Alentejo Full Day Tour

The picturesque and delightful village is located between the beautiful cities of Evora and Estremoz. Once of big geographical and military importance, this Alentejo village with walls which still protect its residents on the mountain top feels like an old warrior who patiently waits visitors.

The imposing castle or Paço Ducal de Evoramonte is very different from many others built at the same time. The work is a reconstruction of the original project, which was destroyed as a result of an earthquake in 1531. The castle is formed by four turrets arranged in a quadrangular format, which give it an aspect of military bulwark. Enjoy seeing from the terrace the impressive view of the Alentejo fields, illuminated by a beautiful sunset.

This white and noble city can be divided into two separate areas that testify to its different stages of development: the group of medieval houses near the castle and modern town outside the walls. Estremoz as a rich cultural heritage in which the major feature is the Castle with its medieval walls. This village also became very famous for the quarrying and trading of its high-quality white marble. In fact, this region makes Portugal the second largest exporter of marble in the world.

Estremoz Castle was built in the 12th century, even though there must have been some sort of fortification since Roman times. It changed hands between Christians and Muslims until the 13th century. Back then, there were reconstruction work. Later, under King Dinis, the Royal Palace was also built.
Many prominent figures and important parts of the history of Portugal have been in Estremoz Castle. One major example was the venue that, in 1497, King Manuel handed Vasco da Gama the command of the fleet that would arrive to India.

This extremely beautiful medieval town has succeeded in preserving its own distinctive characteristics over the centuries. Walking through the streets of Monsaraz is like going back in time, for it’s a truly unique place. The most immediate visual impression is the whitewash and schist of its houses and buildings. Monsaraz is really an open-air museum of history.

Along the wall you’ll reach Monsaraz Castle. Built in the 14th century, it’s classified as a National Monument of Portugal. Around 1830 the castle started to be used as some sort of bullfighting ring. Today, it serves this purpose mainly during the annual festivities. Monsaraz Castle is a unique touristic spot in Portugal. It is one of the most splendid places to look at the wonderful Alqueva Dam. This is the largest artificial lake in Europe and one of the greatest Portuguese constructions of the century.

Situated in one of the most fertile regions in the south of Portugal, Vila Viçosa was often the center of some of the most important moments in the country’s history. The Palace owned by the most powerful noble family in Portugal (with direct relations to the Royal Family). The Ducal Palace in the village is an extraordinary building and a must-see in the region.

This delightful city exudes Portuguese charm and boasts a vast array of fascinating historical monuments. Evora was historically a major trading and religious center, a former importance that is reflected in the sheer variety of tourist sites, all of which are all conveniently contained within the city’s ancient walls. From the Diana’s Temple to the Bone Chapel passing by the Cathedral all is history in this town and all is worth seeing.

This town has two main attractions: its castle and its carpets produced by the local craftsmen and women since the sixteenth century. Some art historians have devoted themselves to studying this art and divide it in three eras: the first period based on compositions that brought the decorative influences of Persian carpets; the second brought popularly inspired designs such as figures or animals; and the third period with much more stylized patterns.

You can see and understand all the process of the cork products since withdrawn from the trees until they get to the stores. All with the explanations of the factory owner.

We can book a wine tasting in some of the most interesting and historical winemakers in this area. In here you can try out the Portuguese wine and understand its history and cultural importance. For wine lovers it’s a must-do.

You can visit an Olive Oil Farm and see all the process while talking and sharing knowledge with the owners. You can also try out some biological products from the area to enjoy the olive oil. And if you like to live truly amazing experiences book a lunch in there with the owner’s family and share the real food and histories of these people.