
Gratis gids 10 verborgen natuurplekken in Europa
Gratis gids 10 verborgen natuurplekken in Europa. Meld je aan voor onze nieuwsbrief en ontvang inspirerende reistips en routes voor je volgende groene reis.
The Alentejo region in Portugal is a wonderful place for a road trip. From historic cities and charming villages to breathtaking nature reserves and stunning coastlines. You’ll need at least a week to get a good sense of the region’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Read below about the most beautiful (at least) one-week driving route through the Alentejo. Plus, the three best routes from Lisbon to the Alentejo.



Start in Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover its medieval atmosphere. Explore the impressive Roman temple complex, visit the Gothic cathedral, and admire the Capela dos Ossos, decorated with human bones.
Set out early for Mértola, a small town on the banks of the Guadiana River. Here you’ll see Moorish heritage, with narrow streets and whitewashed houses. Visit Mértola Castle before continuing on to Beja. Here you’ll find many charming restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal featuring local dishes and local wines.
Leave the cities and culture behind and embrace the tranquility and beauty of nature in the Parque Natural do Vale do Guadiana. Hike through the forests, admire the wildflowers, and spot rare bird species. A boat trip on the Guadiana River is also well worth it.
Drive to picturesque Monsaraz, a village perched high above the surrounding plains. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the view of Lake Alqueva, Europe’s largest artificial lake. Enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants and sample the delicious regional wine.
Drive toward the coast and spend the day in Zambujeira do Mar. Here you’ll find breathtaking cliffs and beautiful beaches. Explore the rocky coastline and take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean. End the day with dinner at a local seafood restaurant.
Leave the Alentejo for a day and drive to Sintra, a town known for its fairytale palaces and lush gardens. Visit the colorful Palácio da Pena and explore the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira. Afterward, you can continue on to Cascais, a charming seaside resort, to relax on the beach and enjoy the fresh sea air.


From Lisbon, you can easily drive to the Algarve in about 3 hours via the E1 highway. But there are more scenic routes that allow you to get to know the region better. You can find more up-to-date information about the region on the official Visit Portugal website.
This route takes about 3 hours and winds along the beautiful, rugged Costa Vicentina, with small
seaside resorts such as Porto Covo and Milfontes.
This road was built after World War II to connect the north with Faro in the Algarve. The route winds through a varied landscape of mountains, hills, and flat areas, which is why it is often compared to Route 66 in the United States. The EN2 stretches 750 kilometers from north to south. You’ll find many charming restaurants and villages along the way.
Best route to take:
The Guadiana River flows along the border with Spain and lies just east of Castro Verde, the biosphere reserve. You can cool off and go swimming in the Guadiana River in the park. Lake Alqueva is one of the largest man-made lakes. You’ll pass through Corval, Serpa, Moura, Monsaraz, and Mértola.
In Odemira, near the coast but just inland, you’ll find the unique Craveiral Farmhouse. A place to truly unwind and enjoy the countryside, the local cuisine, and the unique design of this sustainable hotel.



In Monsaraz, you’ll find the Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve Montimerso Skyscape Countryhouse: eco-luxury and design in the heart of nature.



The Oriente station in Lisbon is about 10 minutes from Lisbon Airport.
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Get inspired
Are you looking for the most beautiful hiking and biking routes? Or do you want information about traveling by train or advice for the most beautiful road trips through nature. Get inspired for your next trip in green; ideas for planning your own trip or opting for an organized trip.