Terras de Alqueva

Built in the Guadiana River, the water of the Alqueva reservoir covers 250 square kilometres of land that once had olive trees, cork trees, and even whole villages like the old Aldeia da Luz, now submerged and replaced by the new Aldeia da Luz, built from scratch to the image of its predecessor to house its inhabitants. The museum in the village shows you the past and the memories of those days.

Reguengos de Monsaraz is less than two hours from Lisbon, after Évora, on the way to Spain. When you’re arriving in the city, the vineyards on the side of the road stretching along the plains reveal it: we are in the lands of wine. Some of the best wines in Alentejo come from these vineyards and the several wineries and wine tourism businesses in the area allow you to detailly learn about the Alentejo wine and how it’s made.

Continuing on this road, we arrive at the balcony of Alqueva: Monsaraz.

Continuing on this road, we arrive at the balcony of Alqueva: Monsaraz. The medieval village, built within walls, that rises in the Alentejo plains is one of the most iconic places in the region. Whitewashed houses and schist pavement lead us to the Castle, past the church Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria da Lagoa. Take a look around to the landscape stretching out in front of you in all directions. It’s one of the most beautiful images of Alentejo.

On the way to Monsaraz, don’t miss stopping at São Pedro do Corval, the land of potters, where the several potteries alongside the road keep a very important tradition alive.

When we reach Alqueva, we’ll see Mourão with a privileged view of the lake. Like with many lands in the region, like Portel, Terena, or Alandroal, the Castle is the symbol of the town and a historical heritage site worth visiting. After visiting the wall of the dam, go to Moura to explore the Bairro da Mouraria (Moorish Quarter) and the Castle, encircled by olive groves. Those are the olive trees that produce some of the best Portuguese olive oils.