Do you love diving, but the sea isn’t your thing or are you simply looking for somewhere different, without waves, salt and… crowds? Then this itinerary of river beaches is for you.
We’ve chosen a good handful of river beaches that will fill you up, all within a 1h30 to 2 hour drive from the capital. Hit the road, because paradise is not far away.
Lago Azul, in Ferreira do Zêzere
Officially it’s called Praia Fluvial da Castanheira, but everyone knows it as Lago Azul (Blue Lake ), thanks to the inn of the same name next door.
In the middle of the Castelo de Bode Dam, it has a floating platform with two pools (one for adults and one for children) that invites you to take a dip in the waters of the River Zêzere.
This area is also popular with wakeboarding enthusiasts, but if you’re looking for something quieter, you can always take a seagull ride or go hiking on the trails that surround the dam.
Distance from Lisbon: 158 km/1h50
Aldeia do Mato, in Abrantes
Another river beach on the Castelo de Bode reservoir where the blue waters of the Zêzere contrast with the green of the surrounding pine trees.
Located in the municipality of Abrantes, it is home to a Nautical Recreation and Leisure Park with floating pools, a mooring pier, water sports equipment and a bar.
Those who want to can sleep next to the reservoir in one of the wooden bungalows on site. There is also a campsite about six kilometers away, in the village of Martinchel.
Distance from Lisbon: 140 km/1h30
Olhos de Água, in Alcanena
This river beach owes its name to the source of the River Alviela, which rises to the surface a few meters higher up with clear, fresh waters. Although it’s a delight for kids and adults alike, it’s particularly popular with the younger ones because here they can stand up and see the bottom.
It is part of a pleasant leisure area with picnic areas, a children’s playground and even a campsite. Other must-see attractions in the vicinity are the Alviela Living Science Center and the Gruta da Canada, inhabited by thousands and thousands of bats.
Distance from Lisbon: 114 km/1h20
Alamal, in Gavião
The scenery alone makes the narrow, winding road that leads there worthwhile. The surrounding vegetation, but above all the Belver Castle, on the other side of the Tagus, at the top of the slope, invite you to enjoy the views before taking a dip.
Although very popular in the warmer months, the long sandy beach (compared to other river beaches) and the grassy areas have room for everyone.
If you go there, don’t miss the wooden walkway along the river. For the full experience, all you have to do is spend the night.
Distance from Lisbon: 175 km/1h50
Gameiro Dam, in Mora
There’s no one who doesn’t know or hasn’t heard of the Fluviário de Mora, but few know that, right next door, there’s also a pleasant river beach that takes advantage of the waters of the River Raia.
We’re talking about Açude do Gameiro where, in addition to diving, you can also picnic, discover the tree climbing circuit, stroll along the wooden walkway and visit the Environmental Interpretation Center. If you want to stay here, there is a campsite available.
Distance from Lisbon: 116 km/1h30
Albergaria dos Fusos River Beach
Inaugurated in 2023, Albergaria dos Fusos River Beach is already standing out as Portugal’s new sensation destination, bringing together stunning nature, fun and sustainability.
It is located next to the iconic Albergaria dos Fusos Dam in Cuba and is a river beach that has become the jewel of the Alentejo Central Ecopark , winning the prestigious Blue Flag, an international symbol of environmental quality and safety.
Distance from Lisbon: 171 km/2h01
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