Oh Dear Alentejo | Alcácer do Sal

The ALENTEJO covers a huge area, around a third of the country, stretching south from the Rio Tejo to the northern mountain ranges of the Algarve – the name derives from the words além do Tejo, beyond the Tejo River. This is Portugal’s garden, the bulk of the region given over to huge cork plantations, wheat fields and vineyards – and though much of it is flat, the region repays exploration, offering unexpected surprises, from ancient dolmens and superbly sited castles to Roman ruins and sweeping Atlantic beaches.

Much of the population make a living from the huge agricultural estates known as latifúndios, which are handed down from generation to generation – many have been in existence since Roman times. The vast farms are generally wildlife-friendly – the Alentejo is home to wild boar and hundreds of species of bird, from black stork to great bustard.

I woke up and there was a beautiful Spring day, hot like Summer and I didn't know where to go or do...go to the beach? maybe...ding, ding I started to remember that I always wanted to go to Alcácer do Sal, so why not today??? Weather was on point, closed to the beach and a very small village, a peace of mind escape, perfect to visit in a Sunday afternoon and so I did.

Coming from Lisbon and the west, ALCÁCER DO SAL is the first town of the Baixo Alentejo, 52km from Setúbal. It is one of Portugal’s oldest ports, founded by the Phoenicians and made a regional capital under the Moors – whence its name (al-Ksar, “the town”) derives. The other part of its name, do Sal, “of salt”, reflects the dominance of the salt industry in these parts; the Sado estuary is still fringed with salt marshes.

Few stop longer than to stretch the legs – both Beja and the Coast (where we can see the beautiful beaches) are less than an hour away – but it’s an attractive enough place to spend some time, particularly along the waterfront promenade where there are various cafés and restaurants.

A couple of roads back from the promenade, at its western end, lies a charming quarter of medieval houses where storks nest on any tall tower. Further up hill, above the town, stands the Moorish castle, now a luxury pousada, from where you can look out over the Rio Sado and the distinctive green paddy fields which are still cultivated for rice.

The view is stunning

The Pousada Castelo de Alcácer do Sal is set in the medieval moorish Castle of a town abounding in history with beautiful views.

Army dress by Sahoco (old) similar here / Booties / Quay Sunglasses

Downtown Alcácer do Sal is more than just historic buildings and beautiful houses where the town meets the river witch leads you to the beach, yes it's pretty close to the most amazing beach that you need to stay tuned in for a later post about it, you will love!!!

The sort of evening where you have to pinch yourself to check you’re not dreaming.