The Alentejo region in southern Portugal is gaining fame for it's idylic scenery, excellent local foods and world class wines. The name quite literally means, Beyond the Tagus, from "Alem" - beyond + "Tejo" - Tagus in Portuguese. Let me take you on a short ride across it's rolling plains! Table of Contents Everything you Need for an Amazing Destination Alentejo, Land of Lore and Legend Everything you Need for an Amazing Destination Accomodations in the Alentejo Alentejo Dreaming Beyond the Tagus The Tagus is one of the main rivers flowing through the Iberian peninsula and it's estuary in Lisbon marks the beginning of the gentler rolling fields of the south. Also known as "Portugal's breadbasket," the Alentejo is a vast and sparsely populated region known for its cork trees, vineyards, olive groves, and wheat fields. Alentejo, Land of Lore and Legend Legend has it that Alentejo's dry heat and slow pace of life are so hypnotizing that even the clocks tick slower here. But don't let that fool you; Alentejo has a rich history that dates back to the Stone Age. From the Romans to the Moors, Alentejo has been conquered and reconquered so many times that even the local dogs speak Latin! But better than the laid back dogs are the rich Arab and Latin influences that have birthed one of the most delectable food regions in southern Europe. Everything you Need for an Amazing Destination Add to the rolling terrain, a world class wine region, outstanding accommodations, wonderful local culinary tradition, and exquisite handicrafts, and you have all the makings of a perfect bicycle touring destination! To end they day in perfection, the Alentejo cuisine is famous for it's slow cooked simplicity and intense flavours that rely on the fragrant local herbs and outstanding produce. This is stil to this day one of my favourite travel destinations, anywhere in the world, and I've yet to meet a fellow traveler who has not fallen in love with the tranquility and scenery of the Alentejo. Accomodations in the Alentejo We have been cycling in the Alentejo since the 1990's and it is every bit the favorite destination for our tour leaders and clients as it ever was; more so now that in recent years the quality & choice of our preferred type of small hotels and B&Bs has grown considerably. From simple B&B accomodations to luxury boutique hotels, the Alentejo now offers a world class range of accomodations to suit every style and wallet. While there are several truly exceptional new hotels out there, some of our favourite places are still the classic pousadas, which offer unbeatable historic locations such as convents and castles. Alentejo Dreaming If you have been dreaming of cycling quiet country roads, listening to the sounds of grazing sheep and enjoying an evening in a restored monastery - while sipping on a glorious local wine (and gazing at the stars) - this is the destination you have been looking for. Take your time... we'll be waiting with open arms and spinning pedals!
