DAY 1 Arrival in Lisbon & self-drive to Castelo de Vide
Upon arrival in Lisbon, you can immediately pick up your rental car and head to Castelo de Vide, a picturesque village in the Serra de Sao Mamede Natural Park. This area includes the largest mountain range South of the Tagus and heaps of cultural heritage. Due to different microclimates, it is greener than the rest of the Alentejo region.
The extensive, personalized roadbook which you receive after booking, contains tips and tricks on what to visit, where to eat, elaborate descriptions of hiking trails and so much more. If you arrive early today, we can suggest points of interest where you can stop along the way or you can already visit the historic center of Castelo de Vide, the small alleys and colorful houses. Afterwards enjoy a terrace and a delicious meal. There are also a number of small supermarkets in Castelo de Vide.
To visit the vast and sparsely populated region of Alentejo, a rental car is necessary. Public transport is virtually non-existent.
Overnight in Castelo de Vide.
DAY 2 Castelo de Vide hike
After breakfast you can take a nice circular walk from/to Castelo de Vide. The path begins at Castelo de Vide near the church of N. Sra. dos Remédios, leaving the urban area it goes up the slope of the Serra de Sao Paulo's rugged rock formations. Beautiful nature and views unfold themselves as you follow a well-preserved medieval cobblestone road which leads to the highlight of the journey: the Chapel of N. Sra da Penha, an old pilgrimage spot.
Adventurers can also enjoy an optional stretch of via ferrata on the way. It is necessary to make a booking in advance and subject to confirmation.
Walk 9.2 km | about 3.5 hours | +/- 235 altimeters
Would you rather drive to Ammaia roman ruins or visit the olive oil mill at the little hamlet of Galegos?? There are many options for non-hikers as well. Contact us to learn more.
Overnight in Castelo de Vide.
DAY 3 Hike or drive to Marvão
From Castelo de Vide you can either drive or hike to Marvão. Marvão is an impressive settlement on top of a hill, with meters thick walls, old cannons still in place, and if you climb the stairs up to the tower you have infinite visibility over the surroundings. The center of Marvão has been very well preserved and renovated.
The hike takes you along rural areas and over old roads. Part of the medieval pavement is still intact and is flanked by walls. You will come across countless farms along the way. Livestock and olive cultivation are the main activities, sheep run around happy in the meadows. Portuguese cork oaks alternate with stone remains from a bygone era. Chestnut (castanha) forests emerge as you approach Marvão. The Castanha de Marvão is a protected, local product. The last 3 kilometers it goes steeply uphill before reaching the gate to the town of Marvão, at an altitude of 800 meters. If you opt for the hike, we provide a transfer back to Castelo de Vide.
You can also opt for a shorter walk along old smuggling trails and cork oaks. Contact us so we can customize your travel itinerary together.
Walk Castelo de Vide to Marvão 9.6 km | about 3.5 hours | +/- 603 height meters.
Overnight in Castelo de Vide.
DAY 4 To Alqueva Lake, Monsaraz and Mourão
On the way south, towards Monsaraz / Mourão, a stop near Campo Maior is recommended. Visit the Centro de Ciência do Café, a winery and sample a local lunch at the farm's restaurant. Then continue to Alqueva lake. The lake offers many opportunities for relaxation, both on the water: canoeing, rent a boat, water ski,… and on land: walking, cycling, horseback riding ...
The largest artificial reservoir in Europe is perfect for a few relaxing days. With more than 250km2, this lake extends over several municipalities. The fortified town of Monsaraz is located on a rocky hill and dominates the surrounding plains. It offers the most beautiful views of the Alqueva lake. Both Romans and Arabs have lived here. The nearby medieval settlement of Mourão also reveals a rich history in which this country was inhabited by the Moors before Christians conquered it. Just like in Monsaraz, you will find a castle on the outskirts of this town.
This sparsely populated region with little light pollution allows the stars to shine brightly. If you like stargazing, it is best to plan your trip so that you are in this spot at the time of a new moon. With UNESCO support, Alqueva became the first place in the world to receive the “Starlight Tourism Destination Certification”. The Dark Sky Reserve was established and equipped with an observatory.
Overnight in Mourão.
DAY 5 Mourão and Monsaraz
Today you can either choose one of the many beautiful walks in this region, visit the local market and enjoy a cooking workshop with a local, a bike ride, horseback riding or one of the many water activities on the lake.
We suggest a circular hike from Monsaraz, past menhirs and megalithic structures, a baroque fountain and beautiful landscapes. There are many other hiking possibilities. Contact us to customize to your wishes.
Hike 13 km | about 3 to 4 hours | +/- 306 altimeters
Overnight in Mourão.
DAY 6 to Évora
This charming city with mainly white and yellow painted buildings is the favorite of many locals and travelers alike. Because there are several gems not to be missed, we provide a local guide to show you around this university city for half a day.
There are also several places worth while visiting around Evora as well, if time allows. To name a few options:
Arraiolos is a nearby village, famous for its carpets and a peculiar, completely circular castle. The typical Alentejo landscape is dotted with cork trees so you also find a lot of cork items in the small shops.
Near the lovely town of Estremoz you can make your own wine and take it with you, bottled and labeled!
Please contact us to create a customized itinerary.
Overnight in Évora.
DAY 7 To the coast - Costa Vicentina walk
After breakfast it is about a 2.5 hour drive to Zambujeira do Mar at the Atlantic Ocean. After check-in, we provide a transfer to Cabo Sardão so that you can walk back to your new home along one of the stages of the Rota Vicentina. This walk is 9 km long and the duration depends on the number of stops you make on the way.
Overnight in Zambujeira do Mar.
DAY 8 Costa Vicentina hike from Odeceixe
Our transfer to Odeceixe allows you to hike another stunning part of the Rota Vicentina. This is one of the most beautiful stages along the coast. It is mainly a flat coastal hike of 14 km. However, there are stretches where you have to walk through loose sand, along steep cliffs and slippery ground. Sometimes ropes are provided to help you. In case you have any problems or concerns about ankles, knees or vertigo, let us know so that we adjust the program accordingly.
Other possible activities include relaxing by the sea, cycling or surfing.
Overnight in Zambujeira do Mar.
DAY 9 To Lisbon city
Catch a glimpse of beautiful Lisbon before you return home! Count on a 2.5 hour drive to the city. At your city hotel you will receive an envelope containing a VivaViagem card which allows you to use all forms of public transportation in and around the city (bus, metro, train ...). Enjoy exploring the different neighborhoods by the Tagus river!
Overnight in Lisbon.
DAY 10 Bye bye or extension
Today you can fly back home from Lisbon airport or you can choose to extend your trip and combine with other regions in Portugal or even in the Azores. Have an inspirational look at the example itineraries on our website.
We look forward to design a personalized itinerary according to your interests, accommodation preferences, desired travel pace and the time of year you wish to travel.
