Falconry, an ancient practice involving the training and flight of birds of prey, remains popular in the Alentejo region. Originally used for hunting and gathering food, this activity has evolved over centuries and is now part of the local culture, involving species such as falcons, eagles, and buzzards.
In Portugal, this tradition has been included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage National Register since 2016. The knowledge associated with this practice is passed down from generation to generation through training and preparation, and in recent years, particular attention has been paid to bird welfare, habitat conservation, and respect for nature.
The activity has two traditional formats. In high-altitude flight, falcons are released to gain altitude and pursue prey in the air. In low-altitude flight, birds such as buzzards and eagles take off from the falconer's palm and follow trajectories close to the ground, tracking the terrain and vegetation.
Those who wish to see falconry up close can visit Vila Galé Collection Alter Real, a four-star hotel in Alter do Chão. This complex is located near Coudelaria de Alter, which was founded by King D. João V in 1748 and is considered the oldest continuously operating site in the world, dedicated to breeding purebred Lusitanian horses.
The visit includes falcon flight demonstrations and the opportunity to try 'flying with a bird in a glove,' during which the visitor interacts with the predators, guiding them toward their glove. The hotel also features a Falconry Museum, displaying knowledge about the practice and animal handling.
In addition to the bird presentations, the stud farm offers tours, riding lessons, galloping, and harness driving—three disciplines of equestrianism. The hotel is situated on the grounds of Herdade da Tapada do Arneiro, a vast area of about 800 hectares, where outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and horseback riding are also available.
The hotel's infrastructure includes 77 apartments, two outdoor pools for adults and one for children, a spa complex with an indoor heated pool, a regional cuisine restaurant, a bar, a library, conference rooms, and a banquet hall. There is also a wine tasting room and a restored old olive oil mill with a wood-fired oven.
Accommodation starts from 150 euros per couple. Further information can be found on the Vila Galé Collection Alter Real website.
Another option for observing falcons in action is Badoca Safari Park, located in Vila Nova de Santo André. The park covers an area of 90 hectares and houses about 600 animals from over 80 species, including zebras, giraffes, and even kangaroos.
One of the complex's activities is a presentation of birds of prey featuring eagles, hawks, and vultures. For 30 minutes, a trainer demonstrates the animals' flight and discusses the characteristics of each, related to their habitat. The demonstration also reveals the anatomy of the animals and their feeding habits, distinguishing between predators that kill prey and scavengers that consume it. Visitors also observe simulations of hunting scenes inspired by the birds' behavior in nature.
Falconry sessions are held twice a day; the schedule is provided at the reception upon arrival at the park. Ticket prices start from 24 euros. Details are available on the official Badoca Safari Club website.