Alentejo

The Alentejo region begins just north of Lisbon, stretches south to the Algarve, and extends east to the Spanish border. This is a land of “slow living,” defined by golden wheat-covered hills, endless vineyards, and the famous cork oak forests. For travelers, Alentejo is the place to escape the crowds, enjoy excellent boutique wineries, and discover whitewashed fortified towns that seem frozen in time, far from the worn tourist trail.
The heart of a visit to the region lies in the fascinating cities of Évora and Beja. Évora, a museum city declared a World Heritage Site, will surprise you with an ancient Roman temple and the mysterious “Bone Chapel.” South of it lies Beja, the capital of the southern district, offering an impressive castle with panoramic views over the endless plain and a peaceful rural atmosphere.
In eastern Alentejo, there are quite a few towns with fortresses and castles that served throughout history to defend the border with Spain. Many travelers pass through Alentejo on a trip that continues to neighboring Spain’s Extremadura, which shares similar characteristics.
Alentejo is a perfect destination for those seeking deep history, fine cuisine, and open landscapes that are hard to find elsewhere.