Camping Beira-Marvao Alentejo

Alan Rogers Review

Beirã-Marvão is a family run campsite close to the Spanish border, in the Serra de São Mamede National Park. This is very much rural camping and the Dutch owners’ aim is that the campsite should have a negligible impact on the surroundings. After the attractive traditional reception building, a rough track climbs to the hill-top where there are touring pitches on roughly-cut terraces between olive trees. The track then descends to an open field, with more cork, oak and olive trees, where there are further pitches. There is space for 33 touring units and 20 tents, with 30 electrical connections (6/10A) available; long cables and possibly levelling blocks may be needed in places.

The surrounding National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, cyclists and walkers, and many rare raptors nests can be found within the park. The owners will provide details of trails in the area that take advantage of some great viewing points.

There are historical sites in the area and a rich cultural heritage, such as the archaeological excavations of the Roman city of Ammaia. Bicycles can be hired with suggested routes of varying levels of difficulty. Electric bicycles are recommended. This is a relatively green area and beautiful fishing lakes are to be found close by. In addition, there is a free accessible river swimming pool within cycling distance, surrounded by various good restaurants. As well as the Roman city of Ammaia, other historical sites include the hill-top towns of Marvão and Castelo de Vide. Nearby Beirã has an impressive railway station which was a frontier post designed to impress arrivals on the now-defunct line from Madrid to Lisbon; the ceramic murals depict typical scenes from the Alentejo region. You can find more than 40 routes created by the campsite for cyclists, hikers and motorcyclists, but also for motorists, to explore nearby and further surroundings. The campsite is an excellent base for day trips to Evora, Elvas and the cozy Spanish towns in the region of Extremadura.

Facilities

Modern shower block with spacious, controllable showers, open-style washbasins with cold water only (but hot tap outside). Service washes. In bad weather a dryer is available. Small bar and restaurant. Snacks from reception and take away meals (all year). Two small swimming pools with saltwater installation – parental supervision of children essential. Owners of a camper/American motorhome have a passenger car available for shopping. Powerful telescope can be borrowed to study night sky. Charcoal barbecues not permitted. Bicycle hire. Multiple dogs accepted, please request in advance. Free WiFi at bar.

• Accommodation to Rent
• American Motor Homes
• Bar on Site
• Bicycle Hire on Site
• Fishing Nearby
• Indoor Pool Nearby
• Lake/River Swim
• Nature
• Outdoor Pool Nearby
• Outdoor Pool on Site
• Pets allowed
• Restaurant
• Riding Nearby
• Shop Nearby
• Small Site
• Takeaway Food
• Twin Axle Caravans Accepted
• Walking
• Wifi Free
• Wifi Partial Site

Location

Site is 100 km west of Cáceres (Spain) via N521 and N246-1. Turn north at Portagem on N359, then left in 2.2 km (V. Rodao), after 80 meters turn righy and follow signs to site. From north at Coimbra take A13-1 east then A13 south past Tomar. Take A23/IP6 (Abrantes) east to exit 15 (Portalegre) follow signs towards Marvao, from Portagem as above. From south at Estremoz on A6/IP7, take IP2/E802 north through Portalegre. Follow signs for Marvão and Spain and at roundabout at Portagem turn north as above.