A land of contrasts
Alentejo is where you’ll find locals lounging in the heat of the day in historic plazas – raising a cap at a passing tourist or offering a toothy smile. The heat, the colours, the hospitality all make up the magic of this still, sedate landscape that lies in the south of Portugal.
Rich, red, rolling hills contrast with the green and silver of wiry cork and gnarly olive trees… lending mystery to a landscape already dotted with sleepy white villages and history-book castles. Alentejo is where you’ll find locals lounging in the heat of the day in historic plazas – raising a cap at a passing tourist or offering a toothy smile. The heat, the colours, the hospitality all make up the magic of this still, sedate landscape that lies in the south of Portugal.
Don’t expect to see many visitors here. If jostling crowds and souvenir shops are what you’re after, you’ve come to the wrong place. Empty roads lead to majestic towns where you’ll be delighted to uncover historical sites. Indulge in hearty red wines, rich cheeses and robust local specialties. This is the interior of Alentejo.
Boundless beaches of glorious white and golden sand front an enormous Atlantic seaboard. Seaside towns offer the best of fresh Atlantic seafood, crisp white wines accompany this fare and ocean-side villages offer up lots of local restaurant choices. In this still undiscovered area, you’ll easily bag the best spot on any beach you care to discover. This is coastal Alentejo.
A land of contrasts that deserves to be visited, explored and experienced. This is a land that will get beneath your skin and keep you coming back for more as you marvel at the diversity of this little-known region.
Our Guide to Alentejo
The best time to visit Alentejo is the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October), when the temperatures are pleasant, and the countryside is in full bloom. Summer can be hot, but it’s perfect for those seeking a quiet escape and vineyard visits.
Alentejo is a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Lisbon. Private transfers and car rentals are the best ways to reach this peaceful, rural region. Helicopter transfers are also available for a more luxurious and scenic arrival.
Enjoy wine tastings at top wineries or explore the region’s rich history at iconic heritage sites. Hiking or biking through the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park offers breathtaking landscapes, while stargazing at Alqueva provides a serene experience.
Nestled between Lisbon and the Algarve, Alentejo is Portugal’s best-kept secret for discerning travelers seeking understated luxury, tranquility, and authenticity. With its rolling golden plains, ancient cork forests, and picturesque whitewashed villages, this region offers an elegant escape from the crowds. The area’s exclusive boutique hotels, vineyard estates, and Michelin-recommended restaurants embody the quiet sophistication that appeals to luxury seekers. Alentejo is also steeped in history—its medieval castles, Roman ruins, and UNESCO-listed Évora tell stories spanning centuries. Beyond culture, the region’s unspoiled coastline along the Costa Vicentina offers some of Portugal’s most secluded beaches, perfect for a private retreat. Whether indulging in wine tastings at family-run estates, spa experiences overlooking olive groves, or stargazing in the Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve, Alentejo provides the perfect blend of refinement, nature, and serenity for the modern traveler.
Évora: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Roman temple, medieval cathedral, and well-preserved city walls.
• Monsaraz: A hilltop village with stunning views of the Alqueva Lake, known for its whitewashed houses and medieval castle.
• Vila Viçosa: Famous for its marble quarries and the Ducal Palace, this small town offers a glimpse into Portugal’s royal history.
• Alqueva Lake: Europe’s largest artificial lake, offering boating, stargazing, and peaceful waterside retreats.
• Marvão: A medieval village perched on a cliff, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The local culinary scene embraces traditional Portuguese flavors and farm-fresh ingredients. Savor dishes like migas, a hearty blend of bread, garlic, and pork, or açorda, a flavorful garlic and cilantro soup with poached eggs. Don’t miss the region’s celebrated red wines, often paired with tasting experiences at nearby wineries.
Alentejo’s charm extends beautifully to families. Children can explore ancient castles in Monsaraz and Marvão, feeling like knights for a day, while parents enjoy the region’s breathtaking panoramas. Families can visit working farms and vineyards, learning how cork is harvested or how traditional cheese is made. The Alqueva Lake offers kayaking, sailing, and swimming in calm, clear waters, ideal for a sunny family day out. Animal lovers can enjoy horseback rides through wildflower-dotted meadows, while young adventurers can go hiking or cycling along scenic trails. Coastal Alentejo adds another layer of fun, with surf lessons, beach picnics, and dolphin-watching tours departing from Sines or Comporta. With its slow pace and welcoming hospitality, Alentejo offers families a genuine Portuguese experience that balances relaxation, education, and adventure.
• Visit the UNESCO city of Évora for architecture and culture
• Explore Vila Nova de Milfontes and Comporta’s pristine beaches
• Go wine tasting in Reguengos de Monsaraz or Vidigueira
• Visit Marvão Castle for panoramic mountain views
• Experience Dark Sky Alqueva for world-class stargazing
• Enjoy olive oil tastings and gourmet farm-to-table dining
• Take a day trip to Lisbon or the Algarve for urban or coastal contrast
Comporta: Just over an hour away, Comporta offers stunning beaches and laid-back luxury.
Lisbon: A 90-minute drive, perfect for a city break after exploring the rural beauty of Alentejo.
Algarve: A 2.5-hour drive south, the Algarve offers golden beaches, luxury resorts, and a lively atmosphere for those seeking a contrast to the peaceful Alentejo region.
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