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Deep red earth and golden wheat fields punctuate the purity of Portugal's Alentejan plain. Located due east of Lisbon, Alentejo is this charming country's hidden gem. By day we bike through a gentle landscape of gnarled cork trees and white-washed villages. By night we dine on smoked pata negra and strong-bodied red wines and embrace the vibrant atmosphere and warm energy of the Portuguese.
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• The traditional pottery of Corval
• The exquisite hand-woven rugs of Arraiolos
• Wine tasting at La Quinta do Carmo
• The Royal Ducal Palace
• Breathtaking views and miles of wheat fields and sunflowers as we bike through the Alentejan Plain
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Day 1 & 2 Evora
Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Evora, a UNESCO world heritage site, an enchanting town of winding cobblestone streets and whitewashed palacios. Later, our warm up ride takes us through the Alentejan plain, through olive groves, vineyards and golden wheat fields. Famous for beautiful hand-woven tapestries, the village of Arraiolos highlights our next day. Tonight dinner at a local favorite, Jardim do Paco.
• Two nights at Convento do Espinheiro, a 15th c. convent now a 5 star luxury hotel and spa.
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Day 3 Monsaraz
We weave our way eastward along an old railway line to the hilltop castle village of Monsaraz. Originally a major defensive castle against would be Spanish invaders, Monsaraz boasts a stunning view of the Guadiana River and Spain. We ride past gypsies on their horses and carts, stopping in the village of Corval known for exquisite pottery. Tonight, watch the sun set over Portugal from the castle ramparts.
• Overnight at the 4 star Estalagem de Monsaraz, a small beautifully appointed hotel with expansive views.
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Day 4, 5, & 6 Estremoz
Ride past the castle of Alandroal and then into Vila Viçosa for a visit of the Ducal Palace, the family home of the most influential Portuguese royal families. Our inn, a magnificent 14th c. castle built by King Dinis I for his wife, Queen Isabel, is located in Estremoz, a magnificent hilltop town overlooking the Alentejo plains. The area around town is rich in marble and gives the town a quiet sense of opulence. Tonight we dine in style at Quinta do Carmo winery, owned by Baron de Rothschild. Winemaker Joachim Roque and his charming wife, guide us on an illuminating exploration of this beautiful estate and its magnificent wines. The following day, spectacular views await us as we loop through the national park of Serra de Ossa, home of the largest eucalyptus reserve in Portugal. Continue to the wine town of Redondo and later toast the week at the splendid Sao Rosas restaurant.
• Two nights at Rainha Santa Isabel, a beautiful hotel set in a magnificent 14th c. castle.
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"I like the fact that your itineraries allow for biking as well as time to stop and smell the roses along the way. I think it is a very good blend of biking and sightseeing."
Michelle Lapides
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Dates: Apr 21-26, May 19-24, Jun 16-21, Sep 15-20, Oct 13-18
Length: 6 days/5 nights
Level: 1 B
Daily Mileage: 15-35 miles of gently rolling terrain
Cost: $3480
Single Supplement: $600
Meals: All breakfasts, all dinners, but 1; picnic lunch
Hotels: 4 star historical residences and castles
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