Alentejo Region

Costa Vicentina, in National Geographic Traveler's top list

Monday, 08 November 2010 00:00

Portugal's Southern Atlantic coast has recently been recognized in National Geographic Traveler's seventh annual "99 Coastal Destinations Rated", a list that ranks and evaluates destinations around the world. The Southern Atlantic coast, known as Costa Vicentina, hosts one of Portugal¹s largest natural reserves. It has been remarked as of great interest to nature-lovers for its cliffs and migrating bird populations, while its waves and beaches attract surfers. Because it is a natural reserve, restrictions on commerce and building have left the landscape in beautiful form. This study was based on the evaluations of 340 panelists whose expertise ranged from ecology and geography to photography and tourism. The panelists, in anonymous and objective discussions, measured current factors like cultural integrity and aesthetic appeal, while also considering future outlooks. The location was ranked on the verge of all top-rated locations, only missing scores held by places like New Zealand and Hawaii by a few points. Against its European contestants, the coast placed comparatively high.

Alentejo Tavern Trail

Sunday, 10 October 2010 00:00

The City of Grandola and seven “tabernas” organize in early June an annual edition of the Tabernas route in the Alentejo, taking the visitor to places such the 150-year old Taberna do Agostinho in Santa Margarida da Serra where they serve up traditional regional dishes such as Moelas, cuttlefish in tomato sauce, pork and brains, chicken in roasted pepper sauce and other treats. The idea is to try the traditional cuisine and rebuild the joy as a place to meet, have fun and talk. Other taverns include: Taberna dos Mosqueiroes, Cafe Triunfo, A Taberna, Casa Dimas & Justense.

Pestana Unveils Tróia Green Project

Thursday, 23 September 2010 00:00

Pestana Hotels & Resorts has unveiled its latest project on the Portuguese mainland. Covering 100 metric acres of beach-side terrain, the Pestana Tróia Eco-Resort & Residence will offer a 150-room apart hotel, 43 apartments, 35 semi-detached townhouses and a wide range of sport and facilities, including a clubhouse and large spa, with first-phase construction due to start in the fall. Located less than 28 miles south of Lisbon, barely an hour's journey from the airport, the Tróia peninsula was first settled by the Phoenicians and later served as the Roman fishing port known as Cetobriga from 1 AD. Reachable by ferry from Setúbal, Tróia boasts 10 miles of beaches, as well as one of the most challenging 18-hole championship golf courses in Portuga today.

Spend some relaxing time on board Alqueva’s cruise boats or houseboats.

Sunday, 05 September 2010 00:00

Since 2000, Alqueva’s huge lake has progressively transformed the area’s landscape and ensured a gentler summer climate in the Alentejan hinterland. The Alqueva dam is ideal for practising various water sports and also offers the possibility of sailing through its waters on houseboats. The Alentejo also has many other dams of variable dimensions, built in the 20th century, scattered from north to south - from Montargil to Santa Clara.

Filipe Monte Hotel & Spa - new project in the Alentejo

Sunday, 29 August 2010 00:00

Filipe Mount Hotel & Spa, a four-star facility in Alpalhão, Nisa will focus on nature and health with some 50 rooms located less than five kilometers from the spa complex of Fadagosa (opened last year). The project has already obtained the support of Tourism of Portugal and will work with the nearby Naturtejo Geopark.