From Arraiolos to the Serra d’Ossa, Serra de S. Mamede, Portel or Grândola, jump on a bicycle and discover hidden trails. Mountain biking is both an enjoyable way to keep fit and one of the best ways of getting to know the region's hidden corners: meet other mountain-bike enthusiasts exploring the banks of the lakes; in Beja, you can rent a bike and then get lost in the maze of narrow lanes; and in Évora, pedal to the Jardim de Diana, for a unique view of the acropolis.

But if you've ever dreamt of riding a horse into the sunset, like they used to in old westerns, go to one of the riding schools that are all over the Alentejo and make this dream come true.

You can do this at the Alter do Chão stud farm, where the sight of the Lusitanian horses is worth the trip alone, as well as at Ponte de Sor or Alcácer do Sal.

If your´re a fan of water, then why not try canoeing? Don't miss the rivers Tejo or Sado. At the Alqueva and every other lake of the Alentejo, paddle along calm waters. The River Guadiana, in the south, has a unique natural habitat: so stop paddling, and let yourself be swept along on a steady current to the sound of the birdsong.