Country Roads of Portugal, a Women-Only Tour
Country Roads of Portugal, a Women-Only Tour
$4625
Country Roads of Portugal, a Women-Only Tour
11 Days Starting and ending in Lisbon
Visiting: Lisbon, Lagos, Évora, Fátima, Coimbra, Porto, Óbidos
Tour operator:
Tour code:
XE928M20
Specialist Group:
Women Only
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishActivities:
Tour Overview
Tantalize your senses during this 11-day women-only tour through Portugal. On this small group tour, a Local Expert shows you the historic downtown of Lisbon and the finest square in the city, Terreiro do Paco. From the hilltop perch of Monsaraz, see across the Spanish plains beyond Alqueva Lake and meet a local boat captain during a cruise on the lake’s calm waters. In Tomar, see the Templar Castle and explore its awe-inspiring rotunda with a Local Expert. Indulge in a farm-to-table meal featuring locally sourced ingredients. Taste port wine at Antónia Adelaide Ferreira’s cellars. Stroll through Portugal’s second city, Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage town, and relax in your contemporary hotel in the city’s picturesque historic district.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Porto: Enjoy a panoramic drive through historic avenues and past exquisite tiled facades.
- Porto: Visit the São Bento Railway Station and walk on the Dom Luís I Bridge, spanning the Douro River and connecting the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
Top Rated Highlights
- Évora: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site guided by your Local Expert and see the famous Roman Temple. While sightseeing, witness the fascinating cathedral and be charmed by its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Coimbra: Guided by your Local expert, head through Old Town and pass by the Old Cathedral and the Almedina neighbourhood.
- Coimbra: With a Local Expert, visit the University and witness the triumphal arches, painted ceilings, golden flourishes and walls of ancient tomes.
- Guimaraes: Enjoy views from the Visigothic castle ruins and explore a maze of medieval streets in the Old Quarter.
- Obidos: Lead by your Travel Director, walk through the picturesque narrow streets up to the main square of this ancient walled town.
- Lisbon: Explore with your Local Expert, from the Lower Town, beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paco. Visit the Belém Quarter to see the modern Monument to the Discoveries and the medieval Belém Tower.
- Monsaraz: Surrounded by cork oaks and vineyards, wander through the castle ruins to admire the incredible view over the Spanish plains that contrast with the blue of one of Europe's largest artificial lakes.
- Tomar: Dominating the town is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Templar Castle and the Convent of Christ. During your visit with a Local Expert, see the Manueline Window and follow the story of the mysterious Knights Templar.
- Tomar: Learn about the history of the town through its architectural influences as you take a tour guided by a Local Expert.
- Tomar: Guided by your Local Expert, visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal.
- Fátima: Join the faithful at one of the world's holiest sites and pay homage at the Chapel of the Apparitions and see the basilica.
Make Travel Matter
Évora: During a wine tasting session, appreciate the delicate yet complex nuances of Alentejo wine, and learn how the Relvas family has been managing to keep low water consumption, reforestation of indigenous trees, and providing scholarships to children of the village. This experience advances United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and production. With a 30% reduction in water use and innovative water management systems in place, they have been integrating science technology to ensure genuine production processes in all their activities.
Authentic Dining
Lisbon: Join your Travel Director at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant and the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travellers.
Porto: Shared experiences and memories are often the foundation for special bonds and friendships. Toast your travels with wine and good cheer during your Celebration Dinner at a restaurant in Porto, devoted to the enjoyment of regional cooking.
Monsaraz: Enjoy a memorable Alentejo Highlight Lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Indulge in dish-after-dish of the tastiest tapas in a vibrant setting.
Insight Choice
Porto: Enjoy a panoramic drive through historic avenues and past exquisite tiled facades.
Porto: Visit the São Bento Railway Station and walk on the Dom Luís I Bridge, spanning the Douro River and connecting the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Corinthia, Lisbon, Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
Accommodation Name: Corinthia, Lisbon, Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
Meals Included: Dinner
On arrival at Lisbon International Airport, there are complimentary transfers to your hotel. Settle in and relax before joining your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travellers during a pleasant evening of good food and wine.
Day 2: Lisbon And The Age Of The Great Discoveries
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Corinthia, Lisbon, Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
Accommodation Name: Corinthia, Lisbon, Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your guided sightseeing tour with a Local Expert takes you along the spacious avenues of the Lower Town and across tree-shaded squares. Pass beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paço. See the ancient Belém Tower and marvel at the Monument to the Discoveries. Explore more of the Belém Quarter as you learn how to make the iconic patisserie Pastéis de Belém. This evening, perhaps gain further insight into Portuguese culture over an optional meet-and-greet with a Fado singer followed by dinner and a Fado show.
Day 3: The Algarve
Location: Lagos
Accommodation: Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve, Real Marina Hotel &Spa
Accommodation Name: Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve, Real Marina Hotel &Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the River Tagus and head for the sun-drenched southern coast to reach Lagos, a fishing port nestled in the bay of Meia Praia. After free time to explore, continue to your resort hotel set within a magnificent 360-acre estate. Simplicity is in the soul of Algarve cuisine, along with seafood so fresh it still tastes of the sea. A short walk away specialised Portuguese seafood restaurants hug the coastline, overlooking the Atlantic.
Day 4: Everlasting Évora Relaxed Start
Location: Évora
Accommodation: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Accommodation Name: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the medieval walled city of Évora where cathedrals, churches, aqueducts and ancient castle walls all serve to create the feeling that this beautiful city is a living, breathing museum to Portugal's rich past. Join your Local Expert to explore the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Roman Temple and visit the Capela dos Ossos, an extraordinary 17th century chapel comprising the skulls and bones of 5,000 bones. Visit the cathedral with its attractive mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. With the rest of the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to continue to stroll through Évora’s unique historical centre, or the serene city park, following the aqueduct inside the city walls.
Day 5: Monsaraz And Évora Relaxed Start
Location: Évora
Accommodation: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Accommodation Name: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to the striking white village of Monsaraz, situated on an imposing hilltop, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. From the castle ruins, admire the spectacular views across to the dry Spanish plains, contrasting with the blue of Europe's largest artificial lake. Join a local boat captain for a leisurely cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life. Sit down to a delicious Highlight Lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Enjoy a wide range of tasty tapas dishes showcasing the local cuisine and soak up the vibrant; cheerful atmosphere. Return to Évora where the evening is at your leisure to explore this beautifully preserved regional capital.
Day 6: On To Fátima And Tomar Relaxed Start
Location: Fátima
Accommodation: Hotel dos Templários, Tomar
Accommodation Name: Hotel dos Templários, Tomar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit Casa Relvas for a wine tasting. Despite the dry climate of the Alentejo region, they have been producing exceptional wine using innovative techniques to reduce the use of water. Journey to Fátima, Portugal's most renowned place of pilgrimage. See the basilica or perhaps visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, which commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917. Continue to Tomar and visit one of Portugal’s historical jewels, the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With your Local Expert, explore the octagonal Templars' Rotunda in the cloister and glimpse the day-to-day life of a warrior monk in the domestic areas. Outside on the battlements, the Manueline Window is a national masterpiece. You also visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal, housing a small Jewish museum.
Day 7: Coimbra And The Douro Valley Relaxed Start
Location: Coimbra
Accommodation: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa, Douro Valley
Accommodation Name: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa, Douro Valley
Meals Included: Breakfast
In Coimbra, your Local Expert shows you the highlights and insights of the Old Town, including the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the impressive baroque university library, one of the finest in the world. Your journey continues past verdant hills and lush vineyards, along the tranquil waters of the Douro River. Visit Quinta da Pacheca where Maria Pimental, one of the first woman winemakers in the Douro, makes incredible wine. Gain insights into the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, a premier wine region with a growing presence of female winemakers.
Day 8: Guimarães And Porto Relaxed Start
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores, NH Collection Porto Batalha
Accommodation Name: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores, NH Collection Porto Batalha
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to Guimarães to admire the views from the ruined castle and explore the cobbled streets and cosy squares. Continue to Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage town and where Portugal originates to explore with Insight Choice. Choose to join your Local Expert and visit the São Bento Railway Station. Alternatively, enjoy a panoramic drive through the city led by a Local Expert. As evening descends, you are at leisure to enjoy your boutique, five-star hotel in the heart of Porto’s historic district. Sample the flavours of the region during a Caves Ferreira Visit and Port Tasting, gaining insight into winegrower Antónia Adelaide Ferreira. Afterwards, consider joining an Optional Experience to see the narrow façades of Porto's Ribeira district before cruising on a traditional Rabelo boat and dining at a riverside restaurant.
Day 9: Porto, Grande Dame On The Douro Relaxed Start
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores, NH Collection Porto Batalha
Accommodation Name: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores, NH Collection Porto Batalha
Meals Included: Breakfast
With a full day free to enjoy at your own pace, take a stroll to admire the Multi-coloured houses and churches covered in beautiful, glazed tiles. Perhaps choose to visit Braga, the capital of baroque. In the evening, enjoy a mouth-watering dinner with exquisite wine at an authentic Porto restaurant.
Day 10: Ancient Óbidos And Lisbon Relaxed Start
Location: Óbidos
Accommodation: Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
Accommodation Name: Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the fortified town of Óbidos and walk within its walls, exploring the narrow, medieval streets where houses are covered with flowers. Your travels continue to the Portuguese capital, Lisbon.
Day 11: Depart Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, your departure transfer arrives at Lisbon International Airport.
What's Included
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Complimentary Transfers
The tour includes complimentary transfers from Lisbon International Airport to your hotel.
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Guided Sightseeing
Enjoy guided sightseeing tours with Local Experts in various locations including Lisbon, Évora, Coimbra, and Tomar.
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Accommodation
Stay in luxurious accommodations such as the Corinthia and Dom Pedro Lisboa in Lisbon, Ria Park Hotel & Spa in Algarve, and M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto in Évora.
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Meals
The tour includes 4 Dinners with Wine, 10 Breakfasts, and 1 Lunch with Wine.
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Authentic Dining Experiences
Enjoy authentic dining experiences including a Welcome Dinner in Lisbon and a Celebration Dinner in Porto.
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Wine Tasting
Participate in wine tasting sessions, including a visit to Casa Relvas and Quinta da Pacheca.
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Cultural Experiences
Engage in cultural experiences such as a Pastéis de Belém cooking class and a visit to the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ in Tomar.
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Cruise on Lake Alqueva
Join a local boat captain for a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a meet-and-greet with a Fado singer followed by dinner and a Fado show are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks outside of the included meals are not covered.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International flights to and from Lisbon are not included in the tour package.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Insight Experiences
- Monsaraz: Join a local boat captain for a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life.
Women-Only
- Douro Valley: Savour local flavours over a Farm-to-Table meal at Quinta da Pacheca. Learn about the esteemed winemaker Maria Pimental, who holds the distinct honour of being among the first woman winemakers in the Douro. Well-known for her work as a professor at Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Maria was influenced by her grandfather, who established wineries and served as president of the Port Wine Institute until 1976. When her grandfather passed in 2000, Maria returned to her home to help her family with the harvest. She then began working at Quinta da Pacheca as its winemaker, a position she holds proudly to this day.
- Porto: Delve into the history of Port wine and immerse yourself in the story of winegrower Antónia Adelaide Ferreira at Ferreira Cellars. Embark on a guided tour starting at the House of Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, where hundreds of vats and casks age the wine. Then, explore the Vintage Museum and garden before tasting White, Ruby and Tawny Port wine. You’ll be captivated by the tale of “Ferreirinha,’’ who helped the Douro region to develop, modernise and thrive.
- Lisbon: Portugal offers endless opportunities for the curious traveller. Delve into the culinary world over a Pastéis de Belém cooking class with a professional chef. In this hands-on class, learn how to make the famous and delicious Portuguese pastry and gain insights into the secret behind its crunchy puff pastry. Conclude your class by tasting your creation, paired with coffee, tea or juice.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva with a local boat captain, a wine tasting session at Casa Relvas focusing on sustainable practices, and a Pastéis de Belém cooking class in Lisbon. Additionally, there is a visit to the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ in Tomar, and a tour of the Ferreira Cellars in Porto to learn about the history of Port wine.
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What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
The tour offers several authentic dining experiences, including a Welcome Dinner in Lisbon, a Celebration Dinner in Porto, and a Highlight Lunch at Sem Fim in Monsaraz, which was once an olive mill. You will also enjoy a Farm-to-Table meal at Quinta da Pacheca in the Douro Valley.
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Are there any special activities related to wine on this tour?
Yes, the tour includes several wine-related activities. You will participate in a wine tasting session at Casa Relvas, visit Quinta da Pacheca in the Douro Valley to learn about winemaking, and explore the Ferreira Cellars in Porto to delve into the history of Port wine.
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What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour visits several historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Évora, the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ in Tomar, and the University of Coimbra. You will also explore the medieval streets of Óbidos and the historic district of Porto.
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What is the focus of the 'Make Travel Matter' experience on this tour?
The 'Make Travel Matter' experience focuses on sustainable wine production at Casa Relvas in Évora. You will learn about their innovative techniques to reduce water usage and their efforts in reforestation and providing scholarships to local children, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 12.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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