Hidden Secrets of Algarve & Alentejo, Self-drive

Chose this self-drive tour around the Algarve & Alentejo region and spend eight days exploring the superb culture and landscapes of this country. Visit its inspiring, lively towns and catch a glimpse of the scenic, historical villages. Stroll the beautifully arranged streets of Faro admiring its picturesque location, walk the mesmerizing alleys of the Roman town of Silves and Beja, enjoy the romantic spirit in the most beautiful town of the Algarve, Évora. Admire the architectural mixture of the Moorish and Portuguese elements on the city centre´s frameworks and enjoy the local gastronomy and wine. This trip will fill all your senses and will leave great memories for the lifetime.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Faro: capital of Algarve, a gateway to this north-western region of Portugal with a fascinating history.

Silves: small picturesque town, with cobbled streets an impression that the time stopped here. The town is famous for having the most well-preserved castle of the Algarve.

Évora: book of Portuguese art history, city written in the UNESCO World Heritage, perceiving the loving spirit of the local poets and art lovers.

Alcoutim: pottery, blankets and rugs, Praia fluvial do Pego Fundo, the castle of Alcoutim and Sanlucar de Guadiana.

Day 1: ARRIVAL FARO / CAR PICK-UP

Arrive at Faro International Airport, meet and greet by our local representative who will assist and inform you how to proceed on your departure day and your car rental. Check-in to your hotel in Faro and if you´re itching to start exploring this fascinating capital of Algarve, stroll down its picturesque streets walking through the Arco da Vila that gives access to the old town, perhaps visit the Faro Municipal Museum and learn about the seafaring history of this city in long time exhibitions that present the origins of Faro from the Roman time until the present day. Igreja do Carmo, the Algarve´s most prized historical church built in majestic Portuguese Baroque architecture, and the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) unveil you the mystery of the monks' lives and their theory of the ephemeral nature of human existence.                                                                                                                                                  

Overnight in Faro.

Day 2: FARO – SILVES (65km – 1hr)

Wake up to your tasty breakfast and get ready for your next destination. Silves is a delightful town, settled on the top of the hill above the Arade River. It was an ancient capital of Algarve, and Castle of Silves is still living evidence of the wealth and popularity of this town. Just below the castle, there is a Silves Cathedral, Roman Bridge and Cruz de Portugal. While in Silves try typical local cake called Morgado de Silves. It is made from almond and chilli candy, stuffed with soft eggs and topped with royal icing, decorated with stands of eggs and marzipan shaped into small shapes that represent elements of the Algarve nature. As a regional capital in one of the kingdoms of Taifa and a commercial and cultural centre, the roots of the Arabic influence are still present in the local architecture and some of the local gastronomy. Walk down its alleys and streets and admire the Arabic elements and azulejos, decorative tiles that are shaping local frameworks.                         

Overnight in Silves.

Day 3: SILVES – BEJA (125km – 1.4hrs)

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel and get ready for your following destination. Today, you will drive to Beja, small historic town, capital of the roman ages under Julius Ceasar regime. Beja was not only a roman city but its architecture disclose the Moorish impact on the local building design, visible in the cobbled streets and houses in the old town. Medieval Castle from the 13th century, the important fortress in Rainha D. Leonor Regional and St. Mary of the Market Church. Today you can drive to the charming villages of Serpa and Aljustrel, settled in the beautiful landscape created by the river Guadiana. The landscape of Serpa is stunning, not only because of beautiful architecture and historic walls in the historic centre but also on the magnificent, extensive plain and the rose-covered hills around the village. Drive to another roman village, Aljustrel and admire the tranquil landscape, green valleys and rocky hills that surround this hidden roman gem of Alentejo region. 

Overnight in Beja.

Day 4: BEJA – ÉVORA (80km – 1hr)

Morning breakfast at the hotel is a great beginning of your new venture. Drive to Évora, the city commonly known as the book of Portuguese art history. The name came from the Celtic word, Ebora and nowadays it is one of the most romantic cities of Portugal, classified in the UNESCO World Heritage. Templo de Diana (Diana Temple), Catedral da Sé, Capela dos Ossos, are just a few sites to visit, on which you will learn why this city was chosen by the Portuguese kings as their residence. Delicious local gastronomy cannot be ignored, as its Migas con Carne, leftover bread, soaked in water, garlic, spices and combined with braised pork, is a luscious experience for the foodie lovers.

Overnight in Évora.

Day 5: ÉVORA

After the morning breakfast at the hotel, stroll down the narrow streets of Évora again, and absorb its romantic atmosphere. Explore the hidden corners of the city, and enjoy the well tasted sweets and dishes at one of the local restaurants. Get a deeper insight into the local culture by visiting the Museu de Évora and learn why the city is so welcoming and charming throughout the centuries.  

Overnight in Évora.

Day 6: ÉVORA – ALCOUTIM – TAVIRA (260km – 3hrs)

Enjoy your luscious breakfast at the Hotel and the last moments in the beautiful atmosphere of Évora. Today you will drive to Alcoutim, hidden treasure in the Algarve region. This charming river town is set among beautiful green hills and valleys, and emanate the tranquillity of the surrounding nature. The main attractions in Alcoutim are the Alcoutim Castle, the Church of Nossa Senhora da conceição and the river beach, Praia Fluvial do Pego. You can also visit the ruins of Roman settlements in Alamo and Montinho das Laranjeiras. After discovering Alcoutim drive to Tavira and check in to your hotel.  

Overnight in Tavira.

Day 7: TAVIRA

Today is your last day. After breakfast at the hotel venture into Tavira, a small finishing village located on the bank of the river Gilão and with superb island beaches easy to reach, it is a wonderful destination for ending your trip. Coquet mixture of Moorish and Portuguese architecture is very present here, and Tavira tower, the Castle of Tavira and the church of Misericordia are some of the proofs that perceive this unique and fascinating history. Concealed within the labyrinth of narrow streets are traditionally tiled houses, local restaurants, and many decorative churches. 

Overnight in Tavira.

Day 8: TAVIRA – FARO (40km – 30min) / CAR DROP-OFF

Spend your last morning in Tavira. Then, hop into your car and drive back to Faro, return the rental car at the Faro Airport and prepare for your return flight. 

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Portugal. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.