OFFER Signature

Signature Portugal Among the Whitewashed Hills

Overview

Across sunlit plains and timeless villages, rural Portugal’s soul unfolds – rich in serenity, deep in tradition, alive with artistry

Alentejo reveals itself through clay, cork, olive groves and wine aged in amphorae. Led by your hand-picked Signature Guide, begin in Lisbon before travelling south to meet the artisans shaping Arraiolos rugs and Estremoz clay figures, enter Vila Viçosa’s ducal palace, and trace Évora’s Roman and medieval past. Share dinner with an olive-growing family, cruise Lake Alqueva aboard a private vintage boat, and hear Cante Alentejano over lunch. This is Portugal at a slower pace: shaped by craftsmanship, generous tables and enduring ties to the land.

Venture to the very heart of each destination on our Signature Collection, where every journey is shaped by our unrivalled local connections and insider expertise. Step beyond the ordinary with private invitations, rare encounters, and experiences few will ever share. So when someone says, “I’ve been there,” you’ll simply smile, knowing you’ve experienced it differently.

Signature Day: Experience our distinctive Signature Day, choosing between carefully selected optional activities such as a horseback ride across the Alentejo plains, a tile workshop in an atelier, or a guided walk along Évora’s ancient aqueduct

Signature Stay: Discover timeless serenity at M’ar de Ar Aqueduto, an elegant retreat set within a 16th-century palace in the heart of Évora’s UNESCO-listed historic centre

Signature Guide: Let your hand-picked Signature Guide lead you to the country’s soul – sharing their home, heritage, and heart

Key Information

Activity: Culture
Activity Level: Easy
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you.
Comfort Level: Premium
Trip Code: LPC
Ways to Travel: Guided Group
Countries: Portugal
Carbon Footprint: 56.8kg CO2e per person per day

Signature Exclusive Inclusions

Elegant, hand-picked hotels and a Signature Stay in a revamped palace
All breakfasts, four lunches, and three dinners, capturing authentic Alentejano cuisine
Your preferred Signature Day experience, selected and prebooked ahead of travel
Named Signature Guide with outstanding knowledge and guest satisfaction
Complimentary transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth journey, plus comfortable private transport throughout
Gratuities for local support staff so every detail of your journey feels effortless

Positive Impact

We donate to our Foundation and rewild 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller. Find out more about how our adventures support nature and people to thrive.

Don't Forget To

Request a single room if required, purchase travel insurance and arrange any visas and vaccinations.

Signature Experiences

Visit Amor é Cego’s family estate, taste its small-batch olive oil, and share dinner with the family

Cruise Lake Alqueva aboard a restored vintage boat, sipping champagne as the Alentejo countryside unfolds around you

Celebrate at Fitapreta Winery with a farewell dinner of estate wines, regional cuisine and reflections on the journey

Signature Portugal | Among the Whitewashed Hills

Signature Travel Expert

Teresa Dias Martins da Rosa Pires

Signature Guide: Portugal

Destinations

Europe, Lisbon, Portugal

Teresa leads with quiet confidence, deep destination knowledge, and a people-centred approach shaped by years in nature-based travel and guest experience.

Itinerary

First Destination: Lisbon
Next Destination: Évora

Accommodation:Hotel Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa
Meals included:Dinner

Accommodation:Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & SPA
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & SPA
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:M'ar de Ar Aqueduto
Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation:M'ar de Ar Aqueduto
Meals included:Breakfast

Accommodation:M'ar de Ar Aqueduto
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:M'ar de Ar Aqueduto
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Meals included:Breakfast

First Destination: Lisbon
Next Destination: Évora

Welcome to Lisbon, a city gilded by light where the scent of sweet pastries mingles with sea air. After you complimentary arrival transfer, settle into Hotel Tivoli, an elegant retreat on Avenida Liberdade.

As evening falls, meet your fellow travellers and Signature Guide at a welcome reception, the perfect opportunity to settle in, get to know one another, and begin the journey ahead before enjoying a relaxed dinner together.

Accommodation:Hotel Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa
Meals included:Dinner

After breakfast, we enjoy a leisurely stroll through Lisbon, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere before heading south into the Alentejo region.

Leaving Lisbon, we journey to the picturesque town of Arraiolos, stopping en route for lunch at O Alpendre, a family-owned restaurant renowned for serving authentic regional cuisine.

This afternoon, we are welcomed for a private visit to the CITA (Arraiolos Rug Interpretive Centre), where we uncover the centuries-old history and craftsmanship behind Portugal’s iconic hand-embroidered rugs.

Afterwards, wander the alleys of the old town, stepping into ateliers where traditional techniques are passed through generations. Continue to Vila Viçosa, where we check in to Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & Spa.

This evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Choose from our hand-picked local dining recommendations or savour dinner at the hotel, making the most of the exceptional surroundings and warm Alentejan hospitality.

Accommodation:Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & SPA
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Step into Portugal’s royal past with an exclusive guided visit to the magnificent Paço Ducal Palace. Renowned for its Renaissance architecture, exquisite collections, and noble heritage, the palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Portuguese aristocracy.

Continue to the historic town of Estremoz to explore its medieval castle and enjoy a special visit with the Flores sisters, master artisans dedicated to preserving the UNESCO-recognised tradition of Estremoz clay dolls.

Lunch is served at Mercearia Gadanha, a former grocery store transformed into one of the region’s most celebrated restaurants. Here, traditional Alentejo flavours are reimagined with contemporary flair, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Later, we gain insight into one of Portugal’s most iconic natural resources with a visit to Cortiçarte. Discover how cork is transformed from raw material into beautifully crafted contemporary pieces, blending centuries-old techniques with innovative design.

Returning to our hotel, the remainder of the evening is yours to relax and enjoy at leisure.

Accommodation:Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & SPA
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Walk through Évora with an expert local guide, visiting the cathedral, Roman Temple and Chapel of Bones before gaining private access to a lesser-seen corner of the old city. After time for lunch, settle into M’ar de Ar Aqueduto, your Signature Stay within a restored 16th-century palace.

Signature Experience: This evening, visit the family estate behind Amor é Cego olive oil. Walk among native Galega trees, learn how dry farming and biodiversity shape each small batch, then share dinner with the family, accompanied by stories of the land and the flavours of Alentejo.

Accommodation:M'ar de Ar Aqueduto
Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

Today is your Signature Day, inviting you to connect with Alentejo’s artistry and rhythm. You could:

Explore Évora by e-bike (riding for approximately 2hr 30min), gliding between olive groves and whitewashed villages on gentle trails through the Alentejo plains (from 9am)
Enjoy an expertly guided walking tour, following the line of a 16th-century aqueduct through whitewashed lanes, shaded courtyards, and glimpses of everyday life behind ancient walls (from 9am)
Join a local artist for a tile-painting workshop, learning traditional techniques and creating your own piece inspired by Alentejo’s patterns (from 2pm)
Ride horseback (riding for approximately 45 minutes) through golden countryside and holm oak forests, the gentle pace revealing landscapes unchanged for centuries (from 2pm)

This evening is free to relax and dine at leisure or speak to your Signature Guide for some of their local restaurant recommendations.

Accommodation:M'ar de Ar Aqueduto
Meals included:Breakfast

Signature Experience: Journey to Monsaraz for a private cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Alqueva, one of Europe’s largest artificial lake. Relax aboard a beautifully restored vintage boat as you glide through this vast landscape with a glass of champagne in hand, taking in uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside.

Back on shore, visit Museu da Luz, where photographs and personal accounts reveal how a displaced community preserved its identity after the dam’s construction.

Lunch follows at Sem Fim, set within a former olive mill and centred on regional Alentejo cooking.

Later, walk through Monsaraz with a private guide, tracing its medieval streets to the castle ramparts, where the plains, lake and distant Spanish border unfold below. Return to Évora this evening.

Accommodation:M'ar de Ar Aqueduto
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Begin among the Roman ruins of São Cucufate, where a private guide reveals the civilisations that shaped Alentejo and its enduring Mediterranean ties.

Continue to Vila de Frades, the centre of vinho de talha making, for a private cellar visit exploring how wine is fermented in clay amphorae using methods preserved for more than two millennia. Over lunch at a local tasca, taste regional dishes and hear the harmonies of UNESCO-recognised Cante Alentejano.

Signature Experience: This evening, celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner at acclaimed Fitapreta Winery. Surrounded by vineyards and layers of local history, enjoy estate wines and regional cuisine while reflecting on your time in Portugal. It is a fitting finale, bringing together the traditions, flavours and generous hospitality of Alentejo.

Accommodation:M'ar de Ar Aqueduto
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Before taking your complimentary departure transfer to the airport, take a moment to linger in the quiet corners of M’ar de Ar Aqueduto. The week’s flavours, the friendships, and the golden landscapes of Alentejo are etched in memory. This chapter may close, but the spirit of Alentejo endures: grounded, golden, and unforgettable.

Alternatively, extend your stay and continue your journey of discovery. Speak with your Signature Collection travel expert to explore the possibilities.

Meals included:Breakfast

Dates & Prices

Accommodation

Every aspect of the Signature Collection is meticulously planned to take you deeper into the destination. That means your accommodation is a refined showcase of local hospitality, whether you’re staying in a pioneering luxury hotel or enjoying privileged access to a characterful stay designed to fully immerse you in the local culture.

Below are the accommodations we use on this adventure:

Lisbon: Hotel Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa (night 1)

Begin the journey on Lisbon’s celebrated thoroughfare Avenida da Liberdade, just steps from the neoclassical architecture of Baixa, the historic and commercial centre of the city. Unwind in the circular dipping pool, head to the rooftop bar for glorious views over the city roofs or perhaps treat yourself to a sampling of the many bottles at Cellar 47.

Vila Viçosa: Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & SPA (nights 2-3)

Set in the heart of marble country, this elegant hotel makes good use of the local material, creating a refined décor that pairs art deco and Moorish styles. There’s an outdoor pool lined with loungers and hanging chairs, a restaurant serving classic Alentejo dishes and the Stone Spa, built into a natural quarry.

Évora: M’ar de Ar Aqueduto (nights 4-7)

Your Signature Stay is set in a beautifully restored 16th-century palace in the heart of Évora. Right next to the city’s iconic aqueduct, you’ll unwind in elegant rooms, relax by the courtyard pool, and, if you wish, treat yourself to time in the spa, where you’ll find a water circuit with a heated indoor pool, vichy shower, Turkish bath and sauna.

Enhance your stay: Personalise your experience with curated room upgrades and additional nights tailored to your travel plans.

Essential Information

We have graded this trip Activity Level 1 (Easy). For more information on our trip gradings, please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page.

Driving times: The longest travel time takes place on Day 2 (1hr 30min). All other journeys are under one hour.

Signature Day: Select from a curated menu of optional experiences to create a day that is personal to you, or choose to slow the pace and enjoy the facilities of your accommodation. Simply prebook your chosen experience at least 60 days before departure through your Signature Collection travel expert.

As with all adventures in the Signature Collection, we take care of your arrival and departure transfers, allowing you to fully relax and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Arrival airport: Lisbon (LIS)
- Your adventure begins with a welcome reception at 6.30pm on Day 1 at our first accommodation.
Departure airport: Lisbon (LIS)
- Your adventure concludes after breakfast on the final day.

Complimentary arrival and departure transfers are included between the airport and the tour’s designated start and end hotels on the first and last day of your tour. If you book additional pre-tour or post-tour nights at the designated start or end hotel through Exodus, your complimentary transfer will also be valid for those arrival and departure dates.

Additional charges may apply for transfers on different dates or to and from alternative hotels within the same city. To ensure arrangements can be made, complimentary transfers must be requested through your Signature Collection Travel Expert at least two weeks before your tour departure date.

Portugal

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Portugal. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/portugal
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/portugal
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal/entry-requirements
• USA:  www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Portugal.html

This journey is designed to deepen your connection to the country through its food and drink. Expect olive oil tastings and refined dining that pays tribute to Alentejo cuisine throughout. Where meals are not included, your Signature Guide will be on hand with considered recommendations, whether you choose to dine together or enjoy the evening at your own pace.

Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Spring and autumn bring mild days ideal for walking and outdoor dining, while summers are warm and dry. Winters are cooler yet often bright and pleasant.

As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.

We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.

This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.

We also weave Signature Legacy moments into your itinerary, so the positive impact of your trip lasts long after your stay. These are moments to remember which help people and nature thrive, ensuring you build a harmonious, positive connection with the places you visit.

On this journey, you can:

Stroll through the family-run estate behind award-winning Amor é Cego olive oil, walking ancient groves with the producers to discover traditional farming practices, biodiversity conservation and Alentejo’s rich agricultural heritage before sharing dinner with the family.
Meet the Flores sisters in Estremoz, master artisans preserving the UNESCO-listed, 300-year-old tradition of clay doll making and Alentejo’s creative heritage.
Visit a local cork workshop to discover how generations of craftsmanship and innovation transform one of Portugal’s most iconic natural resources into contemporary design pieces.