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About Alentejo
Beneath the endless golden sky, Alentejo dreams where cork oaks lie.
Alentejo is a land where time seems to slow down, stretching beneath vast golden plains and endless blue skies. The gentle breeze crosses fields of wheat and cork oak forests, carrying the scent of earth warmed by the sun. Whitewashed villages shine quietly in the distance, while ancient traditions and simple moments give the region its timeless soul. Here, every sunset paints the horizon with shades of gold and crimson, inviting silence, reflection, and a deep sense of peace that lingers long after the day is gone.
Location
Alentejo is one of Portugal’s largest regions, located in the south-central part of the country. It stretches from the Tagus River in the north to the Algarve in the south, and from the Atlantic coast in the west to the Spanish border in the east. The region includes the districts of Évora, Beja, Portalegre, and parts of Setúbal, with Évora serving as its historic and cultural capital.
Climate
Alentejo enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by long, hot, and dry summers, and mild winters. Average annual temperatures range between 15°C and 18°C, with some of the highest sunshine levels in Europe. Rainfall is generally low and occurs mainly during the autumn and winter months.
Natural & Cultural Heritage
Known for its vast plains, rolling hills, cork oak forests, and Atlantic coastline, Alentejo offers remarkable natural diversity. The region is rich in cultural heritage, featuring UNESCO-listed sites, archaeological remains, medieval castles, historic towns, traditional villages, and centuries-old agricultural landscapes that reflect its unique identity and history.
Economy & Local Products
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the Alentejo economy, alongside livestock farming, forestry, renewable energy, tourism, and agro-industry. The region is internationally recognized for its olive oil, wines, cork, cheeses, cured meats, honey, and other high-quality local products that combine tradition with innovation.
Gastronomy & Traditions
Alentejo’s gastronomy is renowned for its authentic flavors and use of simple, locally sourced ingredients. Bread, olive oil, aromatic herbs, pork, lamb, fresh fish along the coast, and seasonal products form the basis of many traditional dishes, including açordas, migas, soups, and stews. Local wines, convent sweets, traditional crafts, festivals, and the UNESCO-recognized Cante Alentejano preserve and celebrate the region’s rich cultural traditions.
Tourism
Alentejo offers a diverse and authentic tourism experience, combining nature, culture, gastronomy, wine tourism, and outdoor activities. Visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, historic pousadas, rural estates, boutique hotels, and countryside retreats. The region’s tranquility, heritage, landscapes, and renowned cuisine make it one of Portugal’s most distinctive destinations.
Territory & Population
Covering approximately 31,500 km², Alentejo is Portugal’s largest region, representing nearly one third of the national territory. Despite its size, it has a relatively low population density, with around 700,000 inhabitants, preserving its peaceful atmosphere, open landscapes, and strong connection to local traditions.