If you’re into walking, nature, photography, birds, wildlife or any combination of these a short trip to the Bravura Dam is a great experience. This is especially so now that the dam is at unprecedented levels after the wettest February and March (2025) in many years. The walking trail is a circular route of 6.9 kilometers around the dam. In my opinion it’s a easy walk with the only difficulty being the steep steps down to the trail from the carpark.
Getting to the Bravura Dam
Your options are your own vehicle, a rental car, motorbike or bicycle.
From Lagos, Portugal there are 2 routes (get there by one and come back via the other)
1. Take the Bensafrim road and follow the signs to the dam
2. Take the 125 to Odiaxere and follow the signs
Bravura Dam Trail
When you arrive at Bravura Dam you’ll see a dirt cat park big enough for about 20 vehicles (there’s plenty of room for motor homes too)
The trail starts behind the restaurant (closed permanently) at the edge of the car park above the dam wall. From there, follow the well-marked path down the stone steps. Take your time on the steps—they can be steep and slippery after rain. Once you reach the bottom of the stone steps, head down the path to the dam.
Then, head across the dam, take a left and the path then runs close to the water for about 3.5 km. You will pass small inlets, rocky outcrops and low hills covered in cork oak and wild olive.
About halfway, you cross a narrow stone bridge that spans a quiet bay. This spot makes a good break point. You can rest on the rocks, watch the water and scan the sky for birds. After the bridge, the path climbs a short rise and then circles back toward the dam wall. The final stretch leads you uphill on a dirt track. Look back often—views over the reservoir open up on your right. At the end, you climb the steep steps to return to the car park.
Note: If you are looking for more detailed information about the walking trail such as the route and elevation, check out https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/barragem-de-bravura-63119485
Flora and Fauna
Bravura Dam sits in a mixed woodland area. You will see cork oaks, carob trees and patches of mastic. In spring, wildflowers like rock rosemary and Spanish lavender carpet the banks. In summer, the dam often hosts migrating birds. You might spot grey herons, egrets or kingfishers hunting along the edge. Small mammals, such as rabbits and foxes, live in the underbrush. Keep a soft voice on the trail to avoid startling wildlife.
Photography Tips
- Early light: Visit at sunrise or soon after. Soft light brings out textures in the rocks and trees.
- Reflections: Calm water reflects the sky and hills. Aim for still mornings.
- Close‑ups: Use a macro or zoom lens to capture wildflowers, lichen on stones, or bird details.
- Silhouettes: On clear days, use the dam wall or bridge as a frame against the sky.
What To Bring
- Water and snacks: There are no shops or taps on the trail.
- Comfortable shoes: Choose footwear with good grip for uneven ground and steps.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential in summer.
- Binoculars: A small pair will help you see birds and distant views.
- Camera: Charge batteries and clear memory cards before you go.
Best Time To Visit
Late winter and early spring offer the best mix of green hills and high water levels. After dry summers, the dam may drop below its peak, and shoreline plants turn brown. Autumn can be dry too, but the light is warm and soft. Avoid very hot days in July and August, when shade is scarce.
Service and Facilities
The trail is free and open year‑round from dawn to dusk. Mobile phone reception can be patchy, so let someone know your plans before you set off. There are no toilets or bins on site. Pack out all waste and use public facilities in nearby villages, such as Bensafrim or Odiaxere. Follow any posted rules, stay on the path, and watch your step on loose stones.
Wrapping Up
A day trip to Bravura Dam makes a perfect break from coastal crowds. The 6.9 km loop suits most walkers, even those new to hills and steps. You can move at your own pace, pause for photos or sit by the water and soak in the view. Pack light, bring water, and check the weather before you leave. Whether you aim to spot birds, frame the landscape with your lens, or simply enjoy a quiet walk, the dam delivers on every visit.
