Read this article to find out more about one of the most interesting activities to do in the province of Huelva (Spain).

While I was living in Isla Cristina, I heard that there is a Spain – Portugal zipline, and it is actually the only cross-border zipline in the world! How cool is that? Since I am always down to try new things I couldn’t miss the chance to experience this and get the chance to visit two countries in one day!

Before you continue reading, I’ve included this video for you to get a sneak peek of the zipline mini-adventure. The guys from «Counting Countries» recorded the experience and uploaded it on youtube.

Zipline Spain Portugal

The company running this service ‘Limite Zero’, recommends booking the activity at least 24h before coming to the area to make sure there is availability to jump cross-countries. They will also have the equipment ready for you and this will make the process smoother.

This zipline has become the superstar activity in the area

For the price you pay to do the zipline, you’ll have the jump included, a ferry ticket to cross the river back from Portugal to Spain, and a van drive to the top of the hill where the zipline platform is – the website offers a 4×4 Jeep service, but I had a regular car when I did the experience –  in any case, the drive uphill is very short.

Once in the platform, they’ll explain the zipline procedure and you’ll be ready to jump. The zipline is 720 meters long and you’ll fly from one country to the other at a speed of 70 to 80km/h. They also offer a professional photo service for 5€ extra – I personally paid for it as I was traveling alone, and didn’t have my camera gear with me.

Magic – You’ve just traveled through time! One of the best things about this activity is that when you finish the zipline, you are one hour behind and that gives you some extra time to visit the beautiful Portuguese town of Alcoutim.

Once you explore the town, you’ll be able to use the ticket ‘Limite Zero’ provides you, to return back to Spain – 8pm is the latest ferry you can take.

Visit Spain and Portugal in One Day

I spent half of my day in Portugal and my other half in Spain. In less than 8 hours, I discovered two cities in two different countries. How many times can you do this without the need for a passport? 

If you are planning to come to this area, I would recommend you to visit both towns and definitely leave more time to discover Alcoutim in Portugal, which offers a larger number of things to do and see, compared to Sanlúcar de Guadiana (Spain). Here is a mini-guide for you to make the most of your time while in the area.

I would recommend starting with the Zipline, then visiting Alcoutim and taking the ferry back to Spain, to visit the town over there. However, If you’re coming from the Portuguese side, you might just want to take the ferry directly and start your visit in Sanlucar de Guadiana, take the Zipline, and then visit Alcoutim before you head back to your hotel.

Alcoutim – Things to do

After the zipline, you’ll land in Alcoutim, a little town in the Portuguese Algarve. Here is a list of the things you can do while here.

• Breakfast at Cafe Alcoutim

You’ve earned a nice breakfast after that adrenaline rush! Stop by this Cafe and enjoy the view towards Sanlúcar de Guadiana in Spain. It’ll make a good start to your day in Portugal.

• Walk around the town

This town is dreamy. Colorful houses and flowers in bloom will guide you through the beautiful narrow streets.

• Visit the Castle and Museum

This 13th-century castle is surrounded by big stone walls that you can also explore. From the top of these, you will have a wonderful 360 view of the town and surrounding areas. Moreover, there is an archeological museum and an exhibition of «Islamic board games» inside the castle area.

• Chill at the Beach Praia Fluvial

I was a bit skeptical about this one, but turned out to be my favorite! When I read there was a beach on the riverside I didn’t have high expectations at all, yet I decided to see what it looked like. To my surprise, the Praia Fluvial in Alcoutim is a sandy riverside beach with very nice and clear water. There is a cafe here too and several sun umbrellas. The beach is disabled friendly and they even have a Baywatch during the summer months!

Sanlucar de Guadiana – Things to do

This Spanish town with less than 400 inhabitants is a very peaceful place but attracts many visitors thanks to its renowned cross-country zipline. Here are some of the things you could do in Sanlucar de Guadiana.

• Adrenaline rush

Apart from the zipline adventure, you can take hiking trails in the area and there are also several water sports you can practice in the Guadiana River, such as flyboard, kayaking, paddle surfing, jet skiing, and more.

• Visit San Marcos Castle

A white fortress located to the east of Sanlucar de Guadiana. To get there you’ll need to go uphill. I would recommend checking if they’re open just before start going up.

• Nuestra Señora de las Flores Church

A 16th-century church, with a very Andalusian style that is worth the visit. In front of the building, you will find a statue resembling the traditional religious dance ‘Danza de las Flores’ (flowers dance) which is held in this town every year.

• The windmill viewpoint

Ten minutes away from the town, you can walk to this viewpoint from where you can see the whole town, including San Marcos Castle and a great part of Alcoutim too. It is a peaceful area, perfect for a picnic and sunset watching. 

Where to stay in the area

Do you still need to book your accommodation? Here are some hotel suggestions:

• Hotel D’Alcoutim best option in the Portuguese area
• Hi Alcoutim Hostel in Alcoutim
• Varandas do Vale Furnazinhas Not as close as the others, but less than 10km away in the Algarve area.
• Posada los Pedregales Best option in the Spanish area.
• Los Molinos another good option in Sanlucar de Guadiana.

Other activities in the area

These are some of the best activities you can do in the area

FAQs Spain Portugal Zipline

Since I wrote this article, I’ve been receiving some emails with questions about the activity and the area. Here is a compilation of the most frequently asked questions:

How long is the zipline between Spain and Portugal?

This zipline is 720 meters long

Do I need a passport/visa to cross between the two countries?

No. You don’t need a visa or passport to cross the country, but have with you some identification just in case the Zipline Company needs it to complete your registration.

Is the LimitZero zipline open all year long?

No, they actually operate only a few months a year. You can check their opening times and schedule here

Can I start my visit in Alcoutim before the Zipline?

Yes, you can absolutely do this. Especially if you’re coming from Portugal. Once you finish with your visit, simply hop on the ferry and then go to the Zipline office.

Can I start my visit in Spain before the Zipline?

Yes, you can certainly visit the town of Sanlucar de Guadiana first, then get on the zipline and visit Alcoutim. After your visit, you can take the ferry back to Spain. Unless you’re staying in Portugal.

Longest Zipline in Portugal

The longest Zipline in Portugal is actually the cross-border Spain-Portugal Zipline!

Longest Zipline in Spain

Again, the LimitZero zipline is the longest in Spain