Tour Particular Alentejo: Évora, Wine Tasting and Monsaraz

Nestled in the heart of Portugal’s Alentejo region, the Tour Particular Alentejo offers a captivating journey that unveils the rich history, award-winning wines, and stunning landscapes of this remarkable area. Visitors can enjoy the UNESCO-listed city of Évora, explore the innovative underground cellar of the renowned Herdade do Freixo winery, and wander through the picturesque medieval village of Monsaraz. This personalized experience promises to transport travelers back in time while tantalizing their senses with the region’s exceptional vintages. As the tour unfolds, one can’t help but wonder what other hidden gems await discovery.

Key Points

• This personalized tour offers a guided exploration of the historic Évora District, the award-winning Herdade do Freixo winery, and the picturesque medieval village of Monsaraz.
• The tour provides a customized experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the UNESCO-listed historic center of Évora at their own pace.
• The underground cellar at Herdade do Freixo winery offers a unique tasting experience showcasing the region’s exceptional wines in an atmospheric setting.
• Monsaraz, a winner of the Monument Villages competition, boasts a well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning panoramic views from its hilltop castle.
• Knowledgeable guides offer insights into the rich history, architecture, and winemaking traditions of the Alentejo region throughout the tour.

Personalized Experience

The tour offers a personalized experience with a private guide and vehicle, allowing visitors to explore the Évora District, Herdade do Freixo winery, and Monsaraz at their own pace.

With this tailored approach, guests can delve deeper into the region’s rich history and culture, gaining unique insights from their knowledgeable guide.

Whether it’s lingering in the charming streets of Évora’s UNESCO-listed historic center or savoring the award-winning wines at the underground cellar, the tour caters to individual interests and preferences.

This private tour ensures a more intimate and enriching journey through the Alentejo, providing the flexibility to fully immerse in the destinations at hand.

UNESCO World Heritage

One of the highlights of this tour is the visit to the historic center of Évora, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Évora’s remarkably well-preserved medieval architecture and urban planning have earned it a place among the Oldest European Cities Network, making it a prime example of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Exploring this historic gem, visitors can admire:

• The impressive Roman temple, a testament to the city’s ancient roots.
• The medieval cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles.

The charming narrow streets and traditional whitewashed houses that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

The Praça do Giraldo, a vibrant public square that has long served as the heart of Évora’s community.

Oldest European Cities

Tracing its roots back to the Roman Empire, Évora’s designation as one of the Oldest European Cities reflects its remarkably preserved medieval architecture and urban planning, which have earned it a coveted spot on the Oldest European Cities Network. This ancient city boasts a rich tapestry of historical landmarks, each with its own captivating tale to tell.

Landmark	Age	Significance
Roman Temple	2,000 years old	One of the best-preserved Roman temples in the Iberian Peninsula
Sé Cathedral	13th century	Stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture
Aqueduct	16th century	Impressive feat of engineering that once supplied the city with water

Exploring Évora’s timeless streets is like taking a step back in time, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s enduring legacy as one of Europe’s oldest and most enchanting destinations.

Award-Winning Cellar

Nestled beneath the picturesque vineyards of Herdade do Freixo, the winery’s award-winning underground cellar captivates visitors with its innovative architectural design and carefully curated collection of premium wines.

This subterranean gem, which earned an esteemed architectural award, offers a unique tasting experience that showcases the region’s winemaking prowess.

Guests can explore the cellar’s distinctive barrel-vaulted ceilings and natural stone walls, which create an atmospheric setting for sampling the estate’s acclaimed vintages.

A selection of red, white, and rosé wines, each meticulously crafted to reflect the terroir of the Alentejo region, is available for tasting.

Knowledgeable staff guide visitors through the tasting, sharing the stories and traditions behind the winery’s exceptional products.

The opportunity to purchase bottles to savor at home ensures the Herdade do Freixo experience lingers long after the tour.

Monument Villages Competition

Monsaraz, a picturesque village in the Alentejo region, won the prestigious Monument Villages competition of the 7 Wonders of Portugal, a testament to its rich historical significance and captivating architectural charm.

This accolade celebrates Monsaraz’s status as one of the most well-preserved medieval villages in the country, boasting a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and imposing fortified walls that transport visitors back in time.

The village’s crowning glory is its castle, which sits atop a hilltop and offers breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

Monsaraz’s triumph in this coveted competition underscores its enduring appeal as a must-visit destination for those seeking to enjoy the timeless allure of Portugal’s historic hinterlands.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to the needs of those with mobility challenges. However, it may not be suitable for children under 3 years old or individuals with back problems, as the itinerary involves a significant amount of walking and exploration of historic sites.

The tour’s accessibility features include:

1. Air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable transportation
2. Wheelchair-friendly access to all visited locations
3. Assistance from the tour guide for those requiring extra support
4. Accommodations made for any special needs or requirements

While the tour may not be ideal for young children or those with back issues, it offers a personalized and immersive experience for travelers seeking to explore the historic and scenic wonders of the Alentejo region.

Included in the Tour

This comprehensive tour package includes a variety of features to enhance the overall experience. Travelers can look forward to comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, led by a knowledgeable tour guide who will provide valuable insights throughout the journey. Entrance fees to all the must-visit sites are covered, ensuring a seamless exploration of the region’s historic and cultural highlights. The tour also includes a wine tasting experience at the award-winning underground cellar of Herdade do Freixo, allowing participants to savor the flavors of the local Alentejo wines. Meals are also provided, catering to the diverse culinary preferences of the group.

Included in the Tour
Air-conditioned vehicle	✓
Tour guide	✓
Meals	✓
Entrance fees	✓
Wine tasting	✓

Tour Details

Lasting 8 hours, this private group tour provides a personalized experience exploring the highlights of the Alentejo region.

The tour includes:

• Pickup in Lisbon
• 3-hour visit and guided tour of Évora
• 1.5-hour wine tasting at Herdade do Freixo’s underground cellar
• 1-hour visit and sightseeing in Monsaraz

Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. With wheelchair accessibility, this tour caters to a wide range of travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Contact the Tour Guide if I Have Questions During the Tour?

The tour guide will be available throughout the tour to address any questions or concerns. Participants can simply approach the guide directly or notify the driver, who can relay the message to the guide promptly.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum number of participants. It’s a private group tour, so you can book for as few as 1 person. The private guide and vehicle mean the experience is customized to your group’s needs and preferences.

Can I Request Additional Stops or Changes to the Itinerary?

Yes, you can request additional stops or changes to the itinerary. The tour provider offers a personalized experience and is flexible to accommodate your preferences within the 8-hour duration, though some changes may incur extra costs.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Customers can easily reschedule the tour by contacting the provider, allowing for flexible arrangements in case of unexpected changes in plans.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour includes a wine tasting and other meals, so you may not need to. The tour guide can provide recommendations on where to purchase additional refreshments if desired.

Recap

The Tour Particular Alentejo offers a remarkable journey through the heart of Portugal’s Alentejo region.

Visitors can enjoy the UNESCO-listed city of Évora, savor the award-winning wines of Herdade do Freixo, and explore the picturesque village of Monsaraz, all while enjoying a personalized and seamless experience.

This tour showcases the best of Alentejo’s rich history, exceptional winemaking, and stunning rural landscapes, providing a truly unforgettable adventure.