Set out on a captivating journey from Lisbon to the enchanting Alentejo region. This full-day tour promises to unveil the treasures of Évora, a UNESCO-listed town steeped in Roman, Gothic, and medieval history. Explore its well-preserved ruins, marvel at the Chapel of Bones, and venture to the Almendres Cromlech, one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved megalithic sites. With private minivan transportation and a small group of fellow travelers, this personalized experience offers insights into the beliefs and rituals of the region’s ancient inhabitants. What secrets will these ancient stones reveal?
Key Points
- Explore the UNESCO-listed town of Évora, featuring well-preserved Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and the Chapel of Bones.
- Visit the Almendres Cromlech, one of the largest and best-preserved megalithic sites in Europe, dating back to the Neolithic period.
- Set out on a full-day tour with private minivan transportation and a small group size for a personalized experience.
- Gain insights into the beliefs and rituals of the region’s ancient inhabitants through the mysterious stone arrangement at Almendres Cromlech.
- Convenient hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless and efficient journey to the historic sites.
Overview of the Tour
This full-day tour offers a captivating exploration of Évora, a UNESCO-listed town in Portugal’s Alentejo region, and the nearby megalithic site of Almendres Cromlech.
Évora is renowned for its well-preserved Roman ruins, which you’ll discover with the insights of a knowledgeable guide. You’ll also visit the Chapel of Bones, a unique and thought-provoking landmark.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by private minivan, and a group size limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.
With the convenience of the included transportation and the expertise of your guide, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of this fascinating region.
Visiting Almendres Cromlech
The tour’s first stop takes visitors to the remarkable Almendres Cromlech, one of the largest and best-preserved megalithic sites in Europe. This enigmatic arrangement of over 90 standing stones, some reaching up to 5 meters in height, offers a glimpse into the ancient past and the beliefs of the region’s Neolithic inhabitants. As the guide shares insights into the site’s history and theories surrounding its purpose, guests will have the chance to explore the massive stones, ponder their mysterious origins, and imagine the rituals and ceremonies that may have taken place here centuries ago.
| Feature | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Number of Standing Stones | Over 90 |
| Tallest Stone Height | Up to 5 meters |
| Site Age | Neolithic Period |
Exploring Historic Évora
After exploring the enigmatic Almendres Cromlech, the tour moves on to the historic UNESCO-listed town of Évora, a highlight of the day.
Évora’s remarkably well-preserved old town invites visitors to step back in time, with its Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and charming medieval streets.
The group will have the chance to explore the town’s rich history as the guide leads them through the key sights. They’ll admire the impressive Praça do Giraldo, a lively square surrounded by 16th-century arcades.
The tour also includes a visit to the Chapel of Bones, a macabre yet fascinating structure decorated with the remains of thousands of people.
Exploring Évora’s historic heart is sure to be a memorable part of the day.
Seeing the Chapel of Bones
Typically, the tour includes a visit to the captivating Chapel of Bones, a macabre yet fascinating structure decorated with the remains of thousands of people.
Located within the Church of St. Francis, the chapel’s walls, columns and even chandeliers are adorned with human skulls and bones. Visitors are struck by the stark contrast between the sacred space and the eerie decor.
The guide provides insight into the chapel’s history, explaining that it was created in the 16th century to convey the message of the transitory nature of human life.
Exploring the chapel offers a unique and thought-provoking experience, challenging visitors to reflect on mortality and the human condition.
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
The tour provides convenient hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off, making it easy for travelers to join the excursion without hassle.
The private minivan transports guests to the historic town of Évora, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey. This service allows participants to avoid the inconvenience of navigating unfamiliar roads or public transportation, allowing them to fully enjoy the tour experience.
The pickup and drop-off option caters to the needs of diverse travelers, whether they’re staying in a hotel, arriving at the port, or coming from the airport. This seamless transportation service enhances the overall convenience and accessibility of the Évora and Megaliths Full-Day Group Tour.
Transportation by Private Minivan
The private minivan transports guests comfortably to the historic town of Évora, providing an efficient and seamless journey.
Equipped with WiFi, the minivan ensures a pleasant travel experience as participants make their way to the UNESCO-listed destination.
With ample space and modern amenities, the vehicle accommodates the small group size, making the journey to and from Évora relaxing and convenient.
The private transport also includes hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off, further enhancing the seamless logistics of the day trip.
Travelers can sit back, enjoy the scenery, and arrive at the ancient Roman ruins and well-preserved town without the hassle of navigating on their own.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes a comprehensive package of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. It covers hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off, as well as private guide services and transportation by a comfortable private minivan equipped with WiFi. Bottled water is also provided for participants.
However, the tour excludes food, drinks, and gratuities, allowing travelers to explore local cuisine and compensate the guide at their own discretion. With this arrangement, the focus remains on the sightseeing and cultural exploration, leaving the details of meals and tips to the traveler’s preferences and budget.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The tour offers a convenient meeting point at the Palácio Foz in Restauradores Square, or travelers can request pickup from their hotel, apartment, port, or airport.
This makes it easy for participants to join the tour regardless of their starting point. The guide will ensure a smooth pickup, allowing everyone to sit back and enjoy the journey without worrying about transportation.
Whether travelers choose to meet at the designated location or have the guide come to them, the tour provides a hassle-free start to their Évora adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Safety Measures Are in Place for the Tour?
The tour includes safety measures such as a private minivan with WiFi, bottled water, and a multilingual guide. Group size is limited to 8 travelers, and infant seats are available. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
While the tour involves moderate walking, the guide can accommodate travelers with mobility issues. The private minivan transportation and availability of infant seats make the tour accessible for those with limited mobility.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour does not include food and beverages, so bringing personal provisions is allowed and encouraged to keep comfortable during the day’s activities.
How Long Is the Total Duration of the Tour?
The total duration of the tour is a full day. The tour includes hotel/port/airport pickup and drop-off, visiting the historic town of Evora, and seeing key sites like the Almendres Cromlech and Chapel of Bones. Moderate walking is involved.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the private guide and make adjustments to the planned activities within the tour’s scope. However, the core visit to Évora and the megalithic site remains.
Recap
This captivating full-day tour offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the rich history and enigmatic wonders of Évora and the Almendres Cromlech.
Visitors will be enchanted by the UNESCO-listed town‘s well-preserved Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and charming medieval streets, as well as the macabre yet fascinating Chapel of Bones.
The tour culminates at the Almendres Cromlech, one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved megalithic sites, providing insights into the beliefs and rituals of the region’s ancient inhabitants.
