Guadiana River Cruises. Availability & Offers 2024/2025

About the Guadiana River

When contemplating a river cruise, the majestic Guadiana River is an iconic option, flowing gracefully through Spain and Portugal for a distance of 744 km (approx 462 miles).

Cradled by awe-inspiring landscape and historical significance, the Guadiana River river cruise is a traveller’s delight. The river’s source is in the Spanish province of Albacete, making its way to the Atlantic Ocean at the Gulf of Cadiz in Portugal.

Enveloped by towering cliffs and enchanted forests, its girth ranges from 60 meters (197 feet) to 600 meters (1968 feet), providing stunning panoramas as you sail along.

Renowned points of interest include Mértola, a hilltop town displaying its Islamic roots, and the Pulo do Lobo, a breathtaking waterfall cascading a height of 20 meters (approx 66 feet). Serpa, another highlight, showcases its Moorish past and enthralling architectural beauty.

Beyond the beautiful vistas, the Guadiana River offers an intriguing glance into antiquity. Historically, it was recognised as a critical navigational route for trading activities between Spain and Portugal. Furthermore, its idyllic surroundings have since time immemorial inspired countless poems, ballads and legends.

Opt for a river cruise holiday on the Guadiana River and uncover history’s secrets embedded within its picturesque riparian environment. It’s time to listen to the whispering winds and the murmuring currents, unraveling the countless stories hidden beneath their soft symphony.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history aficionada, or simply someone seeking serene solitude, a holiday on the Guadiana River will surely delight.

Our top 10 points of interest along the Guadiana River

Castro Marim Nature Reserve

The Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo Antonio Marsh Natural Reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise, hosting several species of birds throughout the year. Featuring salt pans, marshland, and creeks, it offers a serene environment perfect for nature lovers.

Pulo do Lobo Waterfall

This is the most dramatic waterfall on the Guadiana River, which creates a beautiful chasm as it plunges down between the rugged rocks. It’s named Pulo do Lobo, or “Leap of the Wolf”, because it was once believed only a wolf could make the leap from one side to the other.

The Town of Alcoutim

Located along the right bank of the Guadiana River, Alcoutim is a picturesque town perfect for a relaxed retreat. It boasts a charming castle with fantastic river views and is renowned for the festival of ‘Smuggling’, a tradition developed during the years of the tight border control.

Mertola Village

A sleepy village that’s full of history, Mertola has a well-preserved medieval castle, a beautiful church that was once a mosque, and a museum dedicated to the region’s Islamic past. A walk through this village’s tranquil streets is like stepping back in time.

Cross Border Zip Line

For thrill-seekers visiting the Guadiana River, the cross border zip line from Sanlucar de Guadiana in Spain to Alcoutim in Portugal offers an exciting experience. At 720 meters long, it’s the only cross-border zip line in the world.

Guadiana Natural Park

This vast park along the Guadiana River banks invites visitors to its beautiful trails and fantastic picnic spots. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the various bird-watching sites and the chance to see the park’s inhabitant, like mongoose and wild boar.

Vila Real de Santo Antonio

A charming border town with a rich history, Vila Real is known for its unique geometric street layout. It offers wonderful river views, variety of dining options and its location makes it a perfect base for exploring the Algarve region.

Serpa Aqueduct

Built in the late 17th century, this historic serpentine aqueduct on the outskirts of Serpa town offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past. Although it no longer carries water, the aqueduct’s arches make for a striking sight against the rural scenery.

Roman Ruins of Villa Rosa

The Villa Rosa is a significant archaeological site on the Guadiana River bank. It features remnants of a grand Roman villa, complete with thermal baths. The surrounding countryside adds to the villa’s serene atmosphere.

San Marcos Castle

Situated on the Spanish side of the river, this 13th-century fortification offers panoramic views of the river and the Portuguese side. It boasts an interesting history, having changed hands between the Spanish and Portuguese over the centuries.