Imagine vast plains in shades of green and gold, charming old towns painted in blue and white, and long, wild beaches. Welcome to the Alentejo!
Time goes by at a slower pace in this region, inviting you to discover the rich cultural heritage, savour the delicious traditional cuisine and enjoy unforgettable landscapes.
In summer, the long, hot days are an invitation to swim at the magnificent beaches of the Alentejo coast and to calmly contemplate the sunset over the sea or the region´s golden plains. If you prefer milder temperatures, in spring the fields are filled with wildflowers, and in autumn the vineyards are cloaked in shades of red and gold, making this the ideal time to visit wineries and taste fine wines. These are also the best periods to take to the walking trails and explore the countryside. In winter, savour the local cuisine and the warmth of a fireplace in a peaceful, cosy environment.
There are several ways to get to the Alentejo. Most airlines have flights to Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon. Trains and buses run from the capital to various locations in the region. If you choose to travel by car, you will have greater freedom to explore this area, which has an excellent road network.
Meals rich in flavour and regional ingredients. Alentejo cuisine is famous for being delicious and traditional. The region´s typical dishes include migas (wheat bread fried in pork fat), açorda (bread soup) and Alentejo-style pork.
For dessert, make sure you try siricaia (egg pudding) with Elvas plums and Evora cheesecake. To accompany your meal, try the traditional Talha wine with its inimitable, profound flavour, fermented in clay pots.
Explore the historic legacy of the Alentejo, where the past comes to life in every town and village. Experience the grandeur of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its imposing Roman temple and cathedral, icons of a rich cultural heritage.
In Beja, visit the medieval castle towering over the landscape and boasting panoramic views of the vast Alentejo plain. Walk through the streets of Monsaraz and sense the magic of history in its winding streets and medieval castle. In Elvas, visit the impressive walls and aqueduct, testaments to bygone defensive systems and conquests.
This area is a true natural paradise. The Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Nature Park is one of the most important stretches of the European coast, and features several unique species of fauna and flora. Its steep cliffs and stunning landscapes attract both specialists and nature lovers. Here, you will see ospreys, the world's only colony of white storks nesting in the coastal rock formations and one of the last places in Europe with sea otters in their natural habitat.
The flora, rich in endemic species such as Biscutella vicentina, and the beaches, extremely popular among surfers, make this area a must-visit destination for people in search of beauty and peace and quiet.
