Portugal Inland Paths, Self-drive

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~~$1503~~

$1431

Portugal Inland Paths, Self-drive

8 Days Starting and ending in Faro, Portugal

Visiting: Portugal

Tour operator:

Destination Services Portugal

Tour code:

447813

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

VERY_EASY

Age range:

23-

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat

Tour operated in:

English

From: $1503 $1431 Travel Club discount: -$71

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating self-drive adventure through the heart of Portugal with the "Portugal Inland Paths" tour. This journey takes you from the historic city of Faro to the picturesque Monchique, known for its thermal villa and Love Fountain. Explore the dramatic cliffs of Cabo São Vicente and the legendary fortress of Sagres. Discover the charming town of Grândola, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, and relax on the serene beaches of Comporta. Continue to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city, and delve into its artistic heritage. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, scenic drives, and leisurely relaxation, all while staying in comfortable accommodations and enjoying local culinary delights.

Highlights

Monchique: picturesque region that offers excellent hiking or cycling excursion or adventurous canoeing
Cabo São Vicent: marvelous landscape unspoiled coastlines and dramatic horizons of cliffs, covered by the myths and legends from the Discoveries Are and the enigmatic figure of Prince Henry the Navigator
Sagres: this fortress is a witness of the mysterious history and legends of maritime adventure founded by the 15th century by the Infante D. Henrique
Grândola: charming town, dazzled by its diverse mountainous and coastline surroundings
Évora: book of Portuguese art history, city written in the UNESCO World Heritage, perceiving the loving spirit of the local poets and art lovers
Alqueva Sky: the first certified place in the world by Starlight Foundation as a Starlight Tourism Destination, perfect for observing the sky and stars
Elvas: visit the largest bulwarked fortification in the world, significant during the battles of independence of Portugal in the mid-17th century

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival Faro – Monchique (80 Km – 1 H)

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central or similar 3*

Arrive at Faro International Airport, meet and greet by our local representative who will assist you with your car hire and inform you how to proceed on your departure day. Make the most of your time in the Algarve. Drive to the capital of the Algarve – Faro (just 10 minutes from the airport) and explore this city with centuries of history, starting in the Moorish and medieval times. Stroll downs the narrow streets and whitewashed houses, walk inside the walls, perhaps have a drink at one of the cities iconic bars facing the beautiful sea view or taste shellfish at one of the local restaurant. Afterwards, drive to Monchique, check-in to your hotel and the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing at the thermal resort.

Overnight in Monchique.

Day 2 : Monchique – Cape St. Vicente – Monchique (180 Km – 2.5 Hrs)

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central or similar 3*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Have an early breakfast at the hotel and after, take a short walk along the Caldas de Monchique, to find Fonte dos Amores – the Love Fountain. Today, you will be heading towards the Edge of Portugal in the South, Sagres and Cape São Vicente. If you drive straight to Cape São Vicent, besides the magnificent view over the Atlantic Ocean you will see Sagres, the fortress that witnesses all the legends of maritime adventure during the Moorish pirates’ attacks. Later on visit the Village of Pedralva and experience the rural life in the Algarve. Perhaps stop at the Gourmet Grocery or enjoy lunch at the local restaurant. On the way back, drive along the coast, pass through Lagos, and finish this day with the romantic sunset at Ponta da Piedade.

Overnight in Monchique.

Day 3 : Monchique – Foia – Grandola (180Km – 2H30m)

Accommodation Name: Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After your leisure breakfast at the hotel, check-out and follow your drive to Grandola. En-route visit the village of Monchique, starting point for a hike up to Foia Peak, the highest point in the Algarve. Continue driving to Aljezur, a small charming village that stretches along the coastline and admire breath-taking views over the ocean. Perhaps stop for a lunch at the local restaurant and try Perceves, typical speciality of this region. Passing Vila Nova de Mil Fontes, you will be arriving at the hotel that is settled in the beautiful Valley of Sobreiras. After the check-in, spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying all facilities of the hotel and admiring the charming rural atmosphere of its landscape. Dinner at the hotel (included).

Overnight in Grândola.

Day 4 : Grandola – Comporta – Grandola (120 Km – 2.45 Hrs)

Accommodation Name: Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and get ready for exploring Grândola. Walk along its archaeological sites and discover the monuments of Carnation Revolution, memorable for ending fascism in Portugal. Drive to Comporta beach, located on the south of Troia. Lay back and relax at the beach and continue to Cais Palafitico da Carrasqueira, a masterpiece of popular architecture. This port, built on irregular wooden piles and boards, is a popular photography destination. The wharf and its mooring lines are used by local fishing boats. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this rural place and return back to your hotel visiting picturesque villages, such as Melides and Santiago de Cacém and discover more about the Alentejo region and its unique rustic spirit. Dinner at the hotel (included).

Overnight in Grândola.

Day 5 : Grandola – Alqueva – Evora (197 Km – 2.45 Hrs)

Accommodation Name: The Noble House Hotel or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin your day with a breakfast at the hotel, check-out and get ready for your following destination, Évora, the city commonly known as the book of Portuguese art history. You will drive along the Great Lake resulting from the Alqueva Reservoir, the largest artificial lake in Europe, surrounded by an enviable natural landscape. Alqueva Sky is the first certified place in the world by Starlight Foundation as a Starlight Tourism Destination, the perfect place to observe sky and stars. Drive to Aldeia da Luz, village submerged by the dam waters, visit the Museum and explore deeper about its tragic history. Not far from Évora, there is a Reguengos de Monsaraz, well-known for its delicious wines. Once in Évora, check-in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Évora.

Day 6 : Evora – Elvas – Badajoz (Spain) – Evora (205 Km – 2.45 Hrs)

Accommodation Name: The Noble House Hotel or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Today you will extend your driving experience for Badajoz, located in Spain. En-route stop at the Evoramonte parish and admire simple white houses, traditionally painted with white lime and unique ornaments. Follow to Estremoz, simple provincial town, busy trading center, with lots of shops selling farm tools, earthenware pottery and gourmet delights – all of which are available at the great market that takes part at the huge central square on Saturday. The town also boasts some excellent eateries. In Elvas visit the largest bulwarked fortification in the world that had major importance during the battles of independence of Portugal in the mid-17th century, and served as a base for General Wellington during the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century. Afterwards you will be crossing the border with Spain and you will arrive at Badajoz. Badajoz has a handful of good museums and a hilltop Alcazaba. Return to Évora and spend the rest of the afternoon walking down its romantic streets, perhaps taste the local gastronomy at one of the restaurants.

Overnight in Évora.

Day 7 : Évora – Monchique (210 Km – 2.45 Hrs)

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central or similar 3*

Meals Included: Breakfast

After the breakfast at the hotel, check-out and head to Évora. The name came from the Celtic word, Ebora and nowadays it is one of the most romantic cities of Portugal, classified in the UNESCO World Heritage. Templo de Diana (Diana Temple), Catedral da Sé, Capela dos Ossos, are just a few sites to visit, on which you will learn why this city was chosen by the Portuguese kings as their residence. Delicious local gastronomy cannot be ignored, as its Migas com Carne, leftover bread, soaked in water, garlic, spices and combined with braised pork, is a luscious experience for the foodie lovers. Big farewell to Évora because in the afternoon you will drive back to Monchique in Algarve.

Overnight in Monchique.

Day 8 : Monchique – Departure Faro (80 Km – 1 H)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend your last morning in Portugal savouring your breakfast. After check-out from your hotel and drive back to Faro Airport where you will return the rental car and prepare for your return flight.

What's Included

ACCOMMODATION:

7 night’s hotel accommodation

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Monchique:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Central or similar 3*

Day 3-4 Grândola:

Standard Hotel Category = Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel or similar 4*

Day 5-6 Évora:

Standard Hotel Category = The Noble House Hotel or similar 4*

Day 7 Monchique:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Central or similar 3*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS:

Car Group C = VW Polo or similar

MEALS:

7 Breakfasts
2 Dinners (Day 3 and 4)
Optional extra: Half Board supplement: additional 5 Dinners (day 1, 2 and 5 to 7)

CAR HIRE:

Unlimited mileage
SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver)
TP (theft protection)
Road assistance 24/7
Replacement vehicle in a case of accident or breakdown
Safety equipment (first aid kit, triangle, high visibility vest, fire extinguisher)
Road map
Airport fees
Tax

OTHER:

Meet & Greet

What's Not Included

Tour Guide

Tour guide services are not included.
Visa Fees

Visa fees are not included.
Flights

Domestic and international flights are not included.
Drinks

Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.
Optional Tours

Optional tours, if any, are not included.
City Tax

City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.
Entrance Fees and Activities

Any entrance fees and activities are not included.
Porterage and Gratuities

Porterage and gratuities are not included.
Personal Expenditures

Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.
Travel Insurance

Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.

, are not included.
Car Hire Exclusions

GPS, baby seat/booster, damage handling fee, fuel, tolls, young driver supplement, and additional charges that may occur due to missing fuel (refuelling charge), extremely dirty vehicle, lost car documents, registration plates or keys, empty car battery (requiring towing service) are not included.

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Portugal. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.

Please Note

Please note that CDW doesn’t cover: Tyre, undercarriage, interior & glass damages, Malfunctions and damages caused by wrong fuel, reckless driving, Damages caused by driving under influence of alcohol, drugs or passing through red light, Damages caused by an unauthorized driver
Driver Requirements: Minimum age of the driver: 23 years, valid driver’s license and passport or ID and possession of the driver’s license at least 2 years. Car Insurance, to be paid directly on the spot.
Credit card accepted (VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS or DINERS)
Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Monchique:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Central or similar 3*

Day 3-4 Grândola:

Standard Hotel Category = Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel or similar 4*

Day 5-6 Évora:

Standard Hotel Category = The Noble House Hotel or similar 4*

Day 7 Monchique:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Central or similar 3*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS:

Car Group Y = Renault Clio or similar

Mode of Transport

Travel conveniently with a self-drive car hire, featuring a Renault Clio or similar, including unlimited mileage, SCDW, TP, 24/7 road assistance, and essential safety equipment.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable hotel accommodation, including stays at Hotel Central in Monchique, Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel in Grândola, and The Noble House Hotel in Évora, with options ranging from 3 to 4 stars.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Monchique:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Central or similar 3*

Day 3-4 Grândola:

Standard Hotel Category = Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel or similar 4*

Day 5-6 Évora:

Standard Hotel Category = The Noble House Hotel or similar 4*

Day 7 Monchique:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Central or similar 3*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS:

Car Group C = VW Polo or similar

Check out our Q&As

What kind of activities can I do in Monchique?

In Monchique, you can enjoy hiking or cycling excursions, adventurous canoeing, and relaxing at the thermal resort. You can also visit the Love Fountain and explore the picturesque region.
What is special about Cabo São Vicente?

Cabo São Vicente offers marvelous landscapes with unspoiled coastlines and dramatic horizons of cliffs. It is covered by myths and legends from the Discoveries Era and is associated with the enigmatic figure of Prince Henry the Navigator.
What can I expect to see in Sagres?

In Sagres, you can visit the fortress that is a witness to the mysterious history and legends of maritime adventure. The area was founded in the 15th century by Infante D. Henrique.
What are some highlights of Grândola?

Grândola is a charming town surrounded by diverse mountainous and coastline areas. It is home to different architectural sites and memorable monuments of the Carnation Revolution.
What makes Évora a significant destination?

Évora is known as the book of Portuguese art history and is a UNESCO World Heritage city. It has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its loving spirit, local poets, and art lovers.

What kind of car will I be driving during the tour?

You will be driving a car from Car Group Y, such as a Renault Clio or a similar vehicle.
What meals are included in the tour package?

The tour package includes 7 breakfasts and 2 dinners (on Day 3 and 4). There is also an optional extra for a Half Board supplement, which includes an additional 5 dinners (on days 1, 2, and 5 to 7).
What is included in the car hire?

The car hire includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), theft protection (TP), 24/7 road assistance, a replacement vehicle in case of accident or breakdown, safety equipment (first aid kit, triangle, high visibility vest, fire extinguisher), a road map, airport fees, and tax.
What is not included in the car hire?

The car hire does not include GPS, baby seat/booster, damage handling fee, fuel, tolls, young driver supplement, and additional charges that may occur due to missing fuel (refuelling charge), extremely dirty vehicle, lost car documents, registration plates or keys, and empty car battery (requiring towing service).
What should I wear when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings in Portugal?

Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings in Portugal.
What are the driver requirements for the car hire?

The minimum age of the driver is 23 years. The driver must have a valid driver’s license and passport or ID, and must have possessed the driver’s license for at least 2 years. Car insurance must be paid directly on the spot.
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
Do you offer any travel insurance?

We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
What documents will I receive before I travel?

Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
Are Visa fees included in the price?

No, visa fees are not included
Are flights included in the tour?

No, they are not included
What does the price include?

What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
Is there any option for solo traveller?

Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

Reviews of this operator

Portugal Discovery, Self-drive

04-Nov-2022

Great itinerary. Hotels were quite nice with breakfast included. Highways in Portugal may be the best in the world.

Mary Ann

South of Portugal

17-Sep-2022

This tour was so much more than I expected. The hotels were great especially the Villa Gale in Lagos. We had busy days and saw so much. There were only a few of us on my tour so Fernando, our driver, and Miguel, our guide, were flexible about doing independent things plus the regular tour. They were always willing to help and very sociable. I found Portugal to be a hidden gem and would love to return to spend more time in some areas.

Diego

The Best of Portugal

14-Apr-2022

This tour has a lot of walking it’s well educated on the history of Portugal I had a wonderful driver his name was Fabio Gomes and I tour guide Cristina Evo she was wonderful she was very well educated and She knew a lot of information I really like to thank them both it was a great trip

Tony

Wondrs of Portugal

06-Jun-2022

A wonderful Tour Will definitely book again

Robert

Lisbon Cultural Experience, City Break, 6 Days

18-Aug-2022

Great communication from the Tourradar team. Everything worked out as planned / promised. Would use them again.

Leo B.

South of Portugal

17-Feb-2022

What an amazing experience! Surprises around every corner. We really learned about the culture, ate great meals and visited several hidden gems! Highly recommend!! Thank you to our awesome guide, Joao!

Jay C.

Portugal North and South, Self-drive

30-Oct-2022

It was a wonderful experience. The hotels are way above my expectations. Just one little thing not too important is that there is drop off fee at Faro airport. I totally recommend this tour to my friends.

Pauline

The Best of Portugal

15-Mar-2022

Our tour guide Kristina was fabulous. Our driver Fabio was excellent. Our initial trying to find our tour at Marquis de Pombal Square in Lisbon was very nerve wracking with anxiety as the name Tour Radar was nowhere to be seen. It was under the name Cityrama. Luckily Kristina found us wandering in the parking lot with rolling suitcases. Other than that everything went well and the breakfasts were great and hotels were very good.

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Dec 12, 2024 - Dec 19, 2024

~~$1503~~ $1431