For a long time, Alentejo has surpassed the Algarve as the holiday destination of choice for many Portuguese.
The beauty of the Vicentine Coast, combined with its peacefulness, far exceeds the cold waters of the Atlantic for those seeking beach and relaxation during the summer holidays.
However, without overlooking the magnificence of the Vicentina Coast, the true beauty of Alentejo lies inland.
So, in this article, we’ll take you through the we visited in the heart of Alentejo
Évora – The City that is a Book of Portuguese Art History
We start with its capital – Évora. A city with the well-deserved title of UNESCO World Heritage. With its Temple of Diana, the Aqueduct of Água de Prata, its unique Chapel of Bones, the magnificent Évora Cathedral, and its historic center and people, Évora is a must-see destination.
These are just some of the must-see sights when in Évora. To find out the best things to do and see in Évora, click here
Évora Cathedral
Reguengos de Monsaraz – The Town That Feels Like a Village
Next, we arrive at Reguengos de Monsaraz. Or is it just Monsaraz?
The truth is, the history of Reguengos is closely tied to that of Monsaraz, as the municipal boundaries were the same until 1838. After that date, the municipal seat was moved to Reguengos, contributing to its development and eventual elevation to city status.
Its main church is unique for its neo-Gothic style, combined with the light colors typical of the Alentejo region.
Main Church In Reguengos de Monsaraz
S. Pedro do Corval – A Village with Over 20 Pottery Workshops
Next, a stop in S. Pedro do Corval is a must. Not only for the divine black pork cataplana served in local restaurants, but also because it is the largest pottery center in Portugal.
Visiting one of the pottery workshops to see the entire process of creating unique pieces is a must on an Alqueva itinerary.
Traditional Pottery
Monsaraz – The Medieval Village Close to the Sky
Strolling in Monsaraz is like traveling back in time. It’s greeting locals who tell us “go slowly, life is short.” It’s watching the sunset from the top of its castle and thinking “paradise must look like this.”.
With a river beach just a few kilometers away, it is definitely a must-see spot in the heart of Alentejo.
At night, we say goodbye to the views from the castle to immerse ourselves in the magic of the village's narrow streets, which fill with people sharing delicious Alentejo delicacies.
Medieval Gate with a View of Alqueva – Alentejo
Mourão – A Village Where the Main Attraction is Its Castle
We continue our journey to Mourãoto visit its castle atop the hill. Surely, it starts to feel likeeja-vu, but the truth is, the views Mourão Castle, are priceless
View Over the Alqueva Dam – Alentejo
Aldeia da Luz – The Village That Moved
Just a few kilometers fromMourão, we find the newly built Aldeia da Luz. The residents chose to rebuild their village rather than be relocated to other villages. So, this village, though new, keeps its original layout. Near the water, you’ll find the Museum of Aldeia da Luz and its small wooden walkway, which is definitely worth a visit.
The rebuilt Church of Our Lady of Light
Moura – The City of Flowery Streets
When visiting the castle, we were treated to a refreshing (and blessed) Águas Castello. And that’s how we discovered that Mourais the city where these famous carbonated waters are produced. Refreshed, we descended toward the beautiful flowery streets that characterize this small Alentejo
Flower-lined street with the clock tower in the background, Moura –
Portel – The Capital of Cork Oak Groves
When we arrived in Portel, we noticed small changes in the landscape. It became more “mountainous,” where the “lazy” cork oaks are abundant.
Its imposing Castle once again hides breathtaking views over the mountainous landscape. Just a few kilometers away, you can find a small but beautiful river beach.
Ruins inside the Castle of Portel
Alqueva – Much More Than a Dam
As if the beauty of all the villages, towns, and cities weren’t enough, this trip through the interior of Alentejo is closely accompanied by the great Alqueva Lake.
The Alqueva Dam, still fresh in many of our memories from the fierce battle of the passionate people of Aldeia da Luz, who didn’t want to leave their beloved village, saw its final end when the dam gates were opened in 2004.
However, the Alqueva Dam project predates its construction by many years. During our boat trip, we learned that this idea was already planned during the dictatorship by then-leader António Salazar.
Dark Sky Alqueva – The World’s First Starlight Destination
t’s true that the night sky fascinates millions around the world. However, due to light pollution from large cities, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to observe the stars and their constellations.
Therefore, in Dark Sky Alqueva we had the opportunity to see a night sky like never before. You won’t believe how many stars can be seen. Equipped with telescopes, we got a close-up view of our favorite satellite – the moon. But we went even further and saw Jupiter and Saturn with their magical rings.
On a “space” journey, accompanied by an astronomer, we learned to “read” the night sky.
Dark Sky Alqueva
This is definitely a trip to take at least once in a lifetime! Time in Alentejo really does pass slower, and its friendly and genuine people make you want to return every year to discover more of this “so forgotten” region.
Need help planing your trip to this region? Contact us. You can see some videos from this trip. here
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