This Self-Drive Experience will take you on a journey exploring some of the hidden gems of the Iberian Peninsula, within a diversity of territories, from wide plains to villages perched on mountains. You will feel like you’ve gone back in time strolling through off-the-beaten-path historic towns and discovering their heritage.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Lisboa, rental car collection and drive to the Alentejo
Arrive in Lisbon, collect your rental car, and set off for the Alentejo. Drive to the charming town of Monsaraz, where you can unwind from your journey. Explore its cobbled streets and discover hidden gems tucked away in this medieval wonder.
Day 2 - Explore Monsaraz and enjoy a stargazing activity in the evening
Discover the medieval beauty of Monsaraz with its narrow streets and whitewashed monuments. In the evening, indulge in a unique stargazing experience at the Lake Alqueva Observatory. Marvel at the constellations and learn all about them!
Day 3 - Departure to Belmonte visiting Marvão and Castelo de Vide
Head to Belmonte via Marvão, perched high on defensive rocks, and Castelo de Vide, preserving rich Jewish heritage. Immerse yourself in history and captivating landscapes. The breathtaking views from Marvão's castle will leave an everlasting impression.
Day 4 - Explore Belmonte with a guided walking tour and visit Monsanto and Sortelha in the afternoon
Uncover the secrets of Belmonte's Jewish heritage with a guided walking tour. Afternoon visits to the historical villages of Monsanto and Sortelha will transport you back in time. Wander through the stone streets of Sortelha, a true medieval gem.
Day 5 - Departure to Marialva visiting Trancoso en route
Drive north to Marialva, stopping at Trancoso, a town steeped in legends and history, especially significant for the Jewish community during the inquisition. Traverse Trancoso's charming alleys, where echoes of ancient stories linger.
Day 6 - Drive to Central Spain
Venture into Central Spain, visiting Puebla de Sanabria and exploring La Alberca and Mogarraz. Witness a unique project featuring portraits of villagers on house facades in Mogarraz. The village of La Alberca boasts a lively town center with centuries-old houses.
Day 7 - Explore Central Spain
Discover the medieval charm of Pedraza, visit Buitrago de Lozoya and its Mudéjar Castle, or explore the fairytale village of Patones de Arriba. Pedraza's Zuloaga Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the town's artistic heritage.
Day 8 - Departure to Andalusia
Drive south to Andalusia, stopping at the World Heritage Site of Aranjuez and picturesque Chinchón with its characteristic Plaza Mayor. Wander through Chinchón's cobbled streets adorned with wooden balconies and lintel galleries.
Day 9 - Discover the White Villages and visit a local Sherry wine cellar
Explore the enchanting Whitewashed Villages of Andalusia, including Ronda, Setenil de las Bodegas, Olvera, Zahara de la Sierra, and Grazalema. End the day with a visit to a local Sherry wine cellar. Indulge your senses with the rich flavors of Andalusian Sherry wines.
Day 10 - Drive back to Portugal, towards the Alentejo, and visit Mértola
Return to Portugal, stopping in Mértola, a charming town with traces of human occupation dating back to the Neolithic period. Explore Arab-era vestiges and historical landmarks. The Paleochristian Basilica in Mértola stands as a testament to its diverse cultural history.
Day 11 - Explore the Costa Vicentina
Embark on a captivating day of exploration along the stunning Costa Vicentina. Traverse pristine coastal trails, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of rugged cliffs and golden beaches. Discover hidden coves, witness breathtaking vistas, and savor the tranquility that defines this picturesque region on the southwestern coast of Portugal.
Day 12 - Drive to Lisbon airport, rental cal delivery and departure
Bid farewell to the Alentejo, drive to Lisbon airport, deliver your rental car, and complete your check-in for the return flight. Reflect on the memories of the "Lost in Time" villages as you head home.
Highlights
Unveil centuries-old legends!
Discover the local legend of a tragic love story in Sortelha, that ended with the two lovers becoming two rocks, forever-kissing…
Highlights
Jewish heritage walking tour in Belmonte
Discover the Jewish heritage and secrets kept over centuries by the Jews who were able to maintain their traditions and practice their religion in secret by retreating to the hinterland to avoid persecution.
Highlights
Visit villages in the most peculiar locations
Explore beautiful towns in unique settings, such as the delightful Monsanto, where the houses are surrounded by boulders, or the uncommon Setenil de las Bodegas, whose houses seem to flourish from the rocks.
Highlights
Visit and wine tasting at local Sherry Wine Cellar
Learn all about Sherry wine, from the grape to the bottle. Visit traditional and modern cellars, see the "botas" where the wines mature, taste the wines at cellar temperature and discover their character. Indulge in the local gastronomy and try local dishes prepared with sherry!
Highlights
Stargazing activity in the Alentejo with an astronomer
Let yourself be immersed into complete darkness of Alentejo’s dark skies and, while looking up, learn all about the Cosmos and the world that surrounds us, in the company of our local astronomer.
Prices
From 1985€
Per person, for a minimum of 2 travelers
12 days
The “lost in time” villages of Portugal & Spain
2 nights at Montimerso in Standard Suite (Monsaraz) or similar
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2/3
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