Alqueva Dam and Cacela Velha highlighted in Portuguese tourism

The Alqueva Dam has been named a regional finalist in the ‘Novas 7 Maravilhas de Portugal’ competition within the Great Works category. Since the reservoir began filling in 2002, the project has fundamentally transformed the Alentejo landscape, shifting the region from traditional valleys to a massive water reservoir that supports agriculture, energy production, and water management.

The dam has also catalyzed a new dimension of tourism, including boat tours, nature experiences, and stargazing. This transformation has altered the relationship between the territory and its resources, creating new economic opportunities through rural tourism and expanded irrigation.

In the Algarve, the small village of Cacela Velha has gained international recognition from the Spanish website Turium, which described the location as ‘Algarve reduced to the essential’. The village is noted for its white houses, historical heritage, and elevated position overlooking the Ria Formosa.

Cacela Velha’s charm lies in its combination of historical fortifications and its views of the salt marshes and sandbanks of the Ria Formosa. Due to its increasing popularity, visitors are advised to visit during early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.