Cruise the new big lake

Thursday, 25 February 2010 00:00

Europe's biggest man-made lake can be found in Portugal, with lots of the different options from a relaxing cruise or an extended boating holiday. Located in the heart of the Alentejo region, to the southeast of Évora, Alqueva Lake covers some 250 square-kilometers and is reachable from both Lisbon and the Algarve region by car in two hours. A range of boats can be rented for couples or families with weeklong winter rates from 1,140 euros with weekend and short-week (Mon-Fri) rates also available. Day visitors can enjoy a wide range of water sports on the lake as well as a leisurely cruise stopping off at various points of interest, including the tiny medieval walled town of Monsaraz.