Upper Alentejo 

A little about the history of the Upper Alentejo...

1 - A bit about the history of the Upper Alentejo...

Upper Alentejo is a region of Portugal steeped in history and tradition. During the Roman occupation, Upper Alentejo was integrated into the province of Lusitania, enjoying a period of development and prosperity. The Romans built towns, bridges and important roads in the area - establishing trade routes and facilitating communication between towns. The Roman city of Ammaia, in the municipality of Marvão, is a remarkable vestige of this period. 

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Upper Alentejo was invaded by the Visigoths and later by the Moors. The Moors built several fortresses and castles in the area to protect themselves from Christian invasions - one example is Elvas Castle.

During the Middle Ages, Upper Alentejo went through a period of great economic and cultural development, with strong production of olive oil, wheat and wine. This period was also marked by the emergence of fortified cities such as Campo Maior and Portalegre. The town of Campo Maior, in particular, was the scene of a fierce battle in 1811, known as the Siege of Campo Maior. In this battle, the Portuguese forces managed to resist the French invaders.

Today, the region enchants all its visitors with its rich historical and cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, where extensive fields of olive trees and vineyards prevail.

a. Architecture in Alto Alentejo

Like the rest of the Alentejo, the Upper Alentejo is home to traditional houses with whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, tall chimneys and details in bright colors such as yellow and blue.

Many of these rural houses are built on hilltops and are known as “montes alentejanos".

Curiosity. Did you know that the reason they are painted white is because this color helps to reflect the heat of the hot sun, characteristic of the region?

In addition, the Alto Alentejo has a strong presence of castles and fortresses. Among the most prominent are the Castle of Marvão; the Castle of Castelo de Vide and the Fort of Graça, in Elvas.

Today, the region enchants all its visitors with its rich historical and cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, where extensive fields of olive trees and vineyards prevail.

a. Architecture in the Upper Alentejo

Like the rest of the Alentejo, the Upper Alentejo is home to traditional houses with whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, tall chimneys and details in bright colors such as yellow and blue.

Many of these rural houses are built on hilltops and are known as “montes alentejanos".

Fun Fact: Did you know that the reason they are painted white is because this color helps to reflect the heat of the hot sun, characteristic of the region?

In addition, the Upper Alentejo has a strong presence of castles and fortresses. Among the most prominent are the Castle of Marvão; the Castle of Castelo de Vide and the Fort of Graça, in Elvas.

Today, the region enchants all its visitors with its rich historical and cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, where extensive fields of olive trees and vineyards prevail.

a. Architecture in Alto Alentejo

Like the rest of the Alentejo, the Upper Alentejo is home to traditional houses with whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, tall chimneys and details in bright colors such as yellow and blue.

Many of these rural houses are built on hilltops and are known as “montes alentejanos".

Curiosity. Did you know that the reason they are painted white is because this color helps to reflect the heat of the hot sun, characteristic of the region?

In addition, the Alto Alentejo has a strong presence of castles and fortresses. Among the most prominent are the Castle of Marvão; the Castle of Castelo de Vide and the Fort of Graça, in Elvas.

Today, the region enchants all its visitors with its rich historical and cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, where extensive fields of olive trees and vineyards prevail.

a. Architecture in the Upper Alentejo

Like the rest of the Alentejo, the Upper Alentejo is home to traditional houses with whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, tall chimneys and details in bright colors such as yellow and blue.

Many of these rural houses are built on hilltops and are known as “montes alentejanos".

Fun Fact: Did you know that the reason they are painted white is because this color helps to reflect the heat of the hot sun, characteristic of the region?

In addition, the Upper Alentejo has a strong presence of castles and fortresses. Among the most prominent are the Castle of Marvão; the Castle of Castelo de Vide and the Fort of Graça, in Elvas.

2 - The Upper Alentejo region in numbers

The Upper Alentejo region comprises 15 municipalities (belonging to the district of Portalegre): Alter do Chão, Arronches, Avis, Campo Maior, Castelo de Vide, Crato, Elvas, Fronteira, Gavião, Marvão, Monforte, Nisa, Ponte de Sor, Portalegre and Sousel.

* (Population aged 65 or over / Population under 15) * 100

** Price Report December 2024 Idealist 

*** Price Report December 2024 Idealist

2 - The Upper Alentejo region in numbers

The Upper Alentejo region comprises 15 municipalities (belonging to the district of Portalegre): Alter do Chão, Arronches, Avis, Campo Maior, Castelo de Vide, Crato, Elvas, Fronteira, Gavião, Marvão, Monforte, Nisa, Ponte de Sor, Portalegre and Sousel.

* (Population aged 65 or over / Population under 15) * 100

** Price Report December 2024 Idealist 

*** Price Report December 2024 Idealist

2 - The Upper Alentejo region in numbers

The Upper Alentejo region comprises 15 municipalities (belonging to the district of Portalegre): Alter do Chão, Arronches, Avis, Campo Maior, Castelo de Vide, Crato, Elvas, Fronteira, Gavião, Marvão, Monforte, Nisa, Ponte de Sor, Portalegre and Sousel.

* (Population aged 65 or over / Population under 15) * 100

** Price Report December 2024 Idealist 

*** Price Report December 2024 Idealist

2 - The Upper Alentejo region in numbers

The Upper Alentejo region comprises 15 municipalities (belonging to the district of Portalegre): Alter do Chão, Arronches, Avis, Campo Maior, Castelo de Vide, Crato, Elvas, Fronteira, Gavião, Marvão, Monforte, Nisa, Ponte de Sor, Portalegre and Sousel.

* (Population aged 65 or over / Population under 15) * 100

** Price Report December 2024 Idealist 

*** Price Report December 2024 Idealist

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Alfama thus began to lose its importance and, although it wasn't affected by the earthquake, it was left behind.
by the earthquake, it was left abandoned by the central government until the 20th century - being identified
being identified as a dangerous part of the city.

Despite its decadence in the 19th century Alfama saw the emergence of a musical style that is now considered to be an intangible UNESCO intangible heritage - Fado! Born in the streets, bars and prostitution centres of
Alfama, Fado began to be heard at court and gained another kind of prominence.

With the emergence of the fado singer Amália Rodrigues, fado became internationally recognised.
recognised internationally.

Today, Alfama is one of the best known and most visited neighbourhoods in the city. Here
you can feel the neighbourhood life, you can feel the fado, you can feel the essence of Lisbon!

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Livramento Market © Município de Setúbal

@allaboutportugal

©Bernardo Conde

Estação do Oriente © Agenda Cultural de Lisboa

©Bernardo Conde

In Campo de Ourique there is quantity and quality. As you walk around the neighborhood, you'll find all kinds of stores - cafés, pastry stores, restaurants, grocery stores and a variety of stores. It is also home to some of the best schools and colleges in the city, such as the "Liceu Pedro Nunes" and the "Salesianos de Lisboa".

Campo de Ourique is very well located, in the center of the triangle formed by Amoreiras, Estrela and Prazeres. Just an 11-minute walk from Amoreiras Shopping Center and a 15-minute walk from Jardim da Estrela.

The famous streetcar 28, which runs through Lisbon's historic neighborhoods, has its last stop here, next to the Prazeres Cemetery. 

Several streetcars and buses pass through the streets of Campo de Ourique throughout the day. In three years' time, the neighborhood will also have a metro station.
 

3 - Why choose to live in the Upper Alentejo?

One of the main reasons why people choose Upper Alentejo as their home is the quality of life that this region offers.

Here, the pace of life is more serene, making it the ideal place for those looking for a quieter, more relaxed life, away from the stress and bustle of urban life.

The area is known for its hospitality, with welcoming communities that value conviviality and traditions - traditional festivals are common. One example is the festival of Campo Maior, during which the streets are filled with thousands of paper flowers.

In addition, the natural beauty of the Upper Alentejo is absolutely stunning - with a multitude of incredible places to explore, such as the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. Towns such as Marvão, Elvas, Castelo de Vide and Portalegre have a fascinating architectural legacy, with centuries-old churches, castles and walls.

Gastronomy is also a highlight in Upper Alentejo, with traditional delicacies such as São Julião cherries (PDO), Nisa cheese (PDO), Elvas sweet plums (PDO) and Marvão chestnuts (PDO).

3 - Why choose to live in the Upper Alentejo?

One of the main reasons why people choose Upper Alentejo as their home is the quality of life that this region offers.

Here, the pace of life is more serene, making it the ideal place for those looking for a quieter, more relaxed life, away from the stress and bustle of urban life.

The area is known for its hospitality, with welcoming communities that value conviviality and traditions - traditional festivals are common. One example is the festival of Campo Maior, during which the streets are filled with thousands of paper flowers.

In addition, the natural beauty of the Upper Alentejo is absolutely stunning - with a multitude of incredible places to explore, such as the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. Towns such as Marvão, Elvas, Castelo de Vide and Portalegre have a fascinating architectural legacy, with centuries-old churches, castles and walls.

Gastronomy is also a highlight in Upper Alentejo, with traditional delicacies such as São Julião cherries (PDO), Nisa cheese (PDO), Elvas sweet plums (PDO) and Marvão chestnuts (PDO).

3 - Why choose to live in the Upper Alentejo?

One of the main reasons why people choose Upper Alentejo as their home is the quality of life that this region offers.

Here, the pace of life is more serene, making it the ideal place for those looking for a quieter, more relaxed life, away from the stress and bustle of urban life.

The area is known for its hospitality, with welcoming communities that value conviviality and traditions - traditional festivals are common. One example is the festival of Campo Maior, during which the streets are filled with thousands of paper flowers.

In addition, the natural beauty of the Upper Alentejo is absolutely stunning - with a multitude of incredible places to explore, such as the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. Towns such as Marvão, Elvas, Castelo de Vide and Portalegre have a fascinating architectural legacy, with centuries-old churches, castles and walls.

Gastronomy is also a highlight in Upper Alentejo, with traditional delicacies such as São Julião cherries (PDO), Nisa cheese (PDO), Elvas sweet plums (PDO) and Marvão chestnuts (PDO).

3 - Why choose to live in the Upper Alentejo?

One of the main reasons why people choose Upper Alentejo as their home is the quality of life that this region offers.

Here, the pace of life is more serene, making it the ideal place for those looking for a quieter, more relaxed life, away from the stress and bustle of urban life.

The area is known for its hospitality, with welcoming communities that value conviviality and traditions - traditional festivals are common. One example is the festival of Campo Maior, during which the streets are filled with thousands of paper flowers.

In addition, the natural beauty of the Upper Alentejo is absolutely stunning - with a multitude of incredible places to explore, such as the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. Towns such as Marvão, Elvas, Castelo de Vide and Portalegre have a fascinating architectural legacy, with centuries-old churches, castles and walls.

Gastronomy is also a highlight in Upper Alentejo, with traditional delicacies such as São Julião cherries (PDO), Nisa cheese (PDO), Elvas sweet plums (PDO) and Marvão chestnuts (PDO).

3 - Why choose to live in the Upper Alentejo?

One of the main reasons why people choose Upper Alentejo as their home is the quality of life that this region offers.

Here, the pace of life is more serene, making it the ideal place for those looking for a quieter, more relaxed life, away from the stress and bustle of urban life.

The area is known for its hospitality, with welcoming communities that value conviviality and traditions - traditional festivals are common. One example is the festival of Campo Maior, during which the streets are filled with thousands of paper flowers.

In addition, the natural beauty of the Upper Alentejo is absolutely stunning - with a multitude of incredible places to explore, such as the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. Towns such as Marvão, Elvas, Castelo de Vide and Portalegre have a fascinating architectural legacy, with centuries-old churches, castles and walls.

Gastronomy is also a highlight in Upper Alentejo, with traditional delicacies such as São Julião cherries (PDO), Nisa cheese (PDO), Elvas sweet plums (PDO) and Marvão chestnuts (PDO).

What to see and do in the Upper Alentejo?

The city of Elvas is the largest fortress city in the world, with its entire historic center classified as a World Heritage Site. Within its walls, which stretch for around 8 kilometers, you can explore a series of fortifications, such as the Fort of Santa Luzia; the Forts of São Mamete, São Pedro and São Domingos; and the Fort of Graça, one of the most perfect works of Dutch military architecture. At the heart of Elvas is its historic center, full of narrow streets and picturesque squares. After visiting the fortresses, enjoy a meal in the Praça da República. This place, where locals gather to socialize, is popular for its large and inviting terraces. Fun Fact: Did you know that the city of Elvas has nearly 30 churches and convents? Take a day to get lost in its streets and see for yourself. During your stroll, you'll also come across fountains, arches and pillories. A must-see in the Upper Alentejo!

The city of Elvas is the largest fortress city in the world, with its entire historic center classified as a World Heritage Site. Within its walls, which stretch for around 8 kilometers, you can explore a series of fortifications, such as the Fort of Santa Luzia; the Forts of São Mamete, São Pedro and São Domingos; and the Fort of Graça, one of the most perfect works of Dutch military architecture. At the heart of Elvas is its historic center, full of narrow streets and picturesque squares. After visiting the fortresses, enjoy a meal in the Praça da República. This place, where locals gather to socialize, is popular for its large and inviting terraces. Fun Fact: Did you know that the city of Elvas has nearly 30 churches and convents? Take a day to get lost in its streets and see for yourself. During your stroll, you'll also come across fountains, arches and pillories. A must-see in the Upper Alentejo!

The city of Elvas is the largest fortress city in the world, with its entire historic center classified as a World Heritage Site. Within its walls, which stretch for around 8 kilometers, you can explore a series of fortifications, such as the Fort of Santa Luzia; the Forts of São Mamete, São Pedro and São Domingos; and the Fort of Graça, one of the most perfect works of Dutch military architecture. At the heart of Elvas is its historic center, full of narrow streets and picturesque squares. After visiting the fortresses, enjoy a meal in the Praça da República. This place, where locals gather to socialize, is popular for its large and inviting terraces. Fun Fact: Did you know that the city of Elvas has nearly 30 churches and convents? Take a day to get lost in its streets and see for yourself. During your stroll, you'll also come across fountains, arches and pillories. A must-see in the Upper Alentejo!

The city of Elvas is the largest fortress city in the world, with its entire historic center classified as a World Heritage Site. Within its walls, which stretch for around 8 kilometers, you can explore a series of fortifications, such as the Fort of Santa Luzia; the Forts of São Mamete, São Pedro and São Domingos; and the Fort of Graça, one of the most perfect works of Dutch military architecture. At the heart of Elvas is its historic center, full of narrow streets and picturesque squares. After visiting the fortresses, enjoy a meal in the Praça da República. This place, where locals gather to socialize, is popular for its large and inviting terraces. Fun Fact: Did you know that the city of Elvas has nearly 30 churches and convents? Take a day to get lost in its streets and see for yourself. During your stroll, you'll also come across fountains, arches and pillories. A must-see in the Upper Alentejo!

©allaboutportugal

@casafernandopessoa

©visitportugal

@visitsetubal

Gavião has a new attraction that has caught the attention of all its visitors: the Eco Laguna, an outdoor pool with a sandy bottom, waterfall and jacuzzi area. The Eco Laguna is located right in the center of the village and, in addition to a grassy leisure area, the complex houses the new Casa das Artes - a space with two art galleries and a museum dedicated to the Banda Juvenil de Gavião (Gavião's youth band), which has existed for over 30 years. The building also has changing rooms, a bar, a tourist office and a shop/tasting room for national products. Wine tastings are available by appointment. For those who want to extend their dives, there are also two unmissable river beaches in the municipality: Praia Fluvial da Ribeira da Venda and Praia Fluvial do Alamal.

Price normal ticket Eco Laguna 3€

Eco Laguna opening hours

From June 11 to September 10: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 @amoreiras360view

©Tribuna Alentejo 

Did you know that in Santiago do Cacém giraffes, zebras, impalas, wildebeest, ostriches and buffaloes coexist in an area of 45 hectares? It´s true! Badoca Safari Park is located in Vila Nova de Santo André, in the municipality of Santiago do Cacém, and has around 230 free-roaming animals. Embark on a safari adventure and experience the thrill of the African savannah up close! The park also offers a range of other activities: a birds of prey presentation; a lemur presentation; a visit to the primate island; an open-air walking tour and a reptile presentation. "A full day in the Alentejo!"
Normal ticket price 19.90€
Opening hours
From 09h30 to 17h30

With a breathtaking landscape marked by imposing mountains, verdant valleys and lush streams, the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park is a true oasis in the south of Portugal. The park extends over an area of approximately 56,000 hectares and is home to a rich variety of fauna and flora. To discover this protected area, there are six hiking routes on offer, ranging from easy walks to more challenging trails (see here: NATURAL.PT). Within the natural park there are also charming villages that are definitely worth a visit, such as Castelo de Vide, Alegrete and Marvão. When in Marvão, we recommend climbing to the top of the castle to watch the sunset! The guarantee that you won't regret it lies in Saramago's famous words "from Marvão, you can see the whole earth...". Tip. To make the most of your visit, read and comply with the Code of Conduct in Protected Areas. 

With a breathtaking landscape marked by imposing mountains, verdant valleys and lush streams, the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park is a true oasis in the south of Portugal. The park extends over an area of approximately 56,000 hectares and is home to a rich variety of fauna and flora. To discover this protected area, there are six hiking routes on offer, ranging from easy walks to more challenging trails (see here: NATURAL.PT). Within the natural park there are also charming villages that are definitely worth a visit, such as Castelo de Vide, Alegrete and Marvão. When in Marvão, we recommend climbing to the top of the castle to watch the sunset! The guarantee that you won't regret it lies in Saramago's famous words "from Marvão, you can see the whole earth...". Tip. To make the most of your visit, read and comply with the Code of Conduct in Protected Areas. 

With a breathtaking landscape marked by imposing mountains, verdant valleys and lush streams, the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park is a true oasis in the south of Portugal. The park extends over an area of approximately 56,000 hectares and is home to a rich variety of fauna and flora. To discover this protected area, there are six hiking routes on offer, ranging from easy walks to more challenging trails (see here: NATURAL.PT). Within the natural park there are also charming villages that are definitely worth a visit, such as Castelo de Vide, Alegrete and Marvão. When in Marvão, we recommend climbing to the top of the castle to watch the sunset! The guarantee that you won't regret it lies in Saramago's famous words "from Marvão, you can see the whole earth...". Tip. To make the most of your visit, read and comply with the Code of Conduct in Protected Areas. 

With a breathtaking landscape marked by imposing mountains, verdant valleys and lush streams, the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park is a true oasis in the south of Portugal. The park extends over an area of approximately 56,000 hectares and is home to a rich variety of fauna and flora. To discover this protected area, there are six hiking routes on offer, ranging from easy walks to more challenging trails (see here: NATURAL.PT). Within the natural park there are also charming villages that are definitely worth a visit, such as Castelo de Vide, Alegrete and Marvão. When in Marvão, we recommend climbing to the top of the castle to watch the sunset! The guarantee that you won't regret it lies in Saramago's famous words "from Marvão, you can see the whole earth...". Tip. To make the most of your visit, read and comply with the Code of Conduct in Protected Areas. 

©vagamundos

Where to eat and drink:

Taberna do Adro stands in a small house in a typical Alentejo village - a place where tradition meets quality. This typical, rustic restaurant, founded in 1998, is located in the churchyard of Vila Fernando and those who enter say they are surprised by the feeling of having been invited by someone to dine in their living room. In fact, the countless regional pieces that adorn the space immediately take us back to the coziness of our grandparents' homes. And the food is also reminiscent of Sunday family lunches. Among the house suggestions are the roasted chicken with “migas”, the “carne de alguidar” and the “pézinhos de coentrada”.
Average price 15€
Opening hours
Regular hours: 12h30 - 15h30 / 19h30 - 22h30
Sunday: 12h30 - 15h30
(Closed on Wednesdays)

©Taberna do Adro

Confraria is a small (and tastefully decorated) family-run restaurant in Castelo de Vide. It is home to good traditional Alentejo cuisine, with a menu that highlights Alentejo pork and game dishes such as “escabeche” partridge and rabbit with cabbage. For the more indecisive, the Confraria offers 3- and 4-course tasting menus. For dessert, don't miss the sliced orange with olive oil and cinnamon. "To eat and come back for more!"

Average price 15€
Opening hours
Monday to Saturday: 12h30 - 15h00 / 19h30 - 22h00
Sunday: 12h30 - 15h00

Confraria is a small (and tastefully decorated) family-run restaurant in Castelo de Vide. It is home to good traditional Alentejo cuisine, with a menu that highlights Alentejo pork and game dishes such as “escabeche” partridge and rabbit with cabbage. For the more indecisive, the Confraria offers 3- and 4-course tasting menus. For dessert, don't miss the sliced orange with olive oil and cinnamon. "To eat and come back for more!"

Average price 15€
Opening hours
Monday to Saturday: 12h30 - 15h00 / 19h30 - 22h00
Sunday: 12h30 - 15h00

Confraria is a small (and tastefully decorated) family-run restaurant in Castelo de Vide. It is home to good traditional Alentejo cuisine, with a menu that highlights Alentejo pork and game dishes such as “escabeche” partridge and rabbit with cabbage. For the more indecisive, the Confraria offers 3- and 4-course tasting menus. For dessert, don't miss the sliced orange with olive oil and cinnamon. "To eat and come back for more!"

Average price 15€
Opening hours
Monday to Saturday: 12h30 - 15h00 / 19h30 - 22h00
Sunday: 12h30 - 15h00

Confraria is a small (and tastefully decorated) family-run restaurant in Castelo de Vide. It is home to good traditional Alentejo cuisine, with a menu that highlights Alentejo pork and game dishes such as “escabeche” partridge and rabbit with cabbage. For the more indecisive, the Confraria offers 3- and 4-course tasting menus. For dessert, don't miss the sliced orange with olive oil and cinnamon. "To eat and come back for more!"

Average price 15€
Opening hours
Monday to Saturday: 12h30 - 15h00 / 19h30 - 22h00
Sunday: 12h30 - 15h00

Confraria is a small (and tastefully decorated) family-run restaurant in Castelo de Vide. It is home to good traditional Alentejo cuisine, with a menu that highlights Alentejo pork and game dishes such as “escabeche” partridge and rabbit with cabbage. For the more indecisive, the Confraria offers 3- and 4-course tasting menus. For dessert, don't miss the sliced orange with olive oil and cinnamon. "To eat and come back for more!"

Average price 15€
Opening hours
Monday to Saturday: 12h30 - 15h00 / 19h30 - 22h00
Sunday: 12h30 - 15h00

©A Confraria

Located on the main road in Alpalhão, this traditional restaurant is dedicated exclusively to regional cuisine. So, if there's one thing that Regata doesn't lack, it's flavor and simplicity. On the menu you'll find mixed sausages, wild pigeon soup with rice, coriander with fried Alentejo bread and many other unmissable suggestions! Regata is also known for its friendly service... where "everyone is treated in the same way, as if they were regular customers". A restaurant that is sure to stay in your memory!
Average price 17€
Opening hours
Regular hours: 12h00 - 15h00 / 19h30 - 22h00
Sunday: 12h00 - 15h00
(Closed on Mondays)

©Restaurante Regata

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