The wide open plains of Alentejo stretch out south of the river Tagus to the Algarve and from the Spanish border to the Atlantic, a vast rural province characterized by rolling grasslands, wheatfields and groves of cork and olive trees, covering a third of Portugal’s mainland. An area of austere beauty and contrasting colours, the countryside is a delight for nature lovers, and its magnificent walled towns and medieval castles scattered across Alentejo are fascinating for anyone interested in exploring the varied historical and cultural heritage of one of the most distinctive but least known regions in southern Europe. It also produces some of the best wines in Portugal!
Vendas Novas lies on fertile soil between the streams of Canha and Marateca, and has an artillery museum. Evora, classified as a World Heritage Site for the harmony and preservation of its urban landscape, has a museum, a Roman temple, Moorish alleys and many beautiful churches and convents. Redondo is well-known for its wine and potteries (olarias) – the potters can still be seen churning out their wares and painting them at the Olaria Jeremias. Arraiolos is a typical whitewashed village famous for its carpet workshops and its 16th century town hall with a permanent tapestry exhibition. Estremoz, the centre of the marble quarries and trade, has a lively market and tradition in pottery that has barely changed since Roman times. The market centre of the region is Portalegre, with beautiful manors and medieval castle, and its fine ancient tapestries.
Castelo de Vide is a thermal spa with a medieval castle and Jewish quarter with the oldest synagogue in Portugal. To the south lies Marvão, an enchanting town notable for its impressive 13th century castle and the wonderful views this affords. The city of Beja retains the richness and variety of its historical treasures – once an ancient Roman town, it was a Muslim cultural centre later on, and its Queen Leonor Museum has valuable archaeological finds. Serpa has a medieval castle with an archaeological museum, and also a clock museum and several other historical churches and chapels.
On the banks of the river Sado, Alcaçer do Sal has interesting medieval streets and buildings, and is close to the nature reserve of the Sado estuary. Santiago do Cacem has a majestic castle of Arab origin, and nearby is the archaeological site of Mairobriga, one of the best preserved Roman urban centres.
The traditional fishing village of Sines is located between the Cape of Sines and the rocky projection of Pontal, and is famous as the birthplace of the navigator Vasco da Gama.
The west Atlantic coast is dotted with small bays and white sandy deserted beaches backed by rocky cliffs. The most popular seaside resort is Vila Nova de Milfontes, where many water sports including sailing and fishing can be enjoyed.
Odemira, on the river Mira, presents landscapes contrast-ing with the extensive rocky shoreline, pinpointed by small beaches and a rural interior of hilly and forested land.
Castro Verde is located on a hill surrounded by a huge plain among the brooks that form the Maria Delgada streamlet, near the river Corbes, and is famous for its production of copper and tin. Local crafts include willow chairs and Alentejo blankets.
Mertola, an important archaeological centre, with its Moorish castle, church and museums, sits high above the river Guadiana, and is a perfect location to explore the beautiful river.
With its whitewashed villages, walled towns and historical and cultural heritage, the wide golden plains of Alentejo are waiting to welcome you!
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