The charming Portuguese villages of Moura, Mértola, Monsaraz and Marvão captivate travellers eager to explore new horizons, experience the passage of time amongst centuries-old monuments and savour local traditions.
Amidst fortresses that tell the story of Portugal and endless fields in full bloom, the Alentejo exudes a sense of calm. Close by and characterised by a ‘slow’ philosophy that infects every visitor with its gentle rhythms, this Portuguese region is an ideal destination for a spontaneous spring break to make the most of the fine weather.
Monsaraz, a white gem on the shores of Lake Alqueva
Monsaraz has preserved its heritage from times gone by intact. After passing through its medieval walls and winding through the cobbled streets, where the whitewashed houses reflect the sun, visitors can enjoy the views from its castle. Situated on the shores of Lake Alqueva, the village boasts some of the best vantage points for observing and photographing a landscape where the blue of the water blends with the green of spring.
Once the walk is complete – which should also include stops at the Church of Nossa Senhora da Lagoa and the local craft shops, where you can purchase one of Monsaraz’s traditional woollen blankets – it is time to round off the visit with experiences such as a hot-air balloon ride. Near the village, we recommend sampling the excellent regional wine at wineries such as Herdade do Esporão and exploring the megalithic remains of the Crómlech de Xerez. Furthermore, it is worth waiting until nightfall to marvel at the spectacular night sky, as the area is also part of the Dark Sky® Reserve.
Marvão, a well-preserved medieval village
Just a few kilometres from the Spanish border and perched on a promontory 850 metres above sea level, Marvão is one of the most striking villages in the Alentejo. Its beautiful fortress, surrounded by gardens, holds stories of Visigothic and Arab heritage, whilst also serving as a vantage point over the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. The secret is to visit at sunset to capture the Alentejo’s special light and experience its silence, broken only by the sounds of nature.
The local taverns are the perfect refuge for tired and hungry travellers. The menu usually consists of tapas featuring olives, cheeses or cured meats, as well as traditional dishes based on old recipes. It’s best to take advice from the locals.
Mértola, a village with an Arab spirit
Regarded as a “museum town” due to its significant Islamic heritage, Mértola is a small village nestled on the banks of the River Guadiana. Among its little houses with their yellow and blue details, you’ll find an ancient 12th-century mosque, now converted into a Christian church, as well as ten museums that are ideal for learning about the town’s history. The flower-lined streets lead to the castle, which for centuries was considered the most impregnable fortress in western Iberia.
As the weather warms, Mértola’s idyllic setting invites visitors to enjoy water-based activities such as boat trips or kayaking on the river, from which one can also take in breathtaking views of the town as a whole.
Moura, a haven beside the Guadiana
Also situated near Lake Alqueva, the spa town of Moura is home to the largest and best-preserved Moorish quarter in Portugal. Its Arab-style layout features the castle, with its circular tower to which a clock was added in the 19th century; the remains of an ancient wall; the Arab Museum; and the ruins of a convent of Dominican nuns.
Its location amidst olive groves makes Moura one of the best destinations for discovering this Alentejo speciality, starting with a visit to the Olive Oil Museum, housed in one of the region’s oldest oil mills, and ending with a tasting of the liquid gold. The fine weather also invites you to explore the area’s hiking trails, one of the most popular activities in spring.
About ALENTEJO
The Alentejo is situated in southern Portugal, between the Tagus River and the Algarve. It is a vast and predominantly rural region. The beauty of its landscape and the quality of its archaeological, monumental and architectural heritage, together with its excellent cuisine and wines, undoubtedly invite visitors to discover the region. Tourism promotion in the Alentejo, carried out by the Alentejo Regional Tourism Promotion Agency, benefits from EU funding through Alentejo 2030, Portugal 2030 and the European Union.
Further information at: www.visitalentejo.pt/en/
Featured image: ©Visit Alentejo
Source: NEWLINK Group
