Day trip to the Alentejo

We signed up for a tour, lunch and tasting at Herdade do Rocim with the Algarve Wine Society. Instead of joining them on a coach ride from the Algarve we decided to drive ourselves and overnight in the Alentejo which gave us the opportunity to explore the countryside. The Alentejo is beautiful this time of year driving through miles of almond groves, vineyards and small villages. We visited Cuba & Vidigueira, stopping at Herdade do Rocim & overnighting at Quinta do Paral.

After a few hours driving, we caught up with the group at Herdade do Rocim for a tour, tasting and lunch.

After lunch it was a short drive to our next destination. The drive along a two lane country road lined with vineyards and oak groves reminded us of driving through the wine country of Sonoma or Paso Robles. We are staying tonight at the fairly new Quinta do Paral resort. The resort with only a few dozen rooms sits on a large area of landscaped grounds surrounded by vineyards. The amenities were very nice including a pool, walking paths, a restaurant and lounge. We didn't have a chance to visit the winery which is nearby but it looks exceptional too... The rooms were spacious and the views beautiful, we will definitely return.

Rural roads and small towns in Vidigueira