Deep red earth and golden wheat fields punctuate the purity of Portugal's Alentejan plain. Located due east of Lisbon, Alentejo is this charming country's hidden gem. By day we bike through a gentle landscape of gnarled cork trees and white-washed villages. By night we dine on smoked pata negra and strong-bodied red wines and embrace the vibrant atmosphere and warm energy of the Portuguese.
Highlights:
- The traditional pottery of Corval;
- The exquisite hand-woven rugs of Arraiolos;
- Wine tasting at La Quinta do Carmo;
- The Royal Ducal Palace;
- Breathtaking views and miles of wheat fields and sunflowers as we bike through the Alentejan Plain.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 & 2 - Evora
Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Evora, a UNESCO world heritage site, an enchanting town of winding cobblestone streets and whitewashed palacios. Later, our warm up ride takes us through the Alentejan plain, through olive groves, vineyards and golden wheat fields. Famous for beautiful hand-woven tapestries, the village of Arraiolos highlights our next day. Tonight dinner at a local favorite, Jardim do Paco. Accommodation: two nights at Pousada Loios, a 15th c. monastery situated in the heart of Evora.
Day 3 – Monsaraz
We weave our way eastward along an old railway line to the hilltop castle village of Monsaraz. Originally a major defensive castle against would be Spanish invaders, Monsaraz boasts a stunning view of the Guadiana River and Spain. We ride past gypsies on their horses and carts and later stop for a wine tasting at Herdade do Esporao. After lunch, opt for a stop in the village of Corval known for exquisite pottery. Tonight, watch the sun set over Portugal from the castle ramparts. Overnight at the 4 star Estalagem de Monsaraz, a small beautifully appointed hotel with expansive views.
Day 4, 5, & 6 – Estremoz
Ride past the castle of Alandroal and then into Vila Viçosa for a visit of the Ducal Palace, the family home of the most influential Portuguese royal families. We pass through the town of Borbe, a paradise for antique seekers. Our inn, a magnificent 14th c. castle built by King Dinis I for his wife, Queen Isabel, is located in Estremoz, a magnificent hilltop town overlooking the Alentejo plains. The area around town is rich in marble and gives the town a quiet sense of opulence. The next day we loop through Martires and Gloria and stop for a winery visit and tasting at La Quinta do Carmo. Its wines are among the best in the Alentejo region. We circle back through the national park of the Serra de Ossa, home of the largest eucalyptus reserve in Portugal. This evening we toast the week in our inn's vaulted dining room. Accommodation: two nights at Rainha Santa Isabel, a beautiful hotel set in a magnificent 14th c. castle.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price includes:
Meals - all breakfasts, all dinners, but 1; picnic lunch;
Hotels - 4 star historical residences and castles.
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Portugal
Bicycle Touring
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