In October, Portugal debuted in Ornitherapy with a pioneering experience promoted by StayUpon Hotels & Resorts at Praia do Sal Resort & SPA, placing Alcochete on the international map of this wellness practice, which combines birdwatching and mindfulness. Integrated into the program “Nature and Contemplation,” the concept has attracted national and international guests, affirming the destination as the first in the country to offer this innovative approach, according to a press release.
According to the same source, running until the end of March, the program invites guests to slow down and rediscover balance through direct contact with nature, with the Tagus estuary and the emblematic Salinas do Samouco as privileged settings, one of the region’s most important natural sanctuaries.
“With success registered since the launch, the experience now presents new features that strengthen the wellness and autonomy components. We have guided yoga sessions, through exclusive access to three videos at different levels, which allows autonomous practice in full communion with nature, whether beside the hotel’s outdoor pool, on the balcony of the room, at Praia dos Moinhos, near the Tagus, or another inspiring location chosen by the guest,” says Vera Madureira, the Marketing and Communications Director of StayUpon Hotels & Resorts.
Another novelty is the permanent integration of new nature-inspired treatments into the SPA Cinq Mondes menu at Praia do Sal Resort & Spa, allowing, throughout the year, the benefits associated with Ornitherapy to be experienced by guests, whether staying guests or the general public.
The “Nature and Contemplation” program remains available until March 31 and returns later in the last quarter of 2026, with the reopening of the peak Birdwatching season, when the birds will again include the Tagus estuary in their migratory routes. Between the river, the salt flats and the birds’ songs, the invitation remains: there is still time to try this transformative practice and discover Alcochete as a refuge of nature, serenity and balance, only 20 minutes from Lisbon.
About the ‘Nature and Contemplation’ program
The “Nature and Contemplation” program consists of a holistic experience that combines accommodation, gastronomy, spa treatment and nature, with a visit to the Salinas do Samouco, one of the region’s most important natural sanctuaries of the Tagus estuary, the ideal site for tranquil birdwatching and the only saltworks still active on land formerly owned by salt workers.
Available for 270 euros, for two people, this offer was designed to be in line with Ornitherapy and includes one night of accommodation with breakfast, the SPA Cinq Mondes treatment “Exfoliation with Sand and River,” created especially to empower therapists to enhance Ornitherapy, a themed meal “Flavors in Flight over the Tagus,” at Omaggio restaurant, conceived to awaken sensations that are a true journey through nature and the world of birds, and also a visit to the nearby Salinas do Samouco. To learn more or book the “Nature and Contemplation” package, access the website here.
