The west coast is one of the most beautiful beach zones, that has survived without the savage tourism industry that disfigured the Algarve. Be sure to visit Vila Nova de Mil-Fontes or one of the little towns around.
The area is commonly known as the "bread basket" of Portugal, a region of vast open countryside with undulating plains and rich fertile soil. With very few exceptions all the major towns are mainly reliant on agriculture, livestock and wood.
To the east of Portalegre is the Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede, a fascinating Nature Park Area that includes charming medieval villages that have changed very little from those days. In the south near Mértola is another Nature Park Area named Parque Natural do Vale Guadiana. This is mainly uninhabited and a contrast to the other above. To the west, the coastal strip that runs from the port of Sines down to Cape de São Vicente is also a reserved area.
