Family Adventure in Historic Évora
Day 7: Stepping Back in Time: Exploring Monsaraz and the Alentejo Wonders
Discover the magic of Monsaraz, ancient stones at Xerez, and the exquisite tastes of Herdade do Esporão on a memorable family day trip.
Echoes of the Past
Today was a journey through time, a day where ancient stones whispered stories and hilltop castles revealed breathtaking views. It was a day of exploration, of savoring local flavors, and of creating memories with my family that I know we will cherish forever. From the medieval charm of Monsaraz Castle, a place he had read about extensively. Sophie, of course, was keen on anything that involved a bit of history and stunning views. I was just happy to be spending quality time with them, soaking in the beauty of Portugal. After breakfast, we hopped in our rental car and set off towards Monsaraz. The drive itself was picturesque, with rolling hills and olive groves dotting the landscape. I always appreciate these moments of transit, as they give us a chance to connect and anticipate the adventures ahead.
As we approached Monsaraz, the village appeared like a mirage atop a hill, its whitewashed walls gleaming under the Alentejo sun. The closer we got, the more imposing it became, a testament to centuries of history and resilience. Finding parking outside the village walls was easy enough, and we eagerly stepped onto the ancient cobblestones, ready to explore.
The walk through Monsaraz felt like stepping back in time. The narrow, winding streets, lined with whitewashed houses and local craft shops, exuded a medieval charm that was simply irresistible. We strolled leisurely, admiring the architecture and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. D'Évora for you Artesanato, Gourmet e Vinhos, a shop filled with local crafts, caught my eye. I love finding unique, locally made items, and this place was a treasure trove. I picked up a few small ceramic pieces, each one a testament to the Alentejo's artistic heritage.
Travel is not about the destination, but the journey and the memories created along the way.
Our main destination in Monsaraz was, of course, the castle. Climbing the ancient walls, I couldn't help but imagine the countless historical figures who had stood in the same spot, defending their land. The panoramic views from the castle ramparts were simply breathtaking. The Alentejo landscape stretched out before us, a tapestry of golden fields and rolling hills. In the distance, we could see the Alqueva reservoir, the largest artificial lake in Europe. The sheer scale of it was awe-inspiring.
After exploring Monsaraz, we drove to the Xerez Megalithic Enclosure, also known as Cromeleque do Xerez, a site that dates back to the 5th or 4th millennium BCE. As a floral designer, I'm naturally drawn to the beauty of nature and history, and the Xerez Cromlech was a perfect blend of both. It was moved to its present location due to the construction of the Alqueva Dam, which flooded its original site. Standing among these ancient stones, I felt a profound connection to the past. It's humbling to think about the people who erected these monuments thousands of years ago, their lives and beliefs so different from our own. The mystery surrounding the purpose of these megalithic structures only added to the allure. Sophie was fascinated by the site, peppering Andreas with questions about its history and significance. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so rewarding – seeing the world through her curious eyes.
Next on our itinerary was Herdade do Esporão, a renowned winery in the Alentejo region. As we drove through the estate, the vineyards stretched out on either side, a sea of green under the vast Alentejo sky. The air was filled with the scent of earth and grapes, a heady mix that promised a delightful experience. Given it is December, the Herdade do Esporão restaurant will be closed from November 30th to December 16th, 2025.
We opted for the wine tasting tour, eager to sample some of the region's finest wines. The tour began with a visit to the vineyards, where we learned about Esporão's organic production methods. It's inspiring to see a company so committed to sustainability and respecting the land. We then explored the winery, discovering the different winemaking processes used at Herdade do Esporão. The blend of tradition and innovation was truly impressive. Finally, it was time for the tasting. We sampled a selection of white and red wines, each one with its unique character and flavor profile. As someone who enjoys local vineyards, I appreciated the opportunity to learn about the nuances of Alentejo wines. Andreas, with his more discerning palate, was particularly impressed by the Esporão Reserva. Sophie, of course, abstained from the wine tasting, but she enjoyed exploring the grounds and learning about the history of the estate.
After our wine tasting, it was time for a late lunch. We drove to Évora and dined at Restaurante Guião. The restaurant is known for its traditional Alentejo cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We shared a variety of dishes, including the roasted lamb and pork cheeks, all bursting with flavor. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration, savoring the tastes of the region while reminiscing about our adventures. I always find that food is such an integral part of travel, offering a window into the local culture and traditions. Restaurante Guião certainly did not disappoint.
As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our hotel, M'AR De AR Aqueduto, tired but content. The memories of the day were still fresh in our minds – the ancient stones of Monsaraz, the panoramic views from the castle, the exquisite wines of Herdade do Esporão, and the delicious flavors of Alentejo cuisine. It was a day that reminded me of the importance of slowing down, of connecting with history and nature, and of cherishing the moments spent with loved ones. Thinking about it now, I can't help but smile.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Castles of Evoramonte and Vila Viçosa, as well as the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa. I'm also looking forward to trying A Ver Évora - Rooftop Bar, for a relaxing evening.
The Alentejo region has a way of captivating you, of drawing you into its rich history and natural beauty. It's a place where time seems to slow down, where you can truly appreciate the simple things in life. And as we continue our journey through Portugal, I know that the memories of this day will stay with us, a reminder of the magic that can be found when we open ourselves to the wonders of the world.
Explore Évora's rich history and culture with the family, staying in luxury and comfort at M'AR De AR Aqueduto.
Meet this Featured Explorer
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Occupation:
Floral Designer
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Country:
Germany
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Age:
47
Hallo! I'm Maria Bakker, a floral designer from Bonn, Germany, with Dutch roots and a passion for exploring the world. I believe that travel is more than just ticking off landmarks; it's about immersing yourself in different cultures, connecting with locals, and creating lasting memories. Join me as I share my travel stories, practical tips, and inspiring photos, all while seeking authentic experiences and sustainable ways to explore our beautiful planet. I hope to inspire you to embark on your own adventures, discover hidden gems, and appreciate the beauty that our world has to offer!
- Gardening
- Sustainable living
- Art history
- Local markets
- European culture
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