Looking for an authentic and fun escape to Portugal? Try a few days in Reguengos de Monsaraz, a charming wine town set in the heart of Portugal’s Alentejo. For a place often described as a "market town,” the variety of experiences available was absolutely astounding. Set against the backdrop of the magnificent Alentejo plain, the blue waters of the Alqueva Lake, and dark skies at night - Reguengos de Monsaraz is truly a wonderful destination to sample traditions, wines and crafts in Portugal.
A Hub of Agriculture and Tradition
Bordered by the towns of Redondo and Alandroal to the north, Mourão to the east, Moura and Portel to the south, with Évora to the west, Reguengos de Monsaraz is set in a predominantly agricultural region. This area’s way of life is deeply connected to the land, with a focus on extensive cereal farming, olive cultivation, and vineyards. And, not far away is Monsaraz, the walled medieval village in the hills. It retains its medieval magic like few places in the world. Made of whitewash and schist, Monsaraz rises high above the lake.
Throughout this region, called the Alentejo, you can explore small whitewashed villages that have managed to maintain their original character and offer, among other things, a rich regional cuisine based on local animal products and native aromatic herbs.
The Spirit of Tradition
From the intricate artistry of its wool blankets and pottery to the robust flavors of its wines and the stunning scenery of Alqueva, Reguengos de Monsaraz embodies the cultural and natural richness of Alentejo. Whether you are exploring the legacy of the Mantas de Reguengos or the artisanal pottery of São Pedro do Corval, or savoring the wines of José de Sousa, this area offers a wealth of experiences that blend tradition with modernity.
Timeless Craft of Mantas de Reguengos
Reguengos de Monsaraz is recognized for its handicrafts, particularly the famous Mantas de Reguengos (Reguengos blankets). Wool work has been an essential part of the region’s history, dating back to the 16th century. The tradition was formalized in the 1930s when a workshop brought together masters and apprentices in the art of wool-craft. Decades later, the workshop evolved into Fábrica Alentejana de Lanifícios.
In 1977, Dutch artisan Mizette Nielsen took over the business, preserving the prestige and quality of Reguengos mantas while introducing innovative designs that kept the tradition alive. Her efforts added a new dimension to this iconic art, ensuring that the cultural identity of Alentejo remained relevant.
The legacy continues today under new owners who took ownership in January 2020. They have kept alive the wool craft tradition of Alentejo, focusing on sustainability, local artisan support, and the introduction of new products that blend ancient techniques with contemporary design.
The Fábrica Alentejana de Lanifícios is open for tours of its century old looms, and takes special orders with an extensive shop of its products..
São Pedro do Corval: The Heart of Alentejo Pottery
Just a few miles from Reguengos de Monsaraz and even closer to the village of Monsaraz is São Pedro do Corval, a village with a rich pottery tradition. São Pedro do Corval has more than 25 artisanal pottery workshops -the largest hub of pottery in Portugal and one of the largest on the Iberian Peninsula.
For centuries, the clay deposits in São Pedro do Corval have been unique to this part of Alentejo, allowing generations of artisans to create traditional pieces that have become integral to the region's daily life. Today, potters continue to mold the clay by hand, spinning their wheels while sharing stories with visitors. Here you find extraordinary pieces as well as a rich assortment of styles.
The Wines of Reguengos de Monsaraz: A Taste of Tradition
Another highlight of any visit is exploring the wines of the region, particularly at the José de Sousa Winery. Founded in 1878, this winery is one of the oldest and most traditional in the Alentejo, known for its exceptional collection of large clay amphoras (talhas) still used today to produce an amphora wine as the Romans did. The winery offers a unique experience that combines history, wine, and Alentejo culture. After a guided tour, visitors can enjoy a wine tasting paired with excellent regional products, making for a truly memorable experience.
Exploring Alqueva: Nature and Adventure
Reguengos de Monsaraz offers boat rides on Alqueva, the largest artificial lake in Europe. We got to explore the calm waters, and even dive into the clean waters. A tour can be after lunch, or at sunset. And often offers snacks and wine.
Running with the Bulls: Nature and Adventure
The next day, try lunch at the famous Murteira Grave Ganadaria (cattle ranch). It was founded by Manuel Joaquim Grave (the grandfather of the current owner) in the 1930s. On the Galeana ranch, the wild Iberian bull can be appreciated in all its fullness and splendor. It was a short drive from the castle town of Mourão to the village of Granja, on the left bank of the Guadiana River; the ranch borders Spain.
The Galeana ranch opens its doors to wild animal tourism. Due to the beauty of its natural landscape of the montados and the setting of the brave bull in its natural habitat, it offers unique insight into culture and history. Visitors are transported in specially prepared trucks with complete safety to visit the ranch. In addition to the herds of cows with breeding bulls, visitors can see the bulls up close, making for an exciting interaction. What follows is a lunch in a former barn, decorated with historic posters and photographs.
Beyond its crafts and wines, Reguengos de Monsaraz offers a journey back in time with the historic medieval village of Monsaraz and its significant archaeological sites, particularly megalithic monuments of European importance. The area's strong identity, rooted in traditional customs, is reflected in its cuisine, crafts, and community spirit, making it a vibrant hub of culture, history, and natural beauty. Just about the perfect escape.
