Until fairly recently the Northern Alentejo remained relatively unknown outside Portugal. This is a predominantly rural province with a “big” sky and wide, open spaces. One of the least populated areas of the country; it has a strong rural tradition and famously generous people.
The scenery is one of rolling plains interspersed with picturesque whitewashed villages and farms. Close to the Spanish border, gently rolling hills and large reservoirs lie below the mountains of the Serra de São Mamede which dramatically rise up sheltering the region and providing vantage points for unbelievable views. Some of the peaks are topped with beautiful fortress towns such as the medieval outposts of Marvão and Monsaraz.
This is the furthest from any of the three Portuguese International airports but the country’s good road access, generally with very little traffic, makes driving easy. The airport at Badajoz (just over the Spanish border) has applied for an international license - if this is granted it is possible that there might be direct flights from the UK.
Easter sees the beginning of the festa season which runs through to September. During this time every town in the region holds its own annual festival - when the serenity of the whitewashed buildings give way to a riot of colourful paper flower garlands heavily decorating every street. During festival time the generally laid-back Alentejanos let down their hair and indulge in sumptuous feasts, washed down with plenty of local wine, against a background of fireworks and bands playing through the night.
The principle Leisure attractions of this region include:
- 4-wheel off-road routes and quad biking
- hiking
- horse riding (there a many riding centres and trekking trails across the hillsides)
- the National Stud at Alter do Chão
- mountain biking
- museums, galleries and places of architectural and historical interest - this region is home to some of Portugal’s finest rural architecture and we would thoroughly recommend visiting the heavily fortified frontier town of Elvas
- river beaches
- game hunting
- target shooting
- the Baja de Portalegre rally
- the north east of the Alto Alentejo has many dams, reservoirs and river beaches. You will be able to find most water sports
- swimming
- canoing
- windsurfing
- fishing
- balloon flights
- light aircraft flying and gliding
- bull fighting - in the Northern Alentejo the Portuguese national sport of football probably takes second place to bullfighting. Most towns have a bullring and fights are regularly held throughout the summer. However, unlike Spain, it is illegal to kill the bull!
The Alentejo provides much of Portugal’s food and wine. Those of you who are not vegetarians, we recommend you try the local pork – from pigs fed on the acorns from the cork oak trees. Those who love cheese should try the ewes’ milk cheese. Some of the favourite local dishes include: Pluck soup from Castelo de Vide; Roast leg of Pork and River fish soup from Arronches; Fried lamb from Campo Maior; Shellfish from Elvas; and the grilled Alentejano beef of Portalegre. The region’s wines tend to be fruity and full flavoured and an enjoyable way to discover more about them is to follow the Alentejo wine route.
Handicrafts in this region include:
- Portalegre tapestries
- Nisa embroideries
- Wrought-iron works
- Hand-painted furniture
- Leather goods
- Glazed and painted pottery and earthenware
- Barragem da Apartadura
- Barragem do Caia
- Barragem do Maranhão
- Barragem de Montargil
- Barragem da Póvoa
- River Sever
Barragem da Apartadura, Near Marvão - swimming permitted, in some places the trees come down to the water’s edge providing great picnic spots.
Barragem do Caia, Near Campo Maior - swimming & fishing are permitted
Barragem do Maranhão, Near Avis - water sports permitted. Also on site is a swimming pool and Club Nautico.
River Sever, at Portagem - The river has been dammed to create a large pool where swimming is permitted. The riverbanks have shady trees and picnic areas. There is also a chlorinated outdoor swimming pool, children's pool, tennis courts, restaurants, café and bars.
This pleasant little town was originally founded by the Romans under the name of Elteri (or Eltori). It was later destroyed by order of the emperor Hadrian following a rebellion by the inhabitants.
The town is dominated by a five-towered castle with a Gothic portal built in 1359. Below the castle is a flower-filled market square, the Largo Doze Melhores de Alter. The agricultural lifestyle of the locals is felt in the town’s tranquil streets.
There are some fine examples of 17th and 18th century houses including the Palácio do Álamo, which now houses the Tourist Office, an art gallery and a library.
There are some fine examples of 17th and 18th century houses including the Palácio do Álamo, which now houses the Tourist Office, an art gallery and a library.
Alter do Chão is perhaps best known for the Coudelaria (stud-farm), founded in 1748 to breed Lusitanian horses for the Royal Family. Set in about 740 acres, the stables are painted in the royal livery of white and ochre – horse lovers can see the famous Portuguese breed “Alter Real”.
This area has a rich and varied cuisine that includes the "sarapatel" (similar to haggis) and a delicious "ensopado de borrego com arroz amarelo" (a rich stew of young lamb served with "yellow" rice).
Crafts include fine works in leather, cork, wood and brass.
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon - 2 hours 15 minutes
- Faro - 3 hours 45 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours 25 minutes
- Badajoz (Spain) – 1 hour 20 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
ARRONCHES
Set on the edge of the Serra de São Mamede, amongst fields scattered with cork oaks and olive trees, this border town was an important stronghold during the wars with Spain. Its whitewashed houses are typical of many Alentejano towns and villages, and the streets leading to the main Church feature Gothic stone portals. There is plenty to see in the town including the castle ruins and several churches.
The main sources of income are farming, olives, cork and light industry. This area has a large variety of flora and fauna – particularly eagles, red deer, wild boars and one of the largest bat colonies in Europe.
The cuisine is typical of the Alentejo and speciality dishes include: Ensopado de borrego (lamb stew), açorda alentejana (bread soup) and its pork sausages are considered to be particularly fine. Regional crafts include cork miniatures and basket ware.
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 2 hours 15 minutes
- Faro – 3 hours 40 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours 50 minutes
- Badajoz (Spain) - 50 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
AVIS
This traditional Medieval Alentejano country town is set close to the Barragem do Maranhão where a number of water sports are permitted.
It has narrow, winding street and houses typically with chimneys to the front. In 1211, Afonso II moved the military order "Freires de Évora" (the first European order of Knights) here to defend Portugal against the Moors. According to legend the town’s castle was built in secret during the night, to avoid alerting the Moors in the morning the half built walls were hidden with branches. The castle is now in ruins.
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 1 hour 50 minutes
- Faro – 3 hours 15 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours 30 minutes
- Badajoz (Spain) - 1 hour 30 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
CAMPO MAIOR
This town became part Portugal in the 12th century. In 1732 an explosion at a gunpowder magazine destroyed the citadel and killed more than one thousand people and the macabre but fascinating Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos) was built in 1766 is entirely lined with the bones of the victims.
It is known for its traditional festival, the "People´s Festival" (Festas do Povo) and everyone works throughout the year making paper flowers to decorate the town.
Campo Maior is famous for roasting coffee (probably the most popular drink in Portugal) and its history is traced in the town’s Coffee Museum. The town also has a Religious Art Museum at the Chapel of Our Lady of Carmel.
It is known for its traditional festival, the "People´s Festival" (Festas do Povo) and everyone works throughout the year making paper flowers to decorate the town.
Campo Maior is famous for roasting coffee (probably the most popular drink in Portugal) and its history is traced in the town’s Coffee Museum. The town also has a Religious Art Museum at the Chapel of Our Lady of Carmel.
The local cuisine is influenced by Spain and local specialities include dog-fish & tomato soup; pork and chickpea stew; and almond and pumpkin tarts.
Approximate Driving Times to Airports:
- Lisbon - 2 hours
- Faro - 3 hours 30 minutes
- Porto - 4 hours 10 minutes
- Badajoz (Spain) - 30 minutes - currently an internal airport, Badajoz has applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
CASTELO DE VIDE
Castelo de Vide is situated amongst the olive groves and chestnut trees in the mountain region of São Mamede. This pretty spa town is full of period houses, monuments, fountains and orchards - and is famous for its roses. Reputed to contain some of the most impressive Gothic entrances in Portugal, the castle is approached along the lanes of the 16th-century village.
This pretty town sits on green slopes and dates from Roman times. Within the town walls are well-preserved churches, fountains, mansions, Gothic doorways and the maze-like Judiaria (Jewish quarter), with its small white houses, cobbled alleys and a 13th century synagogue.
Its traditional Easter and Carnival festivals in Castelo de Vide are popular and all the locals participate.
Its traditional Easter and Carnival festivals in Castelo de Vide are popular and all the locals participate.
Specialities of the local cuisine include: sarapatel (haggis), ensopado de cabrito (kid stew with bread and gravy), migas com entrecosto (pork ribs with a kind of bread-soup) and great liqueurs.
Nearby, is the Barragem de Nisa.
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 2 hours 10 minutes
- Faro – 4 hours
- Porto – 3 hours 20 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (Spain) 1 hour 30 minutes - currently an internal airport, Badajoz has applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
CRATO
Crato is a charming old town. It became prosperous when the headquarters of the Order of the Hospitallers was established here – but it has not recovered its standing which was lost in 1662 when Spanish invaders burned the town.
Features of the town include: an avenue of orange trees leading to the Mother Church; the castle ruins; and, in the centre of the town, the Varanda do Grão-Prior (Grand Prior’s Palace).
The nearby village of Flor da Rosa is famous for clay pottery and a restored monastery.
Approximate Driving Times from Airports:
- Lisbon - 2 hours, 10 minutes
- Faro - 3 hours, 50 minutes
- Porto - 3 hours, 20 minutes
- Badajoz (Spain) - 1 hour, 30 minutes - currently an internal airport, Badajoz has applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
ELVAS
The town of Elvas is approximately 5 minutes drive from the main Lisbon-Madrid motorway and is situated only 12kms from the Spanish border.
The town is steeped with history and regional architecture. The fortifications around the old town are extremely well preserved and there are many sites of interest to visit, including the famous Aqueduct of Amoreira (begun in 1498 and completed in 1622 with a total of 843 arches rising to towers of up to 30 metres (100 feet)), numerous churches, museums, the library and the Roman/Moorish castle which overlooks the town.
Local sports include fishing, in the valley of the river Guadiana, and hunting facilities across the region. The dam of Caia has welcomes fishing and water sports – and the area can be discovered by hiking, bicycle and jeep excursions.
Specialities of the local cuisine include: bread soup; pork and lamb; cured meats; and the local olives and plums.
Local sports include fishing, in the valley of the river Guadiana, and hunting facilities across the region. The dam of Caia has welcomes fishing and water sports – and the area can be discovered by hiking, bicycle and jeep excursions.
Specialities of the local cuisine include: bread soup; pork and lamb; cured meats; and the local olives and plums.
Approximate Driving Times to Airports:
- Lisbon - 1 hour 55 minutes
- Faro - 3 hours
- Porto - 4 hours 20 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (Spain) - 25 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
The village of Esperança is situated in the Municipality of Arronches. Close to the Spanish border, it is on the perimeter of the São Mamede Natural Park, and about 9 kms from the town of Arronches.
The main sources of income are farming, olives, cork and bread.
This village has 2 main annual Festas - Rei Santo which is held 15 days after Easter and Nossa Senhora de Esperança which takes places the first weekend in August.
Places worth visiting include: the churches Igreja Matriz and Igreja do Rei Santo; the historic cave paintings in Vale Junço; the caves at Cavaleiro; the wealth of traditional architecture; the Natural Park of S. Mamede. The local gastronomic speciality is Bolo Frito (Fried Cake) and local crafts include miniatures carved in wood and cork. A market is held on the last Sunday of each month.
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 2 hours 25 minutes
- Faro – 4 hours
- Porto – 4 hours
- Badajoz Airport (Spain) - 55 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
This area has been inhabited since pre-historic times and megalithic remains are scattered through the region.
The town is characterised by white-washed houses with distinctive Alentejo chimneys. Places of interest include: the Mother Church (founded in 1571); the 16th century stone pillory; the clock tower; and the Chapel of the Lord of Martyrs.
The regional handicrafts include: cork and wood; pottery and painted ceramics; embroideries and pieces made of horn.
The town is characterised by white-washed houses with distinctive Alentejo chimneys. Places of interest include: the Mother Church (founded in 1571); the 16th century stone pillory; the clock tower; and the Chapel of the Lord of Martyrs.
The regional handicrafts include: cork and wood; pottery and painted ceramics; embroideries and pieces made of horn.
The local cuisine includes: shark soup; sarapatel (a kind of haggis); bread dishes; lamb stew with bread and a delicious local cake - bolo de folha.
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 2 hours
- Faro – 3 hours 30 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours 45 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (Spain) - 45 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
This area is crossed by the river Tagus where the first dam built on the river, at Belver, creates an area that is good for fishing and water sports, eg rowing and jet-ski, or boat-rides to see the beautiful vegetation and the schist ravines which drop into the water.
There is a fine example of a Roman bridge at Ribeira da Venda). This area produces wine, olive oil and cork; and is also known for cattle breeding.
Activities include horse riding and hiking in the unspoiled countryside.
Local handicrafts include pieces in wood, cork and horn.
The local cuisine includes fish from the river Tagus - fresh eels, lamprey and shad – and hare served with cabbage; wild boar; kid; and lamb.
There is a fine example of a Roman bridge at Ribeira da Venda). This area produces wine, olive oil and cork; and is also known for cattle breeding.
Activities include horse riding and hiking in the unspoiled countryside.
Local handicrafts include pieces in wood, cork and horn.
The local cuisine includes fish from the river Tagus - fresh eels, lamprey and shad – and hare served with cabbage; wild boar; kid; and lamb.
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 1 hour 40 minutes
- Faro – 3 hours 30 minutes
- Porto – 2 hours, 50 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (Spain) - 2 hours - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
MARVÃO
Known to the locals as “The Eagle’s Nest”, because is sits on a hilltop and has the most breath-taking views across Portugal and Spain, this beautiful fortified town is a world heritage site. With a permanent population of about 185, this town thrives on its tourist industry and is set close to the Spanish border in the Serra de São Mamede National Park, approximately 12 kms to the north east of Portalegre.
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 2 hours 20 minutes
- Faro – 3 hours 45 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours 35 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (just over the Spanish border) - 1 hour - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
MONFORTE
A narrow Roman bridge gives access to the small town which is situated on the crown of a fortified hill ("forte" means "strong" and also a "fort" in Portuguese).
Stretching from the ruined, moated castle, the fortified walls enclosed the town, however they were demolished after the end of the last wars with Spain.
The surrounding land is fertile so much of the local economy is agricultural.
Local handicrafts include: wood, cork, stone, horn, wicker, leather and embroideries. The regional cheese is delicious!
Stretching from the ruined, moated castle, the fortified walls enclosed the town, however they were demolished after the end of the last wars with Spain.
The surrounding land is fertile so much of the local economy is agricultural.
Local handicrafts include: wood, cork, stone, horn, wicker, leather and embroideries. The regional cheese is delicious!
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 2 hours
- Faro – 3 hours
- Porto – 3 hours 50 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (just over the Spanish border) - 45 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
This area is characterised by woods of cork oaks, olives, Holm oaks and thick undergrowth.
The little town of Mora has quiet streets. The Mother Church curiously has one of its bell towers next to the main chapel and the other is sited on the other side of the street.
Evidence of pre-historic inhabitants are in the numerous dolmens and megalithic monuments.
The local cuisine particularly favours bread - which is used in meat and fish dishes. Specialities include: "ensopado de borrego" (stew of young lamb served on bread); "migas de espargos" (an asparagus and bread soup); "açorda de bacalhau" (cod with bread); and hearty soups.
The little town of Mora has quiet streets. The Mother Church curiously has one of its bell towers next to the main chapel and the other is sited on the other side of the street.
Evidence of pre-historic inhabitants are in the numerous dolmens and megalithic monuments.
The local cuisine particularly favours bread - which is used in meat and fish dishes. Specialities include: "ensopado de borrego" (stew of young lamb served on bread); "migas de espargos" (an asparagus and bread soup); "açorda de bacalhau" (cod with bread); and hearty soups.
Approximate Driving Times to Airports:
- Lisbon – 1 hour 30 minutes
- Faro – 2 hours 35 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours 35 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (just over the Spanish border) - 1 hour, 45 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
MOSTEIROS
The village of Mosteiros is in the municipality of Arronches and about 5.5 kms from the town. The local economy is supported by: agriculture; olives; cork; and charcoal.
The village has 2 annual Festas - São João (24th June) and Santa Maria da Graça (23rd July). Worth visiting are the churches of Igreja Matriz, Igreja de S. Bento and the Chapel of Monte da Venda; the Water Mill and the River beach.
We would thoroughly recommend sampling the local dish of Carp from the River Caia.
Local crafts include miniatures made from local cork, and basket ware.
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 2 hours 20 minutes
- Faro – 3 hours 25 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours 45 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (just over the Spanish border) - 50 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
A charming small town, to the south east of the River Tejo, Nisa is about 25 kms north west of Castelo de Vide. It has the ruins of a 13th century and fortified walls; two 14th century towers and a fine Baroque church.
Approximate Driving Time To Airports:
- Lisbon - 1 hour 50 minutes
- Faro - 4 hours
- Porto - 3 hours
- Badajoz - 1 hour, 50 minutes - (just over the Spanish border) - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
The village of Pavia is in the Parish of Mora, within the district of Évora. It is a typical Alentejana village with the River Tera to the north and 10 minutes to the south is the village Arraiolos where the famous carpets are made. Pavia is just an approximate 20-minute drive from the main Lisbon/Madrid motorway (A6 – IP7).
A tiny chapel, in honour of St. Denis, has been built into a large dolmen - this strange sight is said to be proof of the strong religion in Medieval times.
More extensive facilities can be found in Mora (15 minutes drive), where the local council is situated and Secondary schools are located. To the south is the University city of Évora (20 minutes drive).
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 1 hour 30 minutes
- Faro – 2 hours 30 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours 45 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (just over the Spanish border) - 1 hour 25 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
PONTE DE SOR
Ponte de Sor derived its name from its original roman bridge, which formed part of the military road connecting Lisbon to Merida . The town belonged to the Templars, was captured during the border conquests and was liberated by the Order of St Benedict. The bridge which stands today on the site of the roman one was built in 1822 by King João VI.
A few kilometres away are the Barragems of Montargil and Maranhão - which both provide a good selection of water sports
Local Crafts include:
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 1 hour 50 minutes
- Faro – 3 hours 30 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours
- Badajoz Airport (just over the Spanish border) - 1 hour 50 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
Famed for its baroque architecture, this ancient city is reputed to have been founded by the Romans. Situated on a hill against a backdrop of the Penha mountains, this is the principle town in the Distrito (municipal district).
Approximate Driving Time to Airports:
- Lisbon – 2 hours 15 minutes
- Faro – 3 hours 30 minutes
- Porto – 3 hours 30 minutes
- Badajoz Airport (just over the Spanish border) - 60 minutes - currently an internal airport, in 2005 Badajoz applied for its International Licence, the outcome of this application has yet to be decided
