Parque Ecológico do Gameiro

Parque Ecológico do Gameiro is an eco-friendly leisure park in the village of Cabeção, in the municipality of Mora, in Portugal's Alentejo region. It was built around the Açude do Gameiro weir on the Raia stream and opened in 2012. It makes a good day out for families, a quiet walk by the water, or a stop on a drive through the Alentejo.

What is there to see and do?

The park is a full leisure complex. A river beach sits by the weir, with picnic areas nearby, a children's playground, a sports field and a bar with a cafeteria. There is also a campsite, so you can stay longer than a day. The Environmental Interpretation Centre (CIAmb) explains the local wildlife and landscape.

Nearby you will also find an adventure park for activities among the trees and the Fluviário de Mora, an aquarium devoted to river ecosystems. Both are easy to combine with a visit to the park.

What is the main attraction?

Apart from the Fluviário de Mora, the highlight is the wooden boardwalk (passadiço in Portuguese) that follows the Raia stream. It runs for about 1.5 km and lets you move through the overgrown riverbanks without getting muddy. The boardwalk forms part of a longer walking route.

Which trails can you walk?

The nature trail has two parts:

• Riverside zone – about 2,930 m, of which 1,500 m is wooden boardwalk and 1,430 m is regular path.
• Montado zone – about 2,570 m, crossing the open woodland landscape typical of the Alentejo.

The routes are easy and suitable for families with children. Bring water and a hat, because summers in the Alentejo can be very hot and parts of the route are exposed.

How to get there

The park is in Cabeção, about 5 minutes by car from the town of Mora and fairly close to National Road N2. Driving is the most convenient way to arrive.

When to visit

Spring and early autumn are best, when it is warm but not scorching. In summer the river beach is the main draw, but expect high temperatures. In winter the boardwalk is still pleasant for a calm walk, though food and leisure services may be limited. Check current opening hours with the Mora municipality before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Parque Ecológico do Gameiro paid? The park grounds and boardwalk are offered as a public recreation area. The campsite and some nearby attractions, such as the Fluviário, have separate rules, so check current information with the municipality.

How long does the boardwalk walk take? The boardwalk section is about 1.5 km, so at a relaxed pace expect roughly an hour round trip, including stops for photos and wildlife.

Can you stay overnight? Yes, the park has a campsite.

Is it suitable for children? Yes. There is a playground, easy trails and a river beach, and the Fluviário de Mora aquarium is close by.

Where is the park? In Cabeção, in the municipality of Mora in the Alentejo, about 5 minutes from Mora town.