In the past few weeks we told you about what’s on for lovebirds in the major cities of Portugal. We went from Lisbon and Sintra to Oporto, but what about the smaller cities? Don’t you think places off the beaten track are the perfect romantic destination?
We think so too. We think you can enjoy your time together calmly, discover the most romantic places, taste some delicious Portuguese food, experience traditional Portuguese activities, or even try some of the best wines in the world.
So, here is our suggestion for this week:
Évora, capital of the Alentejo region
Évora is an old, charming and quiet city. Being the most important and largest city of the Alentejo region gives it some privilege, but the place deserves that recognition. Full of unique sites, with stunning landscapes, it also presents itself with centuries of history and a vast list of Portuguese heritage monuments and sites. If this isn’t enough to take you there, we can also tell you that Évora and the Alentejo region are known for having some of excellent wines, gastronomy, and ancient traditions, that you can enjoy with your loved one. And did we mention Évora’s Historic Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
– Gastronomic experience
If you’re interested in deeply experience some traditions, food is most certainly a good start. The basis of the Alentejo regional cuisine is olive oil, so you might find that a visit to an Olive grove, which is a typical and beautiful landscape of the region, is a good bet. You can also continue your visit, with specialized guides, learning some more of the Portuguese gastronomy by visiting an Olive press. Of course in the end you will be delight to taste some typical dishes and wines.
– Historic Center
We’ve told you wonders about Évora’s center and once you visit it, you will see they are all true and accurate. The natural beauty of this region combines with the monumental richness of this town-museum. Even though the city isn’t very big, there is a lot to explore, so we advise you to go on a private tour, so you don’t get lost with all the marvelous places you run into. That way you’ll still be able to spend your time together as you please and you also get tips from a local person to go to the coziest places and to enjoy the most dazzling views.
– Workshop of traditional activities
Is there anything better than sharing with your loved one some fun and enriching moments? If you agree with us we advise you to go on some workshops, to explore some more of the region’s traditions. In the Évora’s surrounding areas you’ll be able to go to a store and cork factory and get to know the production and processing of cork, a regions typical product. You can also continue your day by visiting a pottery, with the opportunity to experience the hand-crafting of traditional piece. Of course the day wouldn’t be complete without going to a typical wine cellar and tasting its excellent wines.
It seems you have plenty of reasons to choose Évora as your romantic destination. Are you already dreaming about your trip with your loved one? We bet you are, so don’t just dream, and start planning your vacations with us.
