ALENTEJO
Alentejo is Portugal’s biggest region, occupying almost a third of the national territory. Having such a wide area it comprises a big variety of landscapes, from hilly terrains to flat plains and gorgeous beaches. Tourism has grown slowly, respecting nature and making the most of the surrounding natural playground.
Alentejo Interior is the sub-region located more inland and is a joy to discover with time. This territory has real authenticity, from the valuable cultural and ethnographic heritage to the great quality local dishes and wine. To take in all that this region has to offer, we need to slow down the pace. In the countryside of Alentejo the clock ticks slowly and no one rushes, which makes it the perfect place to unwind and recharge batteries. In this subregion there is Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, the incredible Alqueva lake, never ending plains where animals graze, Vale do Guadiana Natural Park, castles and very old villages. It’s also where the UNESCO cities of Évora and Elvas are located.
On the west coast of Alentejo locals have a close relation to the sea and fresh fish and seafood are a given. There are many beautiful beaches, which are a delight to explore doing short road trips. On the northern part of Alentejo Litoral lies Comporta, a boho chic beach destination that has been featured in many international magazines. The southwestern coast of Alentejo is part of the Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park, a protected area filled with wild beaches and perfect for hiking and surfing.
Alentejo Interior is the sub-region located more inland and is a joy to discover with time. This territory has real authenticity, from the valuable cultural and ethnographic heritage to the great quality local dishes and wine. To take in all that this region has to offer, we need to slow down the pace. In the countryside of Alentejo the clock ticks slowly and no one rushes, which makes it the perfect place to unwind and recharge batteries. In this subregion there is Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, the incredible Alqueva lake, never ending plains where animals graze, Vale do Guadiana Natural Park, castles and very old villages. It’s also where the UNESCO cities of Évora and Elvas are located.
On the west coast of Alentejo locals have a close relation to the sea and fresh fish and seafood are a given. There are many beautiful beaches, which are a delight to explore doing short road trips. On the northern part of Alentejo Litoral lies Comporta, a boho chic beach destination that has been featured in many international magazines. The southwestern coast of Alentejo is part of the Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park, a protected area filled with wild beaches and perfect for hiking and surfing.
- Main towns: Évora and Beja.
- Highlights: Natural Landscapes; Gastronomy; Wine; Historical and Cultural Heritage; Beach; Water Sports; Arts & Crafts.
- Weather: Temperatures are nice during the whole year. Inland temperatures can be quite high during the Summer months. Near the coast the sea breeze and the wind lower the real feel.
- Getting in and out: Lisboa's airport is 1 hour and 15 minutes driving to Comporta and 1 hour and 30 minutes driving to Évora.
- Getting around: Having a car to drive around is highly recommended.
- Nearby regions: Lisboa, Estremadura & Ribatejo and Algarve.
- Journal Posts: Comporta; Serra de São Mamede Natural Park; Cheese & Wine;