Signature Portugal - Alentejo’s Land & Legacy

Welcome to Lisbon, a city gilded by light where the scent of sweet pastries mingles with sea air.

After you complimentary arrival transfer, settle into Hotel Tivoli, an elegant retreat on Avenida Liberdade. As evening falls, meet your fellow travellers and Signature Guide at a welcome reception, the perfect opportunity to settle in, get to know one another, and begin the journey ahead before enjoying a relaxed dinner together.

After breakfast, we enjoy a leisurely stroll through Lisbon, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere before heading south into the Alentejo region. Leaving Lisbon, we journey to the picturesque town of Arraiolos, stopping en route for lunch at O Alpendre, a family-owned restaurant renowned for serving authentic regional cuisine.

This afternoon, we are welcomed for a private visit to the CITA (Arraiolos Rug Interpretive Centre), where we uncover the centuries-old history and craftsmanship behind Portugal's iconic hand-embroidered rugs.

Afterwards, wander the alleys of the old town, stepping into ateliers where traditional techniques are passed through generations. Continue to Vila Viçosa, where we check in to Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & Spa.

This evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Choose from our hand-picked local dining recommendations or savour dinner at the hotel, making the most of the exceptional surroundings and warm Alentejan hospitality.

Step into Portugal's royal past with an exclusive guided visit to the magnificent Paço Ducal Palace. Renowned for its Renaissance architecture, exquisite collections, and noble heritage, the palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Portuguese aristocracy. Continue to the historic town of Estremoz to explore its medieval castle and enjoy a special visit with the Flores sisters, master artisans dedicated to preserving the UNESCO-recognised tradition of Estremoz clay dolls. Lunch is served at Mercearia Gadanha, a former grocery store transformed into one of the region's most celebrated restaurants. Here, traditional Alentejo flavours are reimagined with contemporary flair, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Later, we gain insight into one of Portugal's most iconic natural resources with a visit to Cortiçarte. Discover how cork is transformed from raw material into beautifully crafted contemporary pieces, blending centuries-old techniques with innovative design. Returning to our hotel, the remainder of the evening is yours to relax and enjoy at leisure.

Walk through Évora with an expert local guide, visiting the cathedral, Roman Temple and Chapel of Bones before gaining private access to a lesser-seen corner of the old city. After time for lunch, settle into M'ar de Ar Aqueduto, your Signature Stay within a restored 16th-century palace. Signature Experience: This evening, visit the family estate behind Amor é Cego olive oil. Walk among native Galega trees, learn how dry farming and biodiversity shape each small batch, then share dinner with the family, accompanied by stories of the land and the flavours of Alentejo.

Today is your Signature Day, inviting you to connect with Alentejo's artistry and rhythm. You could: Explore Évora by e-bike (riding for approximately 2hr 30min), gliding between olive groves and whitewashed villages on gentle trails through the Alentejo plains (from 9am) Enjoy an expertly guided walking tour, following the line of a 16th-century aqueduct through whitewashed lanes, shaded courtyards, and glimpses of everyday life behind ancient walls (from 9am) Join a local artist for a tile-painting workshop, learning traditional techniques and creating your own piece inspired by Alentejo's patterns (from 2pm) Ride horseback (riding for approximately 45 minutes) through golden countryside and holm oak forests, the gentle pace revealing landscapes unchanged for centuries (from 2pm) This evening is free to relax and dine at leisure or speak to your Signature Guide for some of their local restaurant recommendations.

Signature Experience: Journey to Monsaraz for a private cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Alqueva, one of Europe's largest artificial lake. Relax aboard a beautifully restored vintage boat as you glide through this vast landscape with a glass of champagne in hand, taking in uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside. Back on shore, visit Museu da Luz, where photographs and personal accounts reveal how a displaced community preserved its identity after the dam's construction. Lunch follows at Sem Fim, set within a former olive mill and centred on regional Alentejo cooking.

Later, walk through Monsaraz with a private guide, tracing its medieval streets to the castle ramparts, where the plains, lake and distant Spanish border unfold below. Return to Évora this evening.

Begin among the Roman ruins of São Cucufate, where a private guide reveals the civilisations that shaped Alentejo and its enduring Mediterranean ties. Continue to Vila de Frades, the centre of vinho de talha making, for a private cellar visit exploring how wine is fermented in clay amphorae using methods preserved for more than two millennia. Over lunch at a local tasca, taste regional dishes and hear the harmonies of UNESCO-recognised Cante Alentejano. Signature Experience: This evening, celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner at acclaimed Fitapreta Winery. Surrounded by vineyards and layers of local history, enjoy estate wines and regional cuisine while reflecting on your time in Portugal. It is a fitting finale, bringing together the traditions, flavours and generous hospitality of Alentejo.

Before taking your complimentary departure transfer to the airport, take a moment to linger in the quiet corners of M'ar de Ar Aqueduto. The week's flavours, the friendships, and the golden landscapes of Alentejo are etched in memory. This chapter may close, but the spirit of Alentejo endures: grounded, golden, and unforgettable. Alternatively, extend your stay and continue your journey of discovery. Speak with your Signature Collection travel expert to explore the possibilities.