an acquaintance or a local entity of your departure and return. Use simple and comfortable clothes. Make outerwear, food, water, sunscreen and/or a raincoat available. You can also take a cellphone and a flashlight (don't start a fire or dispose of cigarette butts incorrectly). Take special precautions when you walk through wet and rocky areas to avoid falling and do not act in a way that might endanger yourself or others. Take note that, this being a limestone area, there are cavities in some places, which sometimes are very deep and not too visible, therefore you should not stray off the existing trails and paths. In case of an accident or unforeseen event contact the emergency service 112.
Supports in place
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The Park has directional and informative signage throughout all of its area.
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No
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No
Statutes of Conservation
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PTCON0007 São Mamede
PTZPE0043 Campo Maior
near you
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Less than 2 km from Crato, is located "Flor da Rosa, known for its monastery, where attributed the birth of Dom Nuno Alvares Pereira. (Learn more)).
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At about 4 km northwest of Alter do Chão, is Alter do ChãoStabels. Be sure to make a tour of the institution dedicated to the study and improvement of the horde breed "Puro Sangue Lusitano". Learn more).
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Weather Conditions
What you can do
1. Walk through the explosion of spring colors in a Nature Park where Atlantic and Mediterranean influences intermingle.
2. During the Holy Week visit Castelo de Vide. On Good Friday see Calvário (Calvary) church (0nly opening during these feasts) and on Holy Saturday, in the churchyard of the parish church, attend the ceremony of the blessing of the sheep.
1. Visit the villages and towns and enjoy the cuisine and regional wines.
2. The waters of Apartadura dam invites to a refreshing bath. Enjoy!
3. Heat exudes the aromas of plants adapted to dryness. In June, visit in Castelo de Vide, the Lavander Festival (Festival da Lavanda) and Others Aromatic plants.
4. Go dancing at Andanças (August)
1. Do not miss the Marvão chestnuts Fair (Feira da castanha de Marvão), in November, and also pay a visit to the castle (862 m of altitude), from where you can see a vast landscape.
2. In times of festivals, go to N. Sra. da Penha and enjoy Castelo de Vide and the surrounding landscape.
1. Go to São Mamede peak (1,025 m) and enjoy and photograph the landscape, from where you can have a glimpse of the heights of Serra da Estrela and much of the Spanish Extremadura.
Best Season: All year long
Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede (headquarters)
Rua Augusto César de Oliveira Tavares, 23 - r/c
7300-126 PORTALEGRE
Telephone : (00351) 245 309 189
E-mail: pnssm@icnf.pt
