Romans, Rice & Storks

Roman ruins, the beaches of Comporta and the town on the Sado.

A long day heading up the Alentejo coast. The Roman ruins of Miróbriga, then the beaches, pine woods and rice fields of Comporta, with storks nesting on the poles, and the white town of Alcácer climbing from the banks of the Sado. Entry and meals are extra. For anyone who has heard of Comporta and wants to see it.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Santiago do Cacém e Miróbriga

   In Santiago do Cacém, the castle at the top of the town looks out over the plain and, on clear days, as far as the sea. A few minutes away are the Roman ruins of Miróbriga, with a temple, baths, houses and a hippodrome, a rarity in Portugal, set in quiet, little-visited countryside. Entry is paid separately. Go in the morning or late in the day, as there is little shade, and wear sturdy shoes for the uneven ground of the ruins.

2. 

   2

   Comporta

   Comporta is all long pale beaches, pine woods and rice fields, where storks nest on the poles and pick their way through the flooded paddies. The village keeps its low houses and slow pace, with a few design shops and beachside restaurants. It is a place for walking by the sea and eating well. Try a duck or seafood rice, paid separately, and stop at the stilt pier of Carrasqueira nearby in the late afternoon.

3. 

   3

   Alcácer do Sal

   Alcácer do Sal climbs in white houses from the banks of the Sado up to the castle, now home to a pousada hotel and an archaeological crypt that shows the town's many layers of history. Down below, the riverside promenade makes a pleasant walk, with salt pans and rice fields all around. It is a natural stop between the Alentejo and Lisbon. Try the local pine nuts, plain or in sweets, and climb to the castle in the late afternoon to watch the river.

The essentials

Duration

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

Anyone who has heard of Comporta and wants to see it.

The route