The Medieval Town of Monsaraz, Portugal
A hilltop treat.
Our Portuguese road trip continues, we leave Lagos and head north-east driving through some beautiful scenery. We are on our way to Évora, however, before we arrive, we’ve read about the lovely hilltop town of Monsaraz, and it looks far too pretty to pass up a visit.
Monsaraz looks down upon the River Guadiana, and we are so close to Spain that you can almost smell the sherry wafting across the border.
Tip
Parking – There are car parks dotted along the road leading up to Monsaraz and parking is free of charge.
Ancient Footsteps
The medieval walled town of Monsaraz is incredibly charming, how could you resist the allure of wandering amongst the perfectly kept white-washed homes and along the historic cobbled lanes.
Go with the flow
I was sceptical that it may be rather touristy, and it really wasn’t. It felt like family life was still at the heart of the town, ladies and gents chatting on street corners and locals tending to their everyday business.
We were there on May Day, and it was relaxing just strolling along a quiet lane admiring the scenery and architecture, and so often no-one else was around.
Tempted to?
Discover more of historic Portugal and tour its picturesque countryside or even head south to the Algarve coastline. You can do it all on a road trip, Rental Cars searches multiple well-known car hire brands and discovers the deals that suit you the best.
Turbulent times
The views were incredible from the town, Alentejo countryside as far as the eye could see. It’s easy to understand why this prominent piece of land was fought over so many times for centuries.
Passing between different hands including the Moors, the Spanish and even the Knights Templar got their hands on it.
A reference guide
Our recent new found love is Portugal, it is such a beautiful country. While planning our trip, I used the DK Eyewitness books. I find them extremely informative, easy to follow and the pictures and maps tempt you into discovering more.
We used a previous version of this book to plan our north to south Portuguese road trip, now you can grab the revised copy.
To the castle
Monsaraz is a reasonably small town as you can imagine being on a hill, perched on one end is the 13th-century castle, built by Afonso III and Dinis.
The main visible part of the castle is the keep, however, at its feet is a garrison, which on the inside courtyard almost looks like an amphitheatre. I have since found out that this small arena is still used for an occasional bullfight.
Did you know?
The Alentejo region of Portugal is famed for its wine, touring around we saw row after row of vineyards. I’m surprised we don’t see more Portuguese wines overseas, although, perhaps they want to keep it for themselves.
Around the corners
Heading back along more lovely little lanes and squares we come across Church of Nossa Senhora da Lagoa and the white marble Pillory of Monsaraz, everything blends in so well.
Have You
Visited Portugal and discovered any towns or cities that you really want to share with us, as we can’t wait to start planning our next road trip?
Quiet spot
Keep strolling around, and you’ll find more quiet spots. I must say it was a real treat visiting Monsaraz, it’s a town I highly recommend and certainly one I thought would have been busier.
Inspired to visit Monsaraz?
Stroll along the charming cobbled lanes, amongst the white-washed walls. While you can stay for the evening in Monsaraz, we also recommend Évora a UNESCO town just 33 miles (53km) away.
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