Family Adventure in Historic Évora

A Day in Redondo

Today, we ventured beyond Évora's city walls in search of a different pace and flavour. Redondo, a charming town known for its wine, castle, and distinctive pottery, promised a delightful escape. With the family in tow, we set off to explore what this Alentejo gem had to offer. It's always refreshing to step away from the well-trodden tourist paths and discover the authentic heart of a region.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Salsa Verde. I opted for a strong coffee and a *pastel de nata*, a classic Portuguese custard tart. Sophia, of course, went straight for the pastries, while Lena enjoyed a more sensible yogurt with fruit. Fuelled up, we were ready to dive into Redondo's offerings.

First on our list was the Redondo Wine Museum. As someone who appreciates a good glass of wine—a hobby I picked up during my time in Berlin—I was particularly looking forward to this. The museum is housed in a former winery, which added to the atmosphere. Inside, we explored the history of winemaking in the region, from the ancient Roman techniques to modern methods. The exhibits were well-curated, with plenty of old equipment and informative displays. Sophia, surprisingly, was quite engaged, especially when she saw the old wine presses. Lena and I enjoyed a small tasting session, sampling some of the local varieties. The Alentejo wines are known for their rich, full-bodied flavour, a perfect complement to the region's cuisine.


Uncover the heritage of Portuguese wine at the Redondo Wine Museum, a cultural gem in the heart of Alentejo's picturesque landscape.

After the Wine Museum, we strolled towards the Castle of Redondo. The castle, perched atop the hill, offered panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The walk up was a bit steep, but the vista from the top was well worth the effort. The castle itself is mostly ruins, but it's easy to imagine its former glory. Sophia loved running around the ramparts, pretending to be a princess defending her kingdom. I took some photos, trying to capture the essence of the Alentejo plains stretching out before us. Lena, ever the architect, was fascinated by the castle's construction and the strategic placement of its defensive walls.


Explore the historic Castle of Redondo, a stunning medieval fortress offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Portugal.

“Sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones that take you off the beaten path, revealing the authentic heart of a place.”

For lunch, we headed to Aromas do Campo, a restaurant recommended by a local we met at the wine museum. It was a short drive from the castle, and the restaurant was tucked away in a quiet corner of Redondo. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with traditional décor and a warm, welcoming staff. We ordered a selection of local dishes, including *migas* (a bread-based dish) and grilled pork with clams, a regional specialty. The food was simple but delicious, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients. Sophia, always a picky eater, even enjoyed the pork, which was a small victory. Lena and I savoured the flavours, washing it down with a crisp white wine from the region.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at Aromas do Campo in Évora - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

After lunch, we ventured to the Museu do Barro de Redondo, the pottery museum. Redondo is famous for its distinctive pottery, characterized by its bright colours and intricate patterns. The museum showcased a wide range of pieces, from traditional pots and plates to more modern and artistic creations. Sophia was particularly drawn to the vibrant colours and the whimsical designs. Lena, with her artistic eye, appreciated the craftsmanship and the attention to detail. I found myself drawn to the history behind the pottery, learning about the different techniques and the cultural significance of the designs.


Explore the rich tradition of Portuguese pottery at Museu do Barro de Redondo, a cultural gem showcasing exquisite ceramic craftsmanship.

Before leaving Redondo, we stopped by Artesanato Beijinho, a local artisan shop. It was a treasure trove of handmade crafts, from pottery and textiles to wooden carvings and cork products. We picked up a few souvenirs, including a small hand-painted plate for Lena's collection and a cork toy for Sophia. I couldn't resist buying a small *porrón*, a traditional Spanish wine pitcher, as a reminder of our time in the Iberian Peninsula. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when traveling; it feels good to contribute directly to the local economy and to bring home something unique and authentic.


Explore Artesanato Beijinho in Évora for unique handcrafted gifts showcasing the rich culture and artistry of Portugal.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Évora. The drive was scenic, with rolling hills and olive groves stretching as far as the eye could see. We arrived back at Moov Hotel Évora just as the sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the city. After a quick freshening up, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Fialho, a renowned restaurant in Évora known for its traditional Alentejo cuisine.


Discover the charm of Évora while enjoying budget-friendly accommodation at Moov Hotel Évora, perfect for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.

Fialho was a delightful experience. The restaurant has a classic, old-world charm, with dark wood panelling and antique décor. The menu featured a wide range of regional specialties, and we decided to try a few different dishes. We started with the *sopa de cação* (dogfish soup), a local delicacy, followed by the *borrego assado* (roasted lamb). The food was rich and flavourful, and the portions were generous. Sophia, surprisingly, enjoyed the lamb, which was tender and succulent. Lena and I savoured every bite, appreciating the authentic flavours of the Alentejo. The service was impeccable, and the staff were knowledgeable and passionate about the food and wine.

As we sat there, enjoying our meal, I reflected on the day's adventures. Redondo had exceeded my expectations, offering a glimpse into the authentic heart of the Alentejo. From the Wine Museum to the Castle and the Pottery Museum, each experience had been unique and memorable. It was a day of discovery, of connection, and of appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. I was grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we're planning to delve deeper into Évora itself, starting with a visit to Cartuxa - Quinta de Valbom, followed by the Igreja de São João Evangelista (Igreja dos Lóios) and the Convent of the Carthusians. And perhaps, if we're lucky, we'll find time to relax with a glass of wine at ADC Wine & Food Bar. Until then, *boa noite* from Évora!

I must remember to buy a travel adapter tomorrow, it's really annoying that I forgot this. And maybe I should buy a new memory card for my camera, just in case.