The Alentejo is the largest region in Portugal, stretching west to the coast, east to the Spanish border, and south-east from the Tagus River down to the Algarve. As well as its beautiful Atlantic coastline and beaches, the Alentejo offers vineyards, olive groves, farms, and a fascinating history including Palaeolithic carvings, medieval dwellings, Visigothic churches and Roman monuments.  

Inland there are a number of historic fortified hilltop villages to visit including Estremoz, Rerdondo, Monseraz, and Marvão, the latter with a castle with landscaped gardens where visitors can climb to the highest tower. Other historic towns include Portalegre, known for its textile industry, including a Tapestry Museum, and Castelo de Vide with its medieval castle, as well as an old synagogue, now a museum.

As well as plenty of cultural sites, the Alentejo is one of the top wine regions in Portugal, known for its excellent red and white wines. As home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, with its world-famous olive oil, Alentejo wine, and beaches, the area’s gastronomic delights also include fresh local seafood, game, bread, cheese and wine. For lovers of nature, there are vineyard tours available, walking and bicycle opportunities, as well as plenty of birds and rare plants.  

Visitors can be tempted by the wines at Adega da Cartuxa winery, which is located in Évora, a beautiful 16th-century monastery called Convento da Cartuxa.  Adega de Mayor is another winery located in stunning surroundings, which offers tours and wine-tasting. Other recommended wineries are João Portugal Ramos, where visitors can enjoy tapas with the wine, as well as exploring the vineyards and the cellars, and the other is the Herdade das Servas.

The luxury rental villas we are featuring are mainly located in the centre of Alentejo, near Evora, which is easily accessible from Lisbon (about 1 ½ hour drive), and around an hour’s drive from Comporta and the coast. With its 2000 years of history, Evora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, History-lovers will be drawn to Evora's Roman temple and aqueduct, as well as a medieval cathedral.