Évora - Albufeira

Corticarte - Arte em Cortica - Departing from Lisbon to the Alentejo region, specifically Évora, we cross the stunning suspension bridge, taking in views of the city and the Christ the King monument. Our day begins on a farm where we learn that cork is the bark of the cork oak, a type of oak tree. This bark has remarkable properties: it’s lightweight, elastic, and fire-resistant, among others.

Each year, the bark grows, but it should only be harvested every nine years. It can reach up to 25 centimeters in thickness, providing excellent protection for the tree against heat, cold, and fire. After harvesting, the tree forms new bark.

Centro Historico de Evora - Évora is a place where various civilizations have lived. The ancient “Temple of Diana” stands next to the Cathedral of Évora, built during the Roman period. We can also see the magnificent “Agua da Prata” aqueduct, which extends from outside the city walls to the periphery. Some of its arches are still visible within the city. Built in the 16th century, it was designed to ensure water transport.

The Arabs constructed their streets and alleys in the 11th and 12th centuries. Évora was home to some Portuguese kings and a hub for renowned artists, supported by the ruling patronage and dynasty in Portugal. The period of discovery brought glory to Évora, leading to the construction of numerous aristocratic mansions and the Jesuit university.

Capela dos Ossos - The highlight is St. Francis Church, especially the Chapel of Bones, adorned with the skulls and bones of 500 monks. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, with the inscription at the entrance reading, “We bones, here we are, waiting for you.”

Albufeira Marina - We then reach Albufeira, known for its historic center with a traditional atmosphere. The whitewashed houses, narrow streets filled with cafes and shops, and vibrant nightlife, with a central avenue lined with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, make it a lively destination.

Overnight in Albufeira

Meals not included on this day.
Accommodation not included on this day.

Albufeira - Lagos - Sagres - Albufeira

Marina de Lagos - On the second day of our private tour of the Algarve from Lisbon, we depart from the hotel to visit Lagos. In the mid-16th century, Lagos was a major base for the Discoveries, the starting point for many expeditions, and a hub for trade.

This strategic importance led to significant economic development, attracting many settlers and contributing to the city’s urban growth.

The continuous attacks from North African corsairs necessitated the construction of a second ring of walls, adapted to new military architecture concepts introduced by the widespread use of artillery. The Portuguese, following the Italian avant-garde model, implemented these concepts in Morocco and other territories.

Fortaleza de Sagres - The Fortress of Sagres, also known as Promotorium Sacrum, was built by Prince Henry the Navigator. Here, we will see cannons, a 16th-century tower, and the Church of Our Lady of Grace. One of the notable features is the wind rose, a sundial that some believe dates back to the time of Prince Henry and the nautical school he founded in Sagres.

Farol do Cabo de Sao Vicente - Nearby is the Cape St. Vincent Fortress, built in the 16th century to protect the coast from Moorish and pirate attacks. Legend has it that the fortress was built on the site where the remains of St. Vincent were kept before being moved to Lisbon.

Overnight in Albufeira

Meals not included on this day.
Accommodation not included on this day.

Albufeira - Setubal - Lisbon

Baia de Setubal - Setúbal is inseparable from the sea, with its fishermen, boats, and riverfront. The hundreds of boats moored along the riverfront contrast with the tanned skin of the hardworking fishermen, who possess a unique wisdom and humor, painting vivid pictures with their words.

Monastery of Jesus of Setubal - In the center of Setúbal, you’ll find shops catering to all tastes, from globally recognized brands to those offering rare and unconventional products. The city’s culture is evident around every corner, with buildings serving as living testimonies to its history. Setúbal is a growing city that modernizes while staying true to its maritime roots.

Most streets converge at “Bocage Square,” Setúbal’s main meeting point, filled with terraces and dedicated to one of Portugal’s greatest poets. His statue, with eyes fixed on the sea, is a landmark in this bustling square.

Forte de Sao Filipe - Forte de Sao Filipe, also known as Castelo de São Filipe and Fortaleza de São Filipe, is a fortification located in Setúbal.

• In-vehicle air conditioning
• On-board WiFi