Clay & Cheese

Wine made in clay amphorae as the Romans did, and the cheese of Serpa.

A long day through the lower Alentejo, at the table and in the cellar. Beja in the morning, then a Vidigueira winery where wine still ferments in clay jars, and the creamy cheese of Serpa at the end of the day. Tastings and meals are extra, and your driver does the driving. For lovers of wine and food.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Beja

   Beja is the capital of the Lower Alentejo, with a historic centre that is easy to explore on foot. The castle keep, tall and graceful, can be climbed for views across the plain as far as the eye can see. Nearby is the Conceição convent, now a museum, with tiles and gilded woodwork, linked to the love story of the Portuguese Letters. Entry fees are paid separately. Visit in the morning, and at lunch order migas or pork with clams, Alentejo style.

2. 

   2

   Vidigueira (vinho de talha)

   In Vidigueira, a town linked to Vasco da Gama, several wineries still make wine as the Romans did, fermented in large clay jars called talhas. Stepping into one of these cellars, with the jars lined up and the smell of fermenting grapes, you see a living tradition rather than a show. Tastings are booked ahead and paid separately, and your driver waits while you take your time. Autumn is the best season, when the jars are opened and the new wine is tasted with local snacks.

3. 

   3

   Serpa

   Serpa is a white town ringed by walls, with an aqueduct running right alongside them and a castle that looks out over the Guadiana plain. The lanes are narrow, lined with whitewashed houses trimmed in yellow and blue, and the square has shaded cafés. It is also the home of Serpa cheese, made from sheep's milk and creamy inside. Taste it in a café or take one home with some Alentejo bread. In the hot months, plan your visit for the morning.

The essentials

Duration

9–10 h · Full day

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

Lovers of wine and food.

The route