Visit Alentejo, Portugal

06/18/2024

THE CHAPEL OF THE BONES IS ON MANY PEOPLE’S MUST SEE LIST, BUT THERE ARE TWO MORE NOT FAR AWAY

The Chapel of the Bones in Évora is one of the most popular, and macabre, monuments in Portugal. But is it not the only one… Évora’s Capela dos Ossos is the best known and the largest of the Portuguese "bone chapels” but there are five more in the Algarve and Alentejo regions.

Bone chapels and ossuaries are pretty common in Europe and have existed for centuries. In the past, cemeteries were much smaller and it was common practice to exhume remains years after burial so that others could be buried in the same place.

Official website of Turismo do Alentejo, in the south of Portugal. All information for an unforgettable vacation

06/16/2024

THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET IS ALIVE AND WELL IN THE ALENTEJO

The Mediterranean Diet, which for the fifth year in a row was named the best diet by US News & World Report, is part of the Portuguese culinary lexicon.

The Mediterranean diet is inspired by the dining habits of people who live near the Mediterranean Sea. First coined in the 1960s, the Mediterranean diet drew on the cuisines of Greece, Italy, and Spain, and grew to incorporate the cuisines of North Africa, France and Portugal. And, it is a diet that excels in being completely healthy and well balanced.

The diet is tied closely to the local agricultural output, as in fresh olive oil, vegetable, cereals, fruits and wines. Add to that local dairy products (sheep’s cheese and yogurt), and fish and low-fat meats (goat and sheep).

Official website of Turismo do Alentejo, in the south of Portugal. All information for an unforgettable vacation

06/13/2024

Travel forums are often buzzing with weather — and some voices say that Alentejo is quite warm in summer. But is it? Portugal has a mild temperate climate with wet winters, dry summers. The Alentejo is about 30% of Portugal from the River Tejo to the mountains of the Algarve, and from the Atlantic to the border with Spain. In summer the Alentejo is sunny, warm and quite dry. Temperatures can rise to 90F or 33C inland, but sea breezes keep the coast in the high 70Fs or 20Cs. But, there are three things to consider: There is no humidity; the big open blue sky is often clear of all clouds, which means that as soon as the sun goes down so does the air temperature; and it rarely rains. Nighttime temps can drop as much as 30 degrees in summer.

Official website of Turismo do Alentejo, in the south of Portugal. All information for an unforgettable vacation

06/12/2024

06/11/2024

06/10/2024

Estremoz might just be the perfect place to visit in Portugal. Here's why...

A couple of years back, we bought a farmhouse about 90 minutes from Lisbon, Portugal, near the city of Estremoz. I had been there a few times in the past, and my father did part of his military training there in the 1960s - but we had no family ties or connection to the place.

Now, after a few months of experiencing Estremoz, I have to say - this is one of Portugal's best-kept secrets. While cities like Lisbon and Porto rightly steal all the oxygen, and most bucket-listers just go to Évora and the Chapel of Bones - Estremoz offers an intoxicating blend of history, wine, culture, food, shopping, and natural beauty. The city of about 9,000 people may not be for everyone, but for those who want an authentic experience, it is hard to beat.

Estremoz offers a truly exceptional travel experience that allows visitors to escape the crowds and discover the authentic beauty of Portugal's Alentejo region. Whether you're drawn to its history, architecture, or cuisine, Estremoz is sure to leave a lasting impressio

06/10/2024

June 10 is Portugal’s National Day: This is the story of why Portugal celebrates its worst day, ever….

June 10 is Portugal’s National Day. And while most national days mark a great accomplishment or success – Think the French Revolution and the signing of the Declaration of Independence– June 10 Celebrates the darkest day in Portuguese history. This is the story of why Portugal celebrates its w...

06/09/2024

06/07/2024

06/03/2024

Experience the Alentejo in NYC. Sagres Vacations and Visit Alentejo invite you to Experience Portugal's Alentejo Region. Discover the stunning landscapes, amazing food and wine and rich cultural history of Portugal's largest land area. Savor traditional Alentejo Cuisine and Wines. Don't Just travel, Experience IT! with Sagres Vacations and Visit Alentejo Tourism office.

Click the link below to RSVP
https://zfrmz.com/CV7cqa4UhcqAwIRtFyD5

05/31/2024

THE BIG TRIP: PUT THE ALENTEJO ON YOUR BUCKET LIST

The media is all a buzz about the new "Big Trip:” Years of pent up desire to travel are leading to new ideas of a grand tour. But what does that mean? Obviously different things for different people. But, in the brave new world of travel — it can mean hitting the big sites, or taking things off your bucket list. People seek unique experiences, new ways to learn and explore.

For many that experiential travel plan puts Portugal on the list — and at the top of the Portugal list will be Lisbon. And why not, Lisbon is a truly wonderful city, set above the Tejo River. Many will head to the charming city of Porto and the Douro River Valley, others to the warm beaches of the Algarve. Well, the nature of bucket lists has changed. Expedia called 2022 the year of the G.O.A.T., or the "greatest of all trips.” People want to go big, but not fall into a hackneyed routine. In fact, many travelers are saying that they want to avoid crowds, teeming cities, and long lines. Travel is as real as it comes, and slow travel is not a trend - but a way of being.

So what if you want to see the "real” Portugal? Experience a place that is both authentic, but offers a wide variety of places to stay, from rural luxe, to castles, to quaint inns set in small towns, or on the long Atlantic coast. And has a host of experiences from wine and olive oil marking, to cooking, to birding, to pottery, to living on a houseboat.

Official website of Turismo do Alentejo, in the south of Portugal. All information for an unforgettable vacation

05/30/2024

🌿✨ Skip the Overworn Path: Explore Portugal’s Alentejo! 🌿

Tired of the usual tourist spots? Discover Alentejo, Portugal's hidden gem, and experience:

🏰Stunning Landscapes: Rolling vineyards, olive groves, and cork forests that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Rich History: Wander through ancient castles, Roman ruins, and charming white-washed villages.
🍷Authentic Flavors: Savor Alentejo’s world-class wines and traditional cuisine, from hearty stews to fresh seafood.
✨Peaceful Getaways: Enjoy serene, uncrowded beaches and tranquil countryside retreats.
Warm Hospitality: Meet friendly locals and experience the genuine warmth of Alentejo’s culture.
🌅Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Alentejo. Your adventure awaits!



For more info, visit www.visitAlentejo.com 🌟🌿

05/28/2024

BEYOND NATAS: PORTUGAL'S RICH WORLD OF SWEET PASTRIES

The nata: Portugal on a plate. This tasty ambassador has traveled the world, and brought home honors and accolades. But the famous nata is far from Portugal’s only sweet treat. The variety of sweets and cakes from historic convents can be found throughout Portugal, and the variety in the vast southern region known as the Alentejo is mind boggling. Often based on egg yolks, almonds and sugar (and sometimes sweetened with honey), sprinkled with cinnamon (or not), each Alentejo town has its own pasties to offer.

In Évora, discover pão basto, pão de rala, toucinho do céu, encharcada (from the Convento de Santa Clara), morgados and queijadas; in Alcácer do Sal try the pinhoada; in Beja sample the trouxas de ovos, Santa Clara pastries, tosquiados and queijadas de requeijão (fresh cheese).

Official website of Turismo do Alentejo, in the south of Portugal. All information for an unforgettable vacation

05/28/2024

Take the Train to Spain (from Portugal)? Yes, you can - and fast trains are coming!

The Train to Spain is Not What You Think.... But there is good news!

Portugal and Spain not only share open borders but the Iberian Peninsula. So, you would think that train links would be abundant and fast. And, you would be wrong. Since 2020, Lisbon and Madrid are no longer connected by direct rail, and the cross-border routes fell from 4 to 2. But, the good news i...

05/24/2024

Welcome to our corner of Portugal, where we invite you to rediscover the charm and authenticity that first captivated travelers. Portugal is a great place, but while tourism has had a huge positive impact on the economy, it has also hurt people by driving up rents and prices. On this page we have blogs about ways to enjoy Portugal in a sustainable and responsible way. It's important to those who travel to look at bucket lists with mindfulness and a sense of responsibility. Why do we travel? What is it we want to do? Follow a selfie-stick? Wait in a line? Post to social media from a place so many others have posted from? While the influx of tourists has undeniably boosted the economy, we acknowledge the dual impact it has had on local communities and environment. This page is dedicated to offering insights and blogs on sustainable and responsible ways to enjoy the beauty of Portugal.

If the pursuit of items on a bucket list becomes an obsession, it may lead to neglecting responsibilities or relationships. Constantly seeking personal fulfillment without considering the needs and well-being of others can be perceived as selfish.

05/24/2024

LES MIGAS: UN PLAT PORTUGAIS QUE VOUS DEVEZ ABSOLUMENT ESSAYER!

Les migas à Alentejana font partie des plats les plus populaires de la cuisine de l’Alentejo. Ressemblant à une farce au pain aromatisée aux herbes locales, elles figurent sur la plupart des menus de restaurants. À l’instar des açordas et d’autres mets de la région, son principal ingrédient est le pain de blé, un produit traditionnel de l’Alentejo.

Le mot « migas » provient du verbe « migar », qui signifie « émietter ». Les migas sont une farce traditionnelle à base de pain de blé cuit dans du gras de porc. Il s’agit d’une soupe au pain qui se décline en plusieurs centaines de recettes différentes. Essentiellement, elle est constituée d’eau, de miettes de pain, d’huile d’olive et de sel, et peut contenir d’autres ingrédients comme de l’ail, du bacon, du porc, du chouriço, du poivre, du paprika, des œufs, des feuilles de laurier et des herbes. Selon certains, c’était à l’origine un déjeuner constitué de cubes de pain trempés dans du lait. C’est ensuite devenu un repas complet lorsqu’on s’est mis à l’accompagner de porc local, un autre produit ayant une longue tradition dans la région. En plus du pain et du porc, le plat contient de l’ail, du paprika et du sel.

Site officiel de Turismo do Alentejo, dans le sud du Portugal. Toutes les informations pour des vacances inoubliables

05/22/2024

Yet, it's not just the beauty of the landscape, the scent of the air, or the color of the sky that draws people in. It's the wine, the olive oil, the leisurely pace of life, and the intoxicating yet frustrating essence of Portuguese culture. But, underestimate them at your own peril - this small nation has outlasted empires, invaders, and the passage of time.

As someone of Portuguese descent, being part of such a wonderful yet eccentric bunch provides a sense of perspective and sanity. Learning to accept them for who and what they are, and Portuguese culture for what it is, makes one gladly relinquish preferences for sour cream and half-and-half.

Being Portuguese is a magnificent paradox. It's a culture steeped in both sorrow and joy, stubborn opinions and poetic ideas. An ancient land, blessed with centuries of wisdom yet prone to moments of fervor. Ruled by lunatics, dreamers, warriors, professors, and writers - the Portuguese are an unrul...

05/21/2024

INCURSION DANS LA CAMPAGNE PORTUGAISE: ALTER DO CHÃO – LA DESTINATION IDÉALE\ POUR LES PASSIONNÉS D’ÉQUITATION

Fondée par les Romains sous le nom d’Abelterium, la ville d’Alter do Chão, sise dans les collines à l’extérieur de Portalegre, est le royaume des chevaux lusitaniens.

La ville actuelle a pris son essor au Moyen Âge sous le règne du roi D. Pedro Ier qui fit construire en 1359 des fortifications et un château pour défendre le bourg.

Trônant encore aujourd’hui au cœur d’Alter do Chão, le château est entouré de petits établissements où l’on peut se restaurer et prendre un café.

Site officiel de Turismo do Alentejo, dans le sud du Portugal. Toutes les informations pour des vacances inoubliables

05/18/2024

ESTREMOZ: LA NOUVELLE VENUE QUI S’IMPOSE DANS LA FILIÈRE VITICOLE DU PORTUGAL

Ville de marbre, Estremoz se dresse au sommet d’une colline entre les montagnes de la Serra D’Ossa et la frontière espagnole. Dominant les plaines vallonnées, cette ville fortifiée est subrepticement devenue une destination de premier plan pour les amateurs de bons vins, rivalisant avec les régions viticoles du nord et du centre du Portugal.
À présent, Estremoz peut se targuer d’être entourée de pas moins de deux douzaines d’établissements vinicoles, grands et petits et d’avoir des vignobles au pied de ses remparts! Ces 30 dernières années, les vignobles d’Estremoz ont prospéré et l’industrie vinicole a connu un essor fulgurant. Ces établissements vinicoles se distinguent par leur personnalité. Nombre d’entre eux proposent aux amateurs de vins une incursion dans l’univers de la production vinicole et des dégustations.

Site officiel de Turismo do Alentejo, dans le sud du Portugal. Toutes les informations pour des vacances inoubliables

05/16/2024

At Last! Portugal to Build New Lisboa International Airport by 2034!

The new airport will replace Lisbon’s cramped Humberto Delgado airport, set near the city center.

05/15/2024

DES ÉTOILÉS MICHELIN AU LAC ALQUEVA

Le lac Alqueva, au Portugal, est une destination prisée pour admirer son firmament étoilé.
La région du lac d’Alqueva, au cœur de l’Alentejo, ne connaît pas la pollution lumineuse. Son ciel nocturne, rarement ennuagé, piqueté de milliers d’étoiles, offre un magnifique spectacle.

Les étoiles ne brillent pas que dans le ciel! Esporão est une étoile de la viticulture et de l’oléiculture au Portugal. Connu et reconnu pour ses vins d’excellence et ses huiles d’olive extravierges, Esporão s’attache à concilier développement durable et nature. L’entreprise propose aux touristes de découvrir in situ ses vignobles, ses installations de vinification et ses oliveraies. Son restaurant, discret à l’ambiance intimiste, brille d’une étoile Michelin.

Site officiel de Turismo do Alentejo, dans le sud du Portugal. Toutes les informations pour des vacances inoubliables

05/12/2024

TOURISME DE L’HORREUR DANS L’ALENTEJO

Le tourisme de l’horreur existe bel et bien, à tel point qu’une série Netflix y est consacrée. Ce type de voyage n’est pas pour tous, mais il se prête bien à ceux qui sont à la recherche de destinations non conventionnelles comme les catacombes de Paris, le château de Dracula et la tour de Londres, des lieux qui relèvent du vécu, de la perte, du drame historique et du macabre. Le Portugal recèle de ces endroits qui sortent des sentiers battus, mais le principal site portugais du tourisme de l’horreur est depuis longtemps la Capela dos Ossos à Évora. De nombreux voyageurs rêvent de voir un jour cette petite chapelle située à l’intérieur de l’église Saint-François et construite au XVIe siècle, dont les murs sont ornés de crânes humains et d’innombrables os. Seuls le plafond et le plancher ne sont pas recouverts d’ossements humains. On estime que plus de 5 000 crânes décorent la chapelle, dont un grand nombre proviennent de cimetières monastiques de la région.

Site officiel de Turismo do Alentejo, dans le sud du Portugal. Toutes les informations pour des vacances inoubliables