Hike and Explore the Wine Trails of Portugal
- Portugal
- 5 nights
Taste the authentic flavours of rural Alentejo as you hike, kayak and SUP among sun-drenched vineyards, olive groves and starry night skies
What's Included?
- Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides
- Accommodation5 nights in comfortable hotels or charming rural guesthouses with pool and superb views
- MealsAll breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners, plus wine and olive oil tastings
- TransfersA group airport transfer on arrival and departure, and all transfers in between
- Equipment Everything you need for kayaking and SUP
- Small Like-minded GroupsSolo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From…excluding flights
Highlights
Hike historic trails around Monsaraz, uncovering ancient megalithic sites, Roman roads, and olive groves that have shaped the region for centuries
Paddle Alqueva Lake under a canopy of stars, with an expert guide revealing the astral wonders of this certified Dark Sky Reserve
Taste the traditions of Alentejo with local dishes and specialities, wines crafted using ancient techniques, and olive oils made the Roman way
Relax in cosy rural guesthouses, including a peaceful retreat in Noudar Nature Park, one of the most remote corners of Portugal barely touched by tourism
Itinerary
Day 1
To Portugal's timeless Alentejo
Driving2hrsBoutique HotelTwin shareDinner includedShow Day 1 detailHide detail
Welcome to Portugal! Meet your host at Lisbon Airport and settle in for a two hour scenic drive east through the rural wine region of Alentejo. You'll get your first glimpses of the rolling hills, olive groves, vineyards, and charming whitewashed villages before arriving at your charming guesthouse on the outskirts of Monsaraz, which will be your home for the next two nights. This afternoon, settle into your cosy accommodation, get acquainted with your fellow travellers, and take some time to unwind - perhaps with a dip in the pool. As the day winds down, join your group for a delicious welcome dinner, where you'll savour local flavours and get an overview of the exciting itinerary ahead.
Day 2
Hike the trails of Monsaraz and sample local wines
Hiking3-4hrs · 14km · 200m up · 200m downBoutique HotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 2 detailHide detail
Kick off your day with a hike around Monsaraz, a perfect introduction to the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Discover ancient megalithic sites, royal roads once walked by kings, and remnants of Roman settlements. The trail winds through centuries-old olive groves that still produce some of Portugal’s finest olive oil. Take some time to wander Monsaraz's charming cobbled streets, soaking in views of rolling plains, lush vineyards, and the sparkling Alqueva Reservoir. In the afternoon, head over to Reguengos de Monsaraz to dive into Alentejo’s vibrant wine scene at a local winery. Learn the ropes of winemaking and enjoy tastings of reds, whites, and maybe even a rosé. Dinner isn’t included tonight, but your guide will point you to charming local spots where you can savour regional specialities like porco preto or migas alentejanas.
Day 3
Enjoy a boat trip in Alqueva Lake and taste Vinho de Talha
Hiking3hrs · 8km · 270m up · 270m downBoat Ride2hrsAgriturismoTwin or triple shareAll meals includedShow Day 3 detailHide detail
Say goodbye to Monsaraz and start the day with a peaceful cruise on Alqueva, Europe’s largest artificial lake, boasting over 1000 km of shoreline. From the Monsaraz pier, travel by boat across calm waters, weave among islands, and keep an eye out for wildlife and lush flora along the shores. If the weather’s on your side, take a dip before heading to Amareleja for a delicious lunch paired with Vinho de Talha, a traditional Alentejo wine made using 2000-year-old Roman methods. This afternoon, head to Noudar Natural Park, a beautiful sanctuary for conservation and ecotourism bordering Spain. As the day winds down, join your guide for an optional sunset hike to Noudar Castle or relax at your hilltop retreat with a drink by the infinity pool or on the terrace. Dinner tonight is a feast of fresh, local ingredients, celebrating the flavours of Alentejo. Don’t forget to look up, the area is a Dark Sky Reserve, meaning the starry night views are next-level.
Day 4
Hike in Contenda Reserve and kayak under the stars
Hiking2-3hrs · 8km · 198m up · 50m downKayaking1-2hrs · 5kmHotelTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 4 detailHide detail
Wake up to the sound of nature and tuck into breakfast with views of this peaceful, remote spot. Take a 45-minute drive to Contenda Natural Reserve, a haven for biodiversity and sustainable living. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like Iberian lynx, black storks, and deer as you head out on a guided hike through rolling hills, Mediterranean woodlands, and open spaces dotted with holm and cork oaks. Stop for a picnic lunch surrounded by wilderness before heading to the charming town of Moura, your base for the last two nights. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy free time to explore or unwind at your leisure. As evening falls, prepare for a unique experience – kayaking under the stars. You'll leave the shores of Alqueva Lake about an hour before sunset, paddling through serene waters. Along the way, you'll savour a tasting of local specialities while soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The night wraps up with a stargazing session led by your guide, uncovering the secrets of the constellations in one of Europe’s top spots for stargazing.
Day 5
SUP, olive oil tastings and a special farewell dinner
Stand Up Paddleboarding2hrs · 5kmHiking2hrs · 4km · 100m up · 100m downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and dinner includedShow Day 5 detailHide detail
Start your final full day in Alentejo with a relaxed SUP session - no experience needed! Paddle across calm waters surrounded by Alqueva’s stunning scenery before heading back to Moura for lunch (not included) with a chance to try some of the town’s tasty local dishes. In the afternoon, hike through Moura’s historic landmarks, including a visit to the Lagar de Varas do Fojo, an olive oil mill dating back to 1810. Here, you’ll see ancient techniques in action, with olive oil still being made the Roman way, no machinery, just animal power and know-how passed down through generations. Wrap up with a tasting of Alentejo’s finest oils, bursting with rich, bold flavours. Tonight, share a farewell dinner with your guide and group, celebrating the adventures of the past few days. The evening finishes on a high note with a live performance of Cante Alentejano, a traditional UNESCO World Heritage recognised style of singing with harmonies that will give you goosebumps.
Day 6
Goodbye Portugal!
Driving2.5hrsBreakfast includedShow Day 6 detailHide detail
After a memorable foodie adventure through the heart of Alentejo, this morning you’ll transfer back to Lisbon Airport in time for your flight home. If you're not ready to leave Portugal just yet, you have the option to extend your adventure with a few extra days in Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of history. Or explore Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, for a taste of urban culture and history.
Practical Stuff
Getting There
- Nearest airport
- Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Portela Airport) (LIS)
- Pick up
- Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport
14:30 on Day 1 - Drop off
- Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport
12:00 on Day 6
This Trip is Graded Level 1
What is and isn't Included?
What's included
- Guided hike around Monsaraz
- Private boat trip from Monsaraz pier to Aldeia da Estrela on the Alqueva lake
- Guided sunset hike in Noudar Natural Park
- Guided hike in Contenda Natural Reserve
- Guided sunset/night kayaking and stargazing experience
- Guided SUP
- An expert, local, English-speaking guide throughout the trip (two guides for groups of over 10 travellers) plus local activity guides for SUP and kayaking
- Plus local activity guides for SUP and kayaking
- 2 nights in a charming guesthouse with pool in Monsaraz
- 1 night in unique rural estate with pool in the remote natural park of Noudar
- 2 nights in a characterful historic hotel with pool in Moura
- 5 tasty breakfasts
- 2 picnic lunches
- 1 traditional lunch with wine tasting
- 4 delicious local dinners including a produce tasting under the stars and a farewell dinner with a traditional music peformance
- 1 winery visit and wine tasting in Monsaraz
- 1 olive oil tasting in Moura
- Group arrival transfer from Lisbon Airport on Day 1 (with optional free pick up in Evora)
- Group departure transfer to Lisbon Airport on Day 6 (with optional free drop off in Evora)
- All transfers by private vehicle during the trip
- Your main luggage will be transferred between hotels for you
- All you need for kayaking and SUP (including life vests)
What's not included
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
One dinner and one lunch are not included in the trip cost, to allow you a wider choice of meals and so that you can explore some local restaurants. We recommend you budget about €40-60 in total to cover these meals (excluding drinks)
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice, however we suggest the below as a guideline:
- €25 per person for the main guide
- €20 per person for the support guide (in case of big groups of 9-14 pax)
- €5 per person for the driver and luggage transfer service
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping and laundry.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness. Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine (opens in new tab), as their insurance offers all of the above.
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
Where You'll Stay
Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.
What You'll Eat
The cuisine of Alentejo is rooted in the region’s farming traditions and celebrates simple, hearty dishes packed with flavour. Meals are made with fresh, local ingredients like olive oil, bread, herbs, seasonal vegetables, and a variety of meats. You…
Optional Extras
Upgrades
- Optional Private Room Upgrade (Apr-May, Oct-Nov)
- …
- Optional Private Room Upgrade (Jun-Sep)
- …
For solo travellers looking for their own space, a private room can be booked for an extra charge – see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.
All extras must be paid before your trip starts.
Ratings & Reviews
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Category rating
- Food
- 5.0
- Guides & crew
- 5.0
- Accommodation
- 4.0
- Itinerary
- 5.0
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Before You Travel
What to Pack

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.
FAQs
How many guides and support crew will there be on my trip?
You'll be led by one experienced local guide and you'll have a driver taking care of the luggage transfers between the hotels. For groups of 9+ people, you'll be supported by a second guide.
What do I do about drinking water?
The local tap water is safe to drink. Please bring your own reusable water bottle to fill up at the hotels, public fountains and restaurants to avoid buying single-use plastic bottles.
Who at Much Better Adventures designed this trip?
Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamt of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.
Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 60 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, and challenging treks to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.
What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.
What is SUP?
SUP is short for Stand Up Paddleboarding, a fun and peaceful sport that brings you closer to nature and gives you the freedom to experience the water like never before. You'll stand or kneel on a paddleboard and use a long paddle to gently propel yourself across the lake. The paddleboards are wide and very stable, so it's not as wobbly as you might think. Another great thing about SUP is that's it completely beginner friendly and no matter your skill level, you're guaranteed to have fun!
What if things don't go to plan?
Overall, weather conditions in Alentejo should be pretty favourable in the months when this trip is scheduled to run, with plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures ranging from 18-27°C on average. However, as always, mother nature is unpredictable so the best you can do is to be prepared for anything and come equipped with sunscreen, a hat and waterproofs. Your host will be monitoring the weather conditions during the course of the trip and may suggest alternative, safer activities should the weather get particularly bad, or change the order and timings of the hikes. Occasionally, subject to the water and wind conditions, it may be not possible to run the SUP or kayaking excursions so alternative activities such as a night hike with stargazing or a hike in Moura will be arranged.
Can I book on my own?
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Who is running the trip?
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
What is the official travel advice?
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
What vaccinations do I need?
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
How are the trips priced?
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
Why are your adventures only for adults?
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
Who else will be on my trip?
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
What's the weather like?
The interior of Alentejo has a Mediterranean climate, with the added influence of the Atlantic Ocean moderating the temperatures. This ensures mild, pleasant weather year-round, but with more distinct temperature variations compared to coastal areas. For trips planned during spring (April March to early June) and autumn (late September to November), the weather conditions are ideal for outdoor activities, including hiking. In April, the temperatures in Monsaraz and Moura range from 14°C to 22°C. Although this season can bring occasional showers, it is one of the most scenic times to visit. The landscape comes alive with wildflowers in bloom and lush greenery, especially towards late spring, when conditions warm up and the region becomes perfect for outdoor exploration. Temperatures during May and June tend to rise to the mid-20s°C, making it a fantastic time for hiking and water based activities including swimming. Late September to October, temperatures are typically in the mid-20s°C, offering long, sunny days with little rain. By November, temperatures drop to around 15°C to 20°C, still mild and perfect for hiking and exploring the landscape.
What's the carbon footprint for this trip?
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 175kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
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Departure dates
Tuesday 16th June 2026
to Sunday 21st June 2026
Last minute - Host approval required
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