What to Expect
Be starstruck as you enter the Alentejo region of Portugal. On this tour you will be following the Alqueva Dark Sky Route where you will have the chance to do some stargazing and cycle alongside the orchards of the area. This is your chance to let go of city life and embrace a rural oasis of peace and calm. For a real digital detox, leave your phone at home while you wander the region by bike.
This area is bursting with Roman and Moorish history. The designated dark sky star-gazing area will fill you with awe. The Alentejo villages are characterized by the whitewashed houses. Impressive castles, churches and Roman ruins are evidence of the regions wealthy inheritance. The traditional cuisine is diverse with meat, fish and seafood, many types of cheese and good Alentejo wines.
As you cycle by day you will be surrounded by low hanging vines and enjoy some of Portugal’s best food and wines. At night your eyes can feast on the dark skies filled with star constellations to admire.
Starting in the lively capital of Portugal is a treat. Spend the evening exploring the cobbled streets and admiring the tile murals dotted around the city centre. If you have time for a tipple check out Pavilhão Chinês, an old antiques shop turned into a bar. The perfect place for a late night cocktail.
In the morning you will make your way to Evora in central Portugal by train which is approx 2 hours journey time. Take time to enjoy the historic sites including a roman temple and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. The errie bone chapel is also worth a visit.
Stunning wild cycle tracks greet you all along the way. Make sure to stop into the pottery village of Corval on route. You will pass by the Redondo wine district so have a tipple or two. When you reach the hilltop town of Monsaraz enjoy a vist to Monsaraz castle to stroll around the walls. Be sure to stop by the craft shops and be inspired.
Now you are in the dark sky region where the stars come alive and all you have to do is simply observe. Your cycle today passes ancient sites of dolmens and menhirs. You will spend time riding beside the beautiful cork forests. Vineyards and gold landscapes surround you as you cycle into Estremoz. There are plenty of sites to explore in the upper and lower towns of Estremoz.
Start your day with an authentic local food experience at the Rossio market in Estremoz. End your day in the vineyards of Arraiolos. Drop by the castle to learn a little bit of history before taking a well earned rest for the evening.
After a relaxing morning taking in the historic architecture of the town you will enjoy cycling through the gentle hills and olive groves all the way to UNESCO listed Evora. Finish with your pick of the best wineries to choose from around the town and a visit to some of the stunning medieval buildings including the Cathedral.
