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.
