The Barragem de Santa Clara sits in the heart of the Odemira municipality, a large reservoir created by damming the Rio Mira. Surrounded by eucalyptus and pine forest, the lake is a popular destination for fishing, wild camping, and birdwatching — the surrounding wetlands attract herons, kingfishers, and in winter, significant numbers of wildfowl.
The reservoir has a particular draw for those interested in submerged history: during drought years, when water levels drop significantly, the partially submerged remains of the old village of Santa Clara-a-Velha become visible. The ruins of the old church tower breaking the surface is one of the more unusual sights in southern Portugal.