A Taste of Portugal: 8 days through its authenticity

By We Love Small Hotels | 15 April 2025

Portugal, with its captivating coastline, ancient cities and rolling countryside, is a land where time moves at its rhythm. While Lisbon and Porto steal the spotlight, the soul of Portugal lies in its quiet corners, where cobbled streets echo centuries-old stories, vineyards blanket sun-drenched hills and locals welcome you with a warm smile and a glass of wine. This 8-day itinerary is a deep dive into the lesser-known heart of Portugal, where authenticity reigns and every stop is a postcard moment waiting to happen.

Days 1 & 2 – Douro Valley & Historical Villages: A Journey Through Time and Vineyards

Welcome to the Douro Valley, one of the oldest wine regions in the world, where terraced vineyards cascade down the hillsides and time-honored villages dot the landscape like hidden gems.

Day 1 – Explore the Douro by Bike & Sleep Among the Vines

Begin your journey in the heart of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic scenery and world-class wines. This region is best explored slowly, by bike or on foot, winding through vineyard-lined roads and quaint riverfront towns.

What to do:

• Cycle through the valley, following gentle paths that take you past rolling vineyards, olive groves, and charming hamlets.
• Stop for a riverside picnic and soak in panoramic views of the Douro River.
• Visit a family-run wine estate, where you can taste the iconic Port wine and learn about centuries-old winemaking traditions.

Where to sleep:

Check in at Quinta de Ventozelo, a serene wine estate where luxury meets authenticity. Nestled in the hills with breathtaking views, this restored quinta offers elegant rooms, local cuisine and walking trails through the vineyards.

Day 2 – Discover the Secrets of Portugal’s Historical Villages

Leave the riverbanks behind and head inland to explore the Historical Villages of Portugal, where cobbled streets, medieval castles and stone houses whisper tales of the past. These villages are the soul of inland Portugal, each one offering a unique window into the country's heritage.

What to do:

• Stroll through Marialva or Castelo Rodrigo, two of the best-preserved historical villages in the region.
• Climb up to ancient castle ruins and take in sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
• Meet local artisans and discover age-old crafts, from weaving to traditional stonework.

Where to sleep:

End the day at Casas do Côro, a beautifully restored boutique guesthouse in Marialva that blends tradition with comfort. With stunning design, an organic garden and an excellent restaurant, this is a perfect place to unwind after a day of cultural discovery.

These first two days are a gentle immersion into the timeless beauty of northern Portugal, where history, wine and nature come together in perfect harmony.

Days 3 & 4 – Schist Villages: Trails Through Timeless Mountain Life

Venture into the heart of central Portugal, where the Schist Villages (Aldeias do Xisto) sit quietly tucked into the slopes of the Lousã mountains. These traditional villages, made of stone and charm, are havens of authenticity, sustainability and slow living.

Day 3 – Hike the Trails of the Schist Villages & Sleep in Nature

Trade the vineyards of the north for the forested hills of central Portugal. The Schist Villages are best explored on foot, connecting village to village through age-old trails once used by shepherds and locals.

What to do:

• Hike from village to village, following well-marked trails through pine forests, terraced fields, and riverside paths.
• Explore villages like Ferraria de São João and Gondramaz, where schist stone houses and slate roofs transport you to another time.
• Swim in natural river pools or simply pause in the shade of chestnut trees for a moment of pure stillness.

Where to sleep:

Stay at Vale do Ninho Nature Houses, an eco-retreat built from schist and nestled into the hills. Here, modern comfort meets nature’s rhythm, offering the perfect place to rest after a full day of walking.

Day 4 – Art, Creativity, and Peace in Cerdeira Village

Continue your journey deeper into the mountains and into one of the most creative and peaceful villages in Portugal, Cerdeira. This car-free village has been reborn as a hub for art, craft and slow tourism.

What to do:

• Wander through the narrow alleys of Cerdeira, where artists’ studios, workshops and restored schist houses breathe new life into the village.
• Join a traditional ceramics or woodcraft workshop guided by local artisans.
• Visit the Cerdeira art gallery and café and enjoy a moment of stillness with a view of the surrounding forest.

Where to sleep:
Spend the night in one of Cerdeira’s artistic schist cottages, each uniquely decorated with handcrafted details and a deep sense of place. Falling asleep here feels like being part of a story still being written.

These two days are a celebration of Portugal’s quieter, more soulful side, a journey through landscapes shaped by tradition, resilience and the gentle touch of time.

Days 5 & 6 – Heart of Alentejo: Castles, Wine & Endless Skies

In the heart of Alentejo, where golden fields stretch endlessly and time flows gently, you’ll find the soul of Portugal. This is a land of ancient castles, sun-drenched vineyards and a deep connection to tradition, offering peace, flavor and a sense of timeless beauty.

Day 5 – Estremoz: Marble, Markets & Heritage

Begin your journey in Estremoz, a charming hilltop town known for its white marble, traditional markets and royal history.

What to do:

• Wander the cobbled streets of the old town, climbing up to the castle for panoramic views over the Alentejo plains.
• Explore the local market (especially on Saturdays) and discover regional crafts and ceramics.
• Taste authentic Alentejo cuisine, paired with a glass of local wine at a traditional restaurant.
• Visit nearby family-run wineries to learn about local grape varieties and the secrets of the land.

Where to sleep:

Stay at Casa Gadanha, a stylish and welcoming boutique guesthouse in the center of Estremoz. With elegant interiors and a breakfast full of regional delights, it’s a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Day 6 – Monsaraz: Hilltop Magic & Wine Country Charm

On the following day, head south to the magical village of Monsaraz. Perched high above the Alqueva Lake, this walled village feels like a place suspended in time.

What to do:

• Stroll through the whitewashed streets of Monsaraz, soaking in its medieval charm.
• Visit the castle for breathtaking views over the lake and surrounding countryside.
• Explore local traditions and crafts, from handmade textiles to regional stories and folklore.
• Enjoy a wine tasting at a local estate or simply sip a glass with a view at sunset.

Where to sleep:
Spend the night at the serene and luxurious São Lourenço do Barrocal, a historic estate turned refined retreat. Set among olive groves and vineyards, it offers a peaceful escape with farm-to-table dining, a holistic spa and the quiet luxury of nature.

These two days offer an immersive experience in the heart of Alentejo, where every stone, sip and sunset tells the story of a region deeply rooted in authenticity and beauty.

Days 7 & 8 – The Wild Southwest Coast: Yoga, Surf & Slow Living

End your journey on Portugal’s untamed southwest coast, where dramatic cliffs meet golden beaches and the rhythm of life slows to nature’s pace. This stretch of Alentejo, along the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, invites you to unwind, reconnect and embrace the wild freedom of the sea, sand and sky.

Day 7 – Porto Covo: Coastal Trails & Mindful Moments

Start your coastal escape in Porto Covo, a quaint fishing village surrounded by breathtaking Atlantic views and quiet energy. Known for its rugged beauty and uncrowded beaches, this is the ideal place to slow down and breathe deeply.

What to do:

• Walk part of the Rota Vicentina, the renowned coastal trail and discover hidden beaches like Praia do Queimado and Praia da Samoqueira.
• Join a gentle yoga or mindfulness session in nature, grounding yourself with the sights and sounds of the ocean.
• Try a beginner’s surf lesson on a quiet beach nearby perfect for those wanting a playful and active way to connect with the sea.
• Explore the village, where local cafés, craft shops, and sea views offer a serene afternoon.

Where to sleep:
Stay at the beautiful Monte da Bemposta, a restored farmhouse offering the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Surrounded by open fields and close to the ocean, it’s a peaceful base to rest, recharge and take in the essence of the Alentejo coast.

Day 8 – Vila Nova de Milfontes: Between River and Sea

Continue south to Vila Nova de Milfontes, a laid-back town where the Mira River meets the Atlantic, creating a unique landscape of calm waters, wide beaches and lush greenery.

What to do:

• Start your morning with a coastal hike or surf session, taking advantage of the region’s natural beauty and active lifestyle.
• Take a dip where the river meets the sea, which is ideal for families or those looking for calmer waters.
• Discover Herdade do Touril’s surrounding nature trails, on foot or by bike and enjoy the peaceful countryside just steps from the ocean.
• Savor a farewell dinner by the sea, celebrating with fresh local fish, seafood rice and regional wines.

Where to sleep:
Spend your final night at the Herdade do Touril, a charming rural retreat with views over rolling fields and the Atlantic in the distance. The peaceful setting, stylish simplicity and warm hospitality make it the perfect place to reflect on your journey.

This final stretch of your week in Portugal wraps everything together: natural beauty, slow living, and a deep connection to the land and sea. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best way to travel is simply to be present—barefoot in the sand, wind in your hair and the horizon ahead.