Portugal on a Plate - Lisbon to the Algarve with Portugal by TravelTailors
With its irresistible flavours, world-renowned wines and breathtaking landscapes, a foodie tour of Portugal is one sure to set the senses alight. This beautifully laid-back land and Portugal by TravelTailors DMC knows exactly how to satisfy your guests’ appetites for gastronomic adventure, whether they’re devouring pastèis de nata, savouring a glass of wine with fresh seafood by the coast or indulging in one of the many (many!) exceptional eateries.
In Part One of our “Flavours of Portugal” tour, we took your guests on a 9-day culinary adventure guided by the very best - our expert friends at Portugal by TravelTailors. Heading south from the charming cobblestone streets of Porto, we wove through the verdant vineyards of the Douro, stopped to take in the traditional fishing villages of the West coast and finished with a luxurious flourish in vibrant Lisbon - with all with the unique touches, hidden gems and off-trail experiences we’ve come to expect from this exceptional DMC.
Read “The Flavours of Portugal: Part One” HERE - Read other inspirational articles from Portugal by TravelTailors HERE
And of course, we’ve turned to Portugal at TravelTailors again for this second leg of itinerary inspiration. Here we continue south, travelling down through the lush Alentejo wine region to the coastal paradise of the Algarve, whose rugged coastline and azure waters provide an idyllic backdrop for seafood delights and the bounty of sun-drenched orchards.
A Coastal Tour in the “Kitchen on Wheels” - Setúbal, Azeitão and Arrabida
Leaving Lisbon is always a wrench, but we’re sure we can soothe the blow with a fabulously unique VIP gastronomic experience that takes in Setubal, Azeitão and Arrabida over the course of a day. Guided by the brilliant Chef Artur, guests are treated to an exclusive private tour along the coast in his “kitchen on wheels”, stopping to sightsee, pick up ingredients and indulge in Chef’s incredible, fresh-cooked dishes enjoyed in unbeatable seaside settings.
The day’s adventure begins amidst the lively atmosphere and authentic flavours of Setúbal's farmers’ market, where an intoxicating array of fresh produce and seafood is sold alongside beautifully crafted artisanal goods. From the plump tomatoes and fragrant herbs to the succulent seafood straight from the Atlantic, every stall here tells a story of local abundance and culinary tradition; the friendly vendors offering samples of juicy oranges, velvety cheeses and crusty breads.
Armed with the best and freshest local ingredients, guests are treated to a traditional Portuguese breakfast with Chef at a local bakery before visiting a shellfish farm to choose seafood straight from the ocean to cook for lunch. Heading to the stunning Arrábida hills with their breathtaking Atlantic panorama, Chef will find the perfect spot for lunch and guide guests through cooking the morning’s bounty with a private lesson in the van’s wonderfully well-equipped kitchen - complemented with a little outdoor grilling - to create a meal fit for VIPs!
After this delicious light lunch, guests have time to relax - napping in the sun, or taking the plunge at the beach - before visiting the village of Azeitão in the rolling hills of the Setúbal Peninsula. This beautiful little enclave is famous for its delectable cheeses, particularly the creamy Azeitão cheese made from sheep's milk, its speciality sweets and its local Moscatel wines which are rightly renowned for their quality - all of which visitors should seize the opportunity to taste. And here, guests should also make sure to tick off the village’s historic landmarks, especially the stunning Quinta da Bacalhôa palace, and marvel at the intricate azulejo tiles adorning centuries-old buildings.
In the evening, guests check into their Alentejo accommodation, the prime pick being the simply stunning 5* São Lourenço do Barrocal. Surrounded by lush, undulating countryside and olive groves, this tranquil retreat was once a traditional Alentejo farmstead. Now lovingly restored, today this boutique hotel seamlessly blends historic charm with modern elegance, offering beautifully appointed guest rooms, suites and cottages, a luxurious spa and exceptional dining experiences based on a farm-to-table concept that showcase the best of regional cuisine and ingredients.
Alternative hotel suggestions in Alentejo:
Herdada da Malhadinha Nova 5*
Dá Licença 5*
Vermelho Hotel by Louboutin 5*
The Authentic Charm of Évora and Alentejo
One of Portugal’s oldest cities, Évora’s rich heritage has left it with an architectural treasure trove that ranges from Roman ruins to mediaeval marvels, their incredible preservation seeing the city deservedly awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1986.
Essentially an open air museum, the city is steeped in history, its walls and buildings remaining practically unchanged for centuries. A privately guided walking tour is the perfect way to soak up the unique atmosphere and discover the very best of this fascinating place. Strolling through Evora's winding cobblestone streets, guests first visit the enigmatic church of St Francis and its hauntingly beautiful Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos) which, adorned with human skulls and bones, offers a thought-provoking glimpse into mortality and spirituality.
Continuing up the narrow, Old Town streets, visitors reach Giraldo Square, once home to the Inquisition headquarters, before heading on to the iconic Roman Temple and the spectacular 13th century Cathedral of Evora (Sé de Évora), its Manueline-style details catching the eye even against the imposing silhouette of former royal palace, the Alcázar de Évora.
Once a prestigious Jesuit colleague, the city’s University has been a thriving hub of learning and culture since the 16th century, and marks the end of the walking tour - but there’s much more to uncover in this vibrant place. Évora hosts festivals, concerts and exhibitions throughout the year and is home to some wonderfully lively markets, where locals and visitors gather to buy fresh produce, handicrafts and traditional delicacies.
And no visit would be complete without sampling the region's hearty culinary delights. Portugal by TravelTailors recommend trying one of the city’s super-traditional restaurants - Fialho or O Alpendre being their suggestion. Here, savoury dishes like migas, açorda and carne de porco à alentejana are a delicious and authentic representation of the region’s fare, pairing perfectly with one of the robust local wines. Full and happy, the afternoon brings the chance to head deeper into this gorgeous region with a long tradition of producing wines that surprise for their excellence, aromas and colours as unique as the landscape and culture.
Once, these fertile lands were an expanse of wheat fields - but no longer. The wheat has been replaced with vines that stretch as far as the eye can see, their grapes basking in the power of the landscape and the heat. Here, a VIP visit to one of Portugal by TravelTailors’ unique wineries - Herdade das Servas, Dona Marina or Cartuxa - is the perfect way to round off the afternoon. These tastings put the best of Alentejo’s premium vintages in the glass, from fresh, aromatic and balanced whites to full-bodied reds which manage to be both intense and smooth at the same time.
The Ancestry of Vinho de Talha and the Brotherhood of Porco Preto
After a restful evening enjoying the luxury and gastronomy of the hotel, the morning brings a truly unique experience!
The Alentejo region has long been the guardian of the ancient Talha winemaking tradition of the Romans - a method whose ancestry is drenched deep into these fertile soils. Handed down from generation to generation, with each winemaker adding their own expertise and passion to the process, the art for fermenting and ageing wine in large clay amphorae called Talhas has remained largely unchanged for two millennia - the embodiment of centuries of craftsmanship.
Enjoying a contemporary renaissance, modern consumers are rediscovering these rich, complex blends with deep historic roots, which perfectly capture the essence of the Alentejo terroir and make a fabulously tasty aperitif for lunch! With such heritage fresh on the palette, a meal at a super-traditional restaurant is the ideal way to set up another gastronomic adventure - this one a truly special gift for the foodies.
Barrancos is home to the protected Brotherhood of "Porco Preto" Ham, or "Presunto de Barrancos," a revered institution in Portugal's culinary landscape that is dedicated to maintaining the centuries-old traditions of curing and preserving the prized black Iberian pig. At Barrancos, guests visit a smoke house where this renowned ham, known in Spain as “Pata Negra” and in Portugal as “Porco Preto”, is produced, learning all about this culinary labour of love that requires patience, skill and meticulous attention to detail right through from the selection of the finest pigs to the careful seasoning and ageing of the meat.
This VIP private visit to the Casa do Porco Preto (Black PIg’s house) is a tour full of flavour, with a ham carving workshop and, naturally, a tasting of the outstanding produce - a fabulous way to round off this day of unique culinary discovery!
The Signature Wines of Southern Alentejo
As guests begin their descent to the Algarve coast, there’s still time for one more tour amongst the vines of the Alentejo - this time sampling the signature wines produced in the far south of the region. With the weather here much hotter and a limestone-based soil, it’s taken a new generation of producers to uncover the potential of Granja-Amareleja, Moura and Vidigueira. But uncover it they have - and in real style too, as guests can learn for themselves with a visit with lunch and wine-tasting at premium wineries like Quinta do Quetzal, Quinta de Ribafreixo or Malhadinha Nova.
What to try first? It’s the indigenous white Antão Vaz grape that’s the star of the show here. Known for its vibrant acidity and aromatic profile, the Antão Vaz vines thrive here, bringing a refreshing burst of citrus and tropical fruit flavours that are often complemented by hints of floral and herbal notes. Whether enjoyed as a crisp aperitif or paired with local seafood dishes, these are wines of exceptional quality and character that showcase the essence of Alentejo's terroir with every sip.
Hitting the coast - the Algarve beckons…
And finally, it’s time to enter the magical Algarve.
After checking into their hotel, guests have the whole first afternoon to kick back and relax - perhaps on the region’s soft sandy beaches, perhaps with a glass of fine wine in hand and a view across the glittering ocean. And where to stay here? Portugal by TravelTailors love the exceptional setting and peerless service offered by the 5* Vila Vita Parc. A member of the “Leading Hotels of the World”, this award-winning coastal resort offers discerning travellers a haven of tranquillity and indulgence, with breathtaking ocean views, sumptuous rooms, world-class amenities and exquisite dining - the perfect base for a few days’ exploration of the Algarve.
The evening brings an ideal opportunity for indulgence, with the chance for dinner at one of the Algarve’s Michelin starred restaurants - one of which, the Ocean Restaurant by Hans Neuner, is at the Vila Vita Parc itself. For those who fancy something further afield, Dieter Koschina’s Vila Joya, Henrique Leis and São Gabriel by Leonel Pereira are all within easy driving distance.
Alternative hotel suggestions in the Algarve:
Authentic Eating in the Algarve
Day dawns and brings two of the most authentic culinary experiences that this fabulous region has to offer. In the morning, guests embark on a private fishing experience, joining real local fishermen on board their traditional wooden boat. With fishing rods and bait included, guests sail the languid lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a pristine sanctuary of natural beauty and biodiversity.
Stretching over 60 kilometres, this protected area encompasses a mosaic of salt marshes, tidal flats, lagoons and barrier islands - a haven for countless species of birds, fish and marine life that’s also a beautifully tranquil place to fish or just have fun. Staying in this stunning setting, the afternoon sees guests take part in a Clam Picking experience, joining a local experienced fisherman as he goes about his normal daily tasks and guided by a marine biologist as they learn the old, sustainable ways of razor and clam picking. This is a real-life adventure, full of ancient skills and secrets - and better still, it ends with a delicious oyster tasting, accompanied by a glass of fine local wine!
How do you follow such fresh fare? We’d suggest one of the must-eat dishes of the Algarve - Chicken Piri-Piri. An evening trip to the town of Guia is the best place to sample this classic recipe, tucking into the roasted meat coated in its hot, spicy sauce for one of the most authentic gastronomic experiences in Portugal.
Coastal Cuisine, Capes and the Historic town of Lagos
How do we cap this idyllic tour of the flavours of Portugal? By blending the country’s scenery and history with the freshest fruits of the ocean.
A morning tour visits the Cape of Sagres, Portugal’s most south westerly point and a place with a unique role in the country’s history. This windswept promontory steeped in history and legend was known as "The End of the World" to ancient mariners, its rugged headland offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against towering cliffs.
Home to the historic fortress, Prince Henry the Navigator’s Fortaleza de Sagres, the cape is shrouded in maritime lore and exploration. Here, visitors can gaze in awe at the dramatic cliffs, explore the fortress ruins and contemplate the courage of early navigators who set sail from these shores into the unknown vastness of the ocean.
Nearby Lagos, a picturesque coastal town, is a harmonious blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Its name taken from the Portuguese word for lakes, Lagos is famed for its stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters and historic old town, a beguiling place of ancient walls, cobbled streets, charming squares and quaint cafes. It was here that the first ships set out to launch the Portuguese Age of Discoveries, and here that Gil Eanes sailed out to prove that the world didn’t end at the fearsome Cape Bojador and that the sea wasn’t full of monsters.
So here too, the past is full of tales of ocean-going adventurers, pirates and sailors. And in the present, that ancient relationship with the sea is still vividly visible - from the colourful trawlers that bring fish to market to the boats that come from all over the world to moor in the luxurious marina. It would be almost criminal not to delight in the local seafood here, with endless specialities on offer, from cataplana to specialities like carapaus alimados (marinated horse mackerel) and stuffed squid. Sweets are another highlight, the dom-rodrigos (an egg and almond dessert) of the nuns of Nossa Senhora do Carmo being a must.
And there’s just time for one more stop - this time to a traditional town preserving centuries-old culinary traditions, from bread baking to fruit liqueurs to the famous Algarvian almond sweet cakes - before returning to the hotel for a last evening in sumptuous luxury.
The True Taste of Lisbon
Waking after a night in luxurious Lisbon accommodation, the 5* The One Palacio da Anunciada being a firm Travel Kinship favourite (alternatives listed below), there’s time to explore more of this lively capital city. A morning wander through the historic neighbourhoods - many within a stone’s throw of the boutique 16th century hotel - reveals a world of charming cafes and bustling markets; tantalising aromas and colourful displays.
At the markets Mercado da Ribeira and Mercado de Campo de Ourique, sample the freshest local produce and seafood around, from cheeses, olives and cured meats to freshly shucked oysters and grilled sardines, a quintessential Lisbon experience. If guests haven’t tried it yet, the flavourful arroz de marisco, a delicious seafood rice stew, is a must for an early lunch, with versions of this traditional dish to be found in cosy tasca-style eateries serving petiscos (small plates) and sleek Michelin-starred restaurants alike.
Or, for those yearning to taste Lisbon's street food culture, head to the trendy neighbourhoods of Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré, where food trucks and stalls line the streets offering everything from gourmet burgers to traditional bifana sandwiches.
Alternative hotel suggestions in Lisbon:
And it’s here that we wrap up this exploration of Portugal's gastronomy—though, thanks to Portugal by TravelTailors’ bespoke itineraries, your guests can continue for as long as they wish!
To create a bespoke tour that delivers on your clients’ every travel goal, get in touch for an introduction today and explore Example Itineraries by Destination and Theme in Portugal by TravelTailors’ Sales Toolkit HERE.
