Santa Clara-a-Velha River Beach

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Swimming Pool

District: Beja > Odemira > Santa Clara-a-Velha

Location

The Santa Clara-a-Velha River Beach is located in the heart of the Alentejo interior, within the municipality of Odemira. Situated in the vast reservoir of the Santa Clara Dam, this expanse of water is about three kilometers from the locality of Santa Clara-a-Velha. The surrounding area is recognized for its environment of silence and tranquility, offering a naturally calm and inviting atmosphere for relaxation.

The reservoir, which extends for almost two thousand hectares, provides wide and unobstructed views of a landscape dominated by water and nature. It is a refuge for those seeking moments of relaxation and close contact with the environment.

Waters and Landscape

The waters of the Santa Clara-a-Velha River Beach are known for their clarity and freshness, ideal for a swim on hot summer days, with temperatures that frequently exceed 20 degrees Celsius. The location holds the Blue Flag recognition, attesting to its quality. The vastness of the reservoir gives it the appearance of a "blue sea," where small islands occasionally emerge, creating a serene and captivating landscape.

The slopes of the hills that embrace the beach, enriched by humidity, maintain a verdant hue, functioning as a sort of natural balcony overlooking the lake. This natural setting contributes to the feeling of an oasis of freshness, even during the hottest periods.

Heritage of the Dam

The Santa Clara-a-Velha River Beach owes its existence to the construction of the Santa Clara Dam, a notable engineering project inaugurated in 1969. This dam was built to boost agricultural and agro-industrial activity in the region, revealing its historical and economic importance to the Alentejo.

Next to the beach, one can observe the imposing surface spillway of the dam, a structure that stands out for its scale. With a diameter of over four meters and a dizzying length of 28 meters, this engineering work allowed for the discharge of the Mira River, playing a crucial role in controlling the reservoir's waters.

Leisure and Contact with Nature

For those visiting the Santa Clara-a-Velha River Beach, there are several opportunities to enjoy the natural environment. The bathing area is considerable in extent, and the water remains calm, facilitating swimming. A floating platform offers a convenient point of access to the water.

In addition to swimming, the location allows for various water sports. The reservoir waters are also a prime spot for recreational fishing, particularly sought after by black bass enthusiasts. There is also the possibility of taking boat trips, exploring the vastness of the water body. For moments of relaxation on land, several strategically placed benches invite picnics with a privileged view of the blue of the reservoir.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt