7 of the most stunning waterfalls in Alentejo

The waterfalls of the Alentejo are still a little-known treasure for most. Discover the most beautiful and stunning ones.

We tend to think of the Alentejo region as dry and rolling, but the truth is that there are beautiful waterfalls to discover here, little secrets kept by the locals, which are as stunning as, if not more so than, the waterfalls found elsewhere in Portugal. They may not be very imposing, but they certainly impress those who visit them.

Most of these waterfalls are found in the Serra de São Mamede, but there are also others, with some of them, despite being small, falling from cliffs directly into the sea off the Vicentina Coast. Whether on the coast or inland in Alentejo, there are many waterfalls well worth visiting that surprise even those most familiar with the region.

To help you discover a different side of Alentejo, we've compiled a list of waterfalls in the region that you absolutely must visit. Choose your favourite and hit the road. If you visit them on a hot summer's day, don't forget to bring your swimwear for a dip.

Pego do Inferno Waterfall

It is also called Cascata dos Mosteiros, as this is the name of the village closest to the site. This waterfall is located just before you reach the village of Mosteiros and, to visit it, you should look for Rua de São Bento, where there is a makeshift dirt parking area.

Leave the car here and head downhill for 5 minutes, and you'll arrive at this wonderful spot. If the weather's warm, take the opportunity for a dip, always taking the necessary precautions.

2. Ribeira de Arronches Waterfall

Despite being a place of great beauty, reaching this waterfall can prove somewhat difficult. The path to get there is only 900 metres long, but requires some dexterity and good physical condition.

First, look out for the “Azenha de São Mamede” rural tourism site, then head north along the M1043 for 1,200 metres. Park your car wherever you can, and from there it’s just a few metres to the waterfall. Take care, as the path runs along a ravine.

3. Cabroeira Waterfall

It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in both the Serra de São Mamede and the whole of Alentejo, but reaching this spot is not easy at all. The waterfall is located almost on the border with Spain and, to get there, you should follow the M1044 towards Cabroeira de Baixo.

2 km before you reach the village, park your car on the roadside verge. From here, you will need to walk 1000 metres to a cliff from where you can observe this wonderful waterfall.

4. São Julião Waterfall

It is also known as Monte Sete Waterfall, as it is located near a small village of this name. This waterfall, fed by the waters of the Xévora River, is found in a valley full of trees.

Small pools also form here at its base, where it's possible to cool off during the summer. To visit this place, head to the village of Monte Sete, and follow a dirt track on foot, next to the “a cascata” café, for about 1000 metres.

5. Snake Waterfall

This waterfall is located on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Alentejo, Praia da Amália, which is also one of the most secret beaches in the region. The waterfall cascades down a ravine and then heads towards the sea.

Its peculiar name is no misnomer, as there are indeed many snakes in its waters. But you needn't worry, because the snake species you'll find here are entirely harmless.

6. Furnas Waterfall

This waterfall is also located on a beach, in this case on the beautiful Furnas beach, in Vila Nova de Milfontes. Although it is a place of great beauty, access is quite difficult and, therefore, not recommended for children or people with mobility problems.

Despite this, the sight of this waterfall cascading onto the sand and then into the ocean is well worth all the effort spent to get here. It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Alentejo.

7. Água d’Alto Rock

It is located in the village of Foros de Pereira, in Vila Nova de Milfontes, and is an imposing rock formation, 30 metres high, which turns into a waterfall after the heavy winter rains.

So, if you want to see it in all its glory, you should visit it at this time of year. In summer, when the water isn't running, you can go rock climbing in this magnificent spot and enjoy the view from the top.