Portugal - Discovering the Alentejo

I've always been drawn to off-the-beaten-path destinations, which fits perfectly with being an adventure and touring ambassador. This trip to the Alentejo region in Portugal was a fantastic opportunity to explore a lesser-known part of the country. A special thanks to TAP Air Portugal, Visit Portugal, and Visit Alentejo for hosting this incredible trip and providing me with the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of the Alentejo.

Often overshadowed by the Algarve, this region offers a unique and authentic experience for travelers seeking something beyond the typical tourist hotspots. With its medieval towns, charming villages, stunning landscapes, vineyards, cuisine and more, this region is a bit of an undiscovered secret to many. The Alentejo is a great addition to a Portugal itinerary, especially if you're visiting Lisbon or exploring the northern or southern regions.

On our way from Lisbon, we stopped at a local vineyard for a delicious lunch and wine tasting, and a tour where we had a great introduction to the region's winemaking traditions, also learning lots about growing and harvesting cork..

Our next stop was Evora, the capital of the Alentejo and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Evora itself is a treasure trove of Roman, Moorish, and Gothic architecture. Beyond its historical significance, A really charming town with cobbled streets, quaint squares, and a vibrant atmosphere. One of the most memorable attractions here is the Chapel of Bones, a macabre yet fascinating chapel decorated with human skulls and bones. This unique site is a must-see for those interested in history and culture. Praca do Giraldo, the central square is a great spot to soak up this town, sit in one of the cafes or restaurants and watch the world go by, with a fountain centre piece, this is the point where around 8 different streets converge.

After our time in Evora, we stayed at the 5* Convento do Espinheiro, a historic building dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Located on the outskirts of Evora, this former convent offers a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing atmosphere. There is a wide range of accommodation throughout this region, ranging from small B&B’s, hotels such as this stay, to boutique and more modern options depending on the location.

Alqueva Lake.

One of the highlights of our trip, europe's largest artificial lake. This tranquil oasis offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. I opted for a leisurely paddleboarding session, others in the group took a boat around the lake, however there are also opportunities for kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing. After a morning on the water, we enjoyed a delicious lunch and more wine, at the 4* Herdade dos Delgados, a family owned and run hotel and spa that I would highly recommend for not just their excellent food, but for the lake location. Perfect for star gazing which many guests travel here specifically for.

From here we went onto the nearby medieval village of Monsaraz. This charming car-free village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Alentejo. A great spot to purchase local handicrafts such as unique pottery and hand woven blankets.

Exploring Serpa and Beja

Following our visit to Monsaraz, we made an overnight stop in Serpa, a town located in the Beja district. Known for its strong agricultural heritage, Serpa offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Alentejo. We took some time the next morning to explore the medieval castle in Beja, a 13th-century fortress that sits high above the town, providing stunning panoramic views.

From Beja to Comporta

We headed from Beja through the countryside towards the coastal area of Porto Covo and then up to Comporta. We spent some time walking through the sleepy cobblestoned village of Porto Covo and down to the beautiful sandy coves, before moving up the coast with a delicious lunch in a fish restaurant, frequented by locals and tourist alike. With more food and wine consumed (rude not to !) we then moved onto our next overnight stop, Comporta. I was pleasantly surprised on this part of the trip as to the diverse range of activities available. In addition to the lake-based activities and walking, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure seekers. Horseback riding, biking, jeep tours, hiking, diving, archery, and 4x4 driving are just a few of the activities on offer. The coastline is also well-known for surfing, making it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts.

Our final destination was Comporta, a charming coastal village known for its pristine beaches, unspoiled nature, and bohemian atmosphere. It is surrounded by the ocean, sand dunes and rice paddies which was completely unexpected, and whilst this village is becoming more and more “trendy” it still manages to retain its authenticity alongside a more upmarket, yet boutique feel.

On our last day, we made a stop in Troia, a popular beach destination with a Roman history. We embarked on a walking tour that took us for a leisurely stroll through the pine forests and onto the "Rota de Garum," the ruins of a Roman fish-processing complex. From here we then took a boat ride on the Sado River. As a bonus, we were very lucky and treated to a sighting of dolphins in the river estuary.

A Culinary Delight: The Alentejo is renowned for its hearty and flavourful cuisine, which often features pork (the best pork i have tasted !), lamb, and game, accented by herbs and spices. The region's cheeses are also famous, and I was pleasantly surprised by their quality and variety. Of course, no trip to the Alentejo would be complete without indulging in the local wines. The region's vineyards produce a wide range of excellent wines that pair perfectly with the hearty dishes.

The Alentejo is a hidden gem that deserves to be explored. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, diverse range of activities, and delectable cuisine, it's a destination that will appeal to travellers of all ages and interests. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, the Alentejo has something to offer everyone. While driving offers the most flexibility, organized tours can be a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive.

So please do get in touch to plan your next adventure...