Let me just start by saying that castles are awesome. They just are. Every time I go into one or see one in the distance, I can’t help but travel back in time and imagine myself in a time of conquest and honor, plotting ways to either penetrate those rock-solid fortresses or protect it from the enemy as it approaches from afar.

Well, if you’re anything like me, you’re in luck because you can’t go too far in Portugal without finding a castle. Especially in the South, the last region to be reconquered from the Moors, and the East, by the border with the ever-threatening Spain. And the Alentejo, as lucky may have it, is both a southern region and has a border with Spain, so castles are always just a stone’s throw away.

But first things first. Let’s clarify the criteria used to define what a castle is or is not. A palace is not a castle, that one should be pretty evident. A walled city is not a castle either, which is why a city as important as Évora doesn’t have a castle despite being walled. For a monument to be classified as a castle it should fulfill two criteria: there should be a keep (or at least a watchtower) and it should be surrounded by walls. Is that clear? Okay, let’s dive right in, then!

1. MARVÃO CASTLE

It is located at one of the highest points in the Serra de São Mamede. The mountain is quite steep and is a natural defense point. In addition to its military features, the Marvão Castle is mainly appreciated for the surrounding landscape. That’s why it’s worth taking a stroll through the village along the wall corridor, ending at the keep, from where, as a popular saying goes, “you can see the backs of the birds” when they fly.

2. CRATO CASTLE

Situated in the charming town of Crato, this castle has a rich history that harks back to the 12th century when it was constructed by the Knights Hospitaller. It has witnessed periods of both tranquility and conflict, making it an important historical landmark. The town was also deeply connected to the Order of Saint John, and it remains a center of historical significance in the region.

3. VALONGO CASTLE

Valongo Castle’s origins are somewhat mysterious, but it is known to have been constructed during the medieval period, potentially to defend the region from Moorish invasions. The town of Valongo, with its ancient streets and typical architecture, encapsulates the history of Alentejo, with stories of battles and cultural exchange.

4. ESTREMOZ CASTLE

Located in the town of Estremoz, the castle dates back to the Roman era and was later expanded during the Moorish rule. Its strategic location near the border with Spain made it a vital stronghold in the region. The town has a long history tied to Portuguese royalty, and it remains an important cultural and historical center in the region.

5. VILA VIÇOSA CASTLE

The castle was initially built during the 13th century and renovated in the 16th century when the town became connected to the crown. Vila Viçosa has deep royal connections, as it was the birthplace of several Portuguese monarchs. The castle itself has played a central role in the region’s history, with its imposing architecture reflecting the power and prestige of the Portuguese royalty.

5. EVORAMONTE CASTLE

The town of Evoramonte is best known for the signing of the Treaty of Evoramonte in 1834, which marked the end of the Portuguese Civil War and the beginning of constitutional monarchy in Portugal. The castle, with its strategic positioning surrounded by the peaceful Alentejo countryside, is the village’s highlight.

6. ARRAIOLOS CASTLE

Right in the heart of Arraiolos, this castle has a history that traces back to the Moorish period, with the current structure dating from the 13th century. The town of Arraiolos is renowned for its intricate woolen tapestries, and the castle itself has witnessed centuries of Portuguese history, including periods of Moorish, Christian, and royal rule.

7. ALANDROAL CASTLE

Perched in the town of Alandroal, it was built in the 13th century during the Christian Reconquista, strategically positioned to protect the region from Moorish incursions. The town, which grew around the castle, retains its medieval charm, with a rich history intertwined with battles and multiculturalism.

8. MONTEMOR-O-NOVO CASTLE

Montemor-o-Novo Castle, with origins dating back to the 12th century, has been an essential part of the city’s history. Montemor-o-Novo has been a key player in the region’s past, from its Moorish heritage to its prominence during the Portuguese Age of Discoveries.

9. REDONDO CASTLE

Unlike a lot of castles in this list, the Redondo castle feels a lot more integrated into the surrounding town. It’s still at the highest point of the town, but the white houses built both outside and inside the walls make it feel like a continuation of Redondo, and not its military stronghold.

10. JUROMENHA CASTLE

The Juromenha Castle, perched dramatically above the Guadiana River, is a historical fortress with origins dating back to the 12th century. Its strategic location and well-preserved defenses tell tales of the region’s turbulent past. The castle played a vital role in safeguarding the border and was the site of various skirmishes during the Reconquista. The surrounding village shares in this rich history and offers visitors a chance to step back in time, with remnants of its medieval past found in its architecture and layout.

11. TERENA CASTLE

Situated in the quaint village of Terena, this castle was constructed in the 13th century by the Knights Templar, serving as both a military stronghold and a place of religious significance. Terena’s long history is deeply intertwined with the castle, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the heritage of both the castle and the village.

12. MONSARAZ CASTLE

Perched on a hill overlooking the Alqueva Lake this postcard-village is a historical gem with roots in the Roman era, though much of its current structure was shaped during the Moorish occupation. Monsaraz, with its charming streets and well-preserved architecture, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the stories of the past, from its Roman and Moorish heritage to its Portuguese identity.

13. MOURÃO CASTLE

With its stunning views over the Alqueva Lake, Mourão is an emblem of historical importance. The castle and the town have deep connections to the region’s past, where conflicts, fortifications, and strategic significance are etched into the very stones. Mourão’s history is both a living testament to the past and a welcoming destination for explorers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

14. NOUDAR CASTLE

The Noudar Castle has the unique curiosity of being a fortress without a village to protect. This castle’s function, like every other castle’s is border protection but, unlike other castles in the Alentejo, it never saw a village grow from its walls, making it an isolated location. It’s not easy to reach it, but the natural park that surrounds it is perfect for treks and exploration.

15. MOURA CASTLE

Dominating the town with what remains of its towers and walls, the castle of Moura was built by the Portuguese at the beginning of the 14th century, taking advantage of the fortifications left by the Arabs. In the second half of the century, a second walled enclosure was added to shelter the growing population. Highlights of the fortified complex include the rectangular keep and a circular tower on which a clock was added in the 19th century.

16. BEJA CASTLE

The castle, and in particular its keep, is the city’s best-known and most emblematic monument. It is a Gothic fortress, whose construction began in the 13th century, shortly after the Christian conquest of the city, and continued throughout the 14th and possibly 15th centuries. In addition to the castle, the walls that surrounded the medieval city dating from the same period are still visible, with twenty-eight towers and their respective walls remaining.

17. SERPA CASTLE

The castle and the walls of Serpa dominate the surrounding Alentejo landscape and can be seen from a great distance. The fortification of this site dates back to Roman times and was later occupied by people from northern Europe and later by Muslims. A curious fact is the keep, which was badly damaged by a brutal gunpowder explosion when Serpa was besieged in the 18th century during the War of the Spanish Succession. The damage is still visible today at the entrance to the castle.

18. MÉRTOLA CASTLE

The Mértola Castle is a military structure with a walled enclosure whose main feature is the keep, built in 1292. It is an imposing monument that dominates the historic center and is one of the main attractions on the town’s heritage circuit, which mirrors the various cultures that have inhabited the Alentejo over the centuries.

19. SINES CASTLE

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Sines – the birthplace of Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama – offers a front-row seat to maritime history. The town’s maritime ambiance is a sensory delight, with the invigorating scent of sea salt in the air and the rhythmic sounds of waves crashing on the shore, creating a mesmerizing historical and coastal experience.

The beach is probably one of the first things that comes to mind when you hear the word “Portugal”. It is also likely to be one of the last when you hear the word “Alentejo”.  For most, the place to go for a swim in Portugal is the Algarve, and for good reason since its beautiful beaches have attracted visitors for decades.

But if you’re going on a summer vacation, the last thing you want is to face crowds when you’re trying to relax, and that’s when the Alentejo comes into play.

Being the largest region in the country, the Alentejo stretches from the border with Spain to the Atlantic Ocean and boasts a number of incredible sunbathing spots, often much less crowded, more unique, and cheaper than those in the Algarve. And you don’t even need to be on the coast to enjoy a cool dip in the Alentejo!

1. São Torpes Beach

This beach has the particularity of having the warmest water in the whole area due to its proximity to the thermal power station’s cooling system. It is also the first beach from Sines with the least polluted water.

For surfers, this can be a perfect spot, with several options, next to the jetty and in the middle of the beach with slightly bigger waves. The bottom is sandy, so there are no dangers of rocks.

2. Samoqueira Beach

It is considered by visitors to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world (due to the divine scenery that surrounds and caresses us). Intimate, it meanders between the cliffs, offering emerald waters in a paradisiacal setting.

Caves, islets, natural pools, and a freshwater waterfall complete a mystical setting that enchants and captivates. No words can describe it, no photo can dignify it – given the magnitude of the view and the sense of a day spent there.

3. Pessegueiro Island Beach

This never-ending beach is not located on Pessegueiro Island, but it’s directly in front of it. Legend has it that there is even an underground (and underwater) tunnel connecting the island to the mainland, although no evidence has ever been found.

This beach is perfect for crowded days since it’s a bit further from the village of Porto Covo. Here, you can have an ocean bath with the smell of the countryside. The road to get there from the village is also one of the most scenic in Southern Portugal.

4. Malhão Beach

Quiet and wild, you can find it between Porto Covo and Vila Nova de Milfontes. It has areas with and without rocks and allows you to walk almost to Pessegueiro Island. The swell of the water is ideal for surfing.

Given its length, it caters to all tastes: you can spread out your towel next to other bathers or in a more secluded area. White sands complete this idyllic setting in the heart of the Alentejo coastline.

5. Furnas Beach

Located near Vila Nova de Milfontes, on the left bank of the Mira River, this is a river beach with a strong maritime influence. At low tide, the beach extends beyond the mouth of the River Mira, forming small coves in the sand between the rocks.

Water sports enthusiasts can windsurf, sail, or canoe along the river, where the waters are much calmer.

6. Almograve Beach

The Almograve Beach, also known as Praia Grande, has a very long and wide stretch of sand. It is located near the village of Almograve. The waters are a bit choppy, the result of the rocks breaking off along the entire bathing area. The top of the cliff is topped by large dunes.

To the north, the beach is bordered by a cliff protrusion called Ponta dos Azulejos and to the south by a similar one called Ponta da Ilha. In the center is the iconic Rocha Furada. From this rock to the south, the beach is known as Meia Praia.

7. Zambujeira do Mar Beach

This beach is surrounded by high cliffs, from where you can see a stunning panorama of the ocean. It is bathed by a sea with a strong swell, which gives it good conditions for sports such as surfing and bodyboarding. This beach is very popular during the summer, especially during the Sudoeste Festival.

To get a breathtaking panoramic view of the beach climb up to the viewpoint at the top of the northern cliff – the best place to photograph the sunset, where there is also the Chapel of Our Lady of the Sea, which dates back to the 1960s.

8. Amália Beach

The Amália Beach owes its name to the fact that it was the retreat of Portugal’s greatest fado singer. Amália Rodrigues had a house at the top of the cliff which she used to visit to replenish her energy.

The beach is wild and very beautiful. To find it, you walk along a path lined with a stream and tunnels formed by the vegetation. The view from the top of the cliff is breathtaking. A steep staircase and some ropes give you access to the beach.

9. Monsaraz River Beach

This recently-built beach has to have one of the most beautiful backdrops in Portugal, with the dazzling village of Monsaraz on top of its hill. It was only made possible by the Alqueva Dam, which gave the whole region a lot of new possibilities for leisure and tourism.

The Monsaraz River Beach has excellent infrastructures that provide visitors with all the support they could need: grassy and sandy areas, a picnic area and a children’s playground, a floating pool with a bathing area for children and adults, and the possibility of practicing various water sports.

10. Amieira River Beach

In front of a breathtaking landscape, it offers 600m of sand, making it the largest beach in the Alqueva Dam region. But that’s not all! It also has a grassy area where you can relax and enjoy the shade provided by the parasols. For the little ones, crystal-clear, shallow waters are the perfect option.

This little paradise offers excellent support infrastructures and access conditions. It already has three large parking lots, another for motorhomes, and a picnic area. You should also be aware that there is a first aid station at your disposal should you need it.

Over and Out

The Alentejo is quickly becoming Portugal’s most famous not-so-secret hidden gem and the endless possibilities it offers to those who visit it is its greatest weapon. Who knew you could sunbathe and take a refreshing dive in Portugal’s hottest region?

Well, now that you do, make sure to explore as many beaches as you can. A lot of them are not easy to reach, making them nearly untouched by outsiders. So make sure to bring a map. And sunscreen. Lots and lots of sunscreen!

In northern Portugal lies Peneda-Gerês National Park – a land of serenity hidden within dense forests. Covered in rugged mountains, mesmerizing waterfalls, serpentine roads, and long-standing castles and villages, the region is a top destination for anyone who wants to take a break from the mundane and dive deep into a natural and historical haven. Let’s take a look at 6 reasons to visit Peneda-Gerês National Park.

1. The Region Holds Geological and Archaeological Value

If you’re looking for a unique experience that will allow you to reconnect with nature on a deeper level and, at the same time, transport you back in time, Peneda-Gerês National Park is an excellent choice. Not only is it of undeniable beauty in terms of natural landscapes, but it’s also a true geological and archaeological treasure – a sanctuary that makes time stand still.

Although the oldest human signs in the park date only from 6000–3000 BC, which is unsurprising, considering the area’s geography), the park is home to granite rocks deposited 380–275 million years ago!

The Meda Da Rocalva granite landscape is regularly visited by thousands of tourists – no wonder it’s among the park’s most famous places! It is situated in Vilar De Veiga in the municipality of Terras De Bouro. Together with Roca Negra and Cutelo de Pias, Meda Da Rocalva is part of the group authorities call As três magníficas (The Three Magnificent Ones).

Furthermore, it is believed that the park was shaped into the landscape we see today during the Variscan orogeny that occurred during the Late Paleozoic. In easier terms, the Variscan orogeny was a geologic event during which mountains were built. Additionally, some hill peaks show glacier traces in the form of U-shaped valleys and flakey rocks.

In short, geology enthusiasts will undoubtedly have an amazing time in the park while immersing themselves in natural elements that formed millions of years before our time!

2. The Park Is Rich in Historical and Religious Sites

The earliest signs of human establishments in Peneda-Gerês National Park date from 6000-3000 BC. As such, you may stumble upon dolmens and other types of megalithic tombs dating from roughly 3000 BC. The park is also historically enriched by the Roman Geira road and the multiple mile markers.

Of particular fascination for tourists interested in the historical background of northern Portugal is the village of Vilarinho das Furnas. The territory was intentionally flooded in the early 1970s. During the summer, the low water levels reveal remains of the lost village, including once-inhabited houses and pathways.

Another tourist attraction located very close to one of the park gates is the Castle of Lindoso. It’s a medieval castle that further adds value to the region’s historical heritage and enriches any visitor’s experience. The castle is thought to have been built in the 13th century and has gained its notoriety for playing a significant role during the Restoration of Independence thanks to its location close to the border.

Amidst the vibrant nature of the park lies the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peneda (Santuario de Nossa Senhora da Peneda), dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows (Nossa Senhora das Neves). It is thought that she had appeared at the site during the Middle Ages, and consequently, the sanctuary was built in her honor.

In the first week of September, the sanctuary brings together thousands of people from both Portugal and the surrounding countries who, besides delighting in the natural beauty of the park, seize the opportunity to immerse themselves in a spiritual journey and seek solace within sacred spaces.

3. Peneda-Gerês Is a Botanical Gem

Do you always look forward to hikes and walks in the woods just to spot a plant in bloom? Are you usually on the lookout for particular trees or shrubs? If so, Peneda-Gerês National Park is going to be a haven for you!

The region is truly a national treasure in terms of vegetation. The park is situated between the Atlantic and Mediterranean environments, so it covers three climatic systems, which, in turn, are also affected by topography (mountainous, hilly areas). Consequently, the ecosystems it shelters allow for a highly diverse flora!

Depending on what park parts you visit, you’ll see European oak trees, butcher’s broom shrubs, maple trees, Portuguese laurel flowering plants, and even strawberry trees, which, despite their common name, produce gorgeous, round arbutus berries in autumn.

Almost 80% of the park’s territory is covered in bush and shrublands, which include European gorse, common heather, common juniper, pale butterwort, and marsh violet. Those who want to spot rare plant species should be on the lookout for the rare chain fern species growing along the river courses.

4. A Land of Wild Animals

A trip to Peneda-Gerês National Park is incomplete without spotting at least some of the animals residing in the area. In fact, it’s almost impossible to leave the park without seeing them! It’s not uncommon for visitors to be accompanied by feral cows or horses while walking or hiking through the park! A truly unique experience indeed!

Studies have shown that Peneda-Gerês National Park is home to 235 vertebrate species. Almost all are either threatened or legally protected, which means that the park is a top destination for people looking to observe rare animals in their natural habitats.

The gold-striped salamander, for example, is among the threatened species. It’s native to the park and can be seen in mountainous areas close to well-oxygenated streams. Another species listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List is the lovely European otter, which lives close to water sources.

The adorable European pine martens and the cute red squirrels are quite common but not nearly as abundant as roe deer, which are the symbol of the park.

Peneda-Gerês is home to roughly 100 Spanish ibex, which replaced the extinct Portuguese ibex. Garrano horses are highly common as well. They are not fearful of humans, so you’ll likely stumble upon some during your trip. As mentioned, wild cows play a significant role in shaping the park’s biome.

Bird-watching enthusiasts should undoubtedly add Peneda-Gerês National Park to their must-visit list! It shelters 147 avian species, most of them gathered in the Mourela region. You’ll likely spot yellowhammers, hen harriers, European honey buzzards, garden warblers, and others. Some protected birds include the red-billed chough and the snipe, which relies on Peneda-Gerês National Park as its only breeding place in the country.

5. Connecting with the Land and the Community

Visiting Peneda-Gerês National Park doesn’t only make for a pleasant trip to the heart of nature, it’s also a fulfilling voyage into Portugal’s soul.

The villages and settlements within the area provide tourists with an authentic, first-hand perspective on the country’s rural areas that transcends any language barrier. Just a quick glimpse into the day-to-day life of people living in those long-standing villages can unravel Portugal’s beauty from a different point of view.

In Soajo, for example, you’ll spot the famous espigueiros, the traditional granaries used to store animal feed. The oldest espiguerios date from the 1780s and some of them are still used by locals. Don’t miss out on Lindoso, as well, which, besides the castle and its espigueiros, has some awe-inspiring viewpoints and is close to Poço Negro Waterfall.

Another truly serene region that should be a must-visit destination for anyone looking to get rid of the urban busyness, reconnect with nature and their true self, and feel the sense of Portuguese community is Várzea in Arcos de Valdevez. It’s a very small settlement at the border with Spain. The village doesn’t even have roads for cars, so you have to park somewhere outside the village. 

Várzea overlooks the Lima River, which separates Portugal and Spain. Although the village probably doesn’t have properties for rent (that’s how small and local it is!), you can rent something in the vicinity and easily arrive there by car to spend a few hours exploring the surroundings! The tranquility and peacefulness you’ll experience are indescribable – a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

6. An Abundance of Natural Landscapes

Besides the land’s historical and wildlife richness, Peneda-Gerês National Park is (obviously!) a breathing proof of nature’s grandeur. The views you’ll enjoy are truly breathtaking! The Vale da Peneda viewpoint, the Pedra Bela viewpoint, and the iconic viewpoints from the village of Pitões das Júnias offer spectacular views of the beauties of Portugal that will charm you at once!

The region is also abundant in waterfalls and hidden gems where you can swim, bask in the sun, and enjoy the silence of nature. Don’t forget to check out the Fecha de Barjas, Arado, and Portela Do Homem waterfalls!

If you are a hiking enthusiast, you can embark on a lifetime journey by choosing one of the available hiking trails. They’ll unravel the beauty of the park from a completely different angle.