Family Adventure in Historic Évora

Echoes of Royalty in the Alentejo

Today, our family delved deeper into the heart of Portugal, venturing beyond Évora to explore the historic castles and savor the regional cuisine. It was a day filled with echoes of royalty, whispers of ancient battles, and the comforting embrace of Alentejo's charm. These are the days I live for, sharing history and culture with Andreas and Sophie, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Restaurante 1/4 pras 9. I enjoyed a strong café com leite and a fresh pastel de nata, while Andreas opted for a hearty Alentejo bread with local cheese. Sophie, ever the adventurous one, tried a traditional tomato soup, which she declared surprisingly delicious. It's these simple moments, sharing local flavors, that truly connect us to a place.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante 1/4 pras 9 in Évora - where tradition meets taste.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off towards our first destination: the Castle of Evoramonte. The drive itself was a treat, with rolling hills and olive groves stretching as far as the eye could see. I couldn't help but think of my garden back in Bonn, and how much the Alentejo landscape inspires me. The castle appeared in the distance, a proud silhouette against the clear blue sky. As we approached, I was struck by its unique architecture – a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.


Explore the historic Castle of Evoramonte in Portugal, an architectural gem offering stunning views and rich medieval history.

Exploring the Castle of Evoramonte felt like stepping back in time. We climbed the narrow, winding staircases, imagining the soldiers who once stood guard on those very walls. The views from the top were simply breathtaking – a panoramic vista of the Alentejo plains. It was easy to understand why this location was strategically important for centuries. I learned that the Convention of Evoramonte was signed here in 1834, marking the end of the Portuguese Civil War. History truly comes alive when you stand in the very spot where it unfolded.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in discovering new perspectives.

Our next stop was the charming town of Vila Viçosa, home to both the Castle of Vila Viçosa and the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa. The contrast between the two structures was striking. The castle, with its medieval origins, exuded a sense of strength and resilience. We wandered through its ancient walls, discovering hidden passages and imagining life in a royal fortress. Sophie was particularly fascinated by the Hunting Museum and the Archeology Museum housed within the castle walls.


Discover the grandeur of the Castle of Vila Viçosa, a historical gem in Portugal offering captivating architecture and panoramic views.

After exploring the castle, we strolled over to the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa, a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture. The palace was once a favorite residence of the Bragança family, and it's easy to see why. Its opulent interiors, adorned with priceless art and antique furniture, offered a glimpse into the lives of Portuguese royalty. I was particularly impressed by the vast collection of decorative arts, including paintings, sculptures, and tapestries. Andreas, with his engineering mind, was fascinated by the palace's architecture and the ingenious design of its kitchens.


Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa, an essential stop for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Momentos Évora. This restaurant is known for its innovative Alentejo cuisine and its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. We started with a selection of regional cheeses and cured meats, followed by a hearty lamb stew and a flavorful fish dish. The owner, Jorge, was incredibly passionate about his food, and his enthusiasm was contagious. He even shared a few cooking tips with me, which I can't wait to try out back in Bonn.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Momentos Évora, where local flavors and warm hospitality create an unforgettable dining experience.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we returned to Évora, eager to experience the city from a different perspective. Our destination: A Ver Évora - Rooftop Bar. This rooftop bar offers stunning panoramic views of Évora's historic center. As we sipped our drinks – a refreshing vinho verde for me, a local beer for Andreas, and a sparkling lemonade for Sophie – we watched the sun set over the city, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover A Ver Évora Rooftop Bar, where stunning views meet exquisite drinks in the heart of Évora's historic landscape.

Dinner at Degust'Ar was the culinary highlight of our day. Located in a former palace, the restaurant exudes elegance and sophistication. We opted for the tasting menu, a six-course journey through the flavors of Alentejo. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and expertly prepared. The service was impeccable, and the wine pairings were spot on. It was an unforgettable dining experience.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Degust'Ar in Évora - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious dish.

As I sit here now, reflecting on our day, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful region with my family, gratitude for the warm hospitality of the Portuguese people, and gratitude for the simple pleasures of life – good food, good company, and breathtaking views. Tomorrow, we will explore more of Évora itself, including the Jardim Público de Évora and the Museu de Évora [cite]. I am already looking forward to it.

Before drifting off to sleep, I realize I need to remember to buy a power adapter. It completely slipped my mind to pack one, and it would also be useful to have another memory card for my camera. Oh well!

Good night from Évora!