Alentejo Tides & Trails
- 5 days, 4 nights
- Limited Group
- Self-Drive Guided Expedition
- Lisboa – Évora – Albernoa – Cercal do Alentejo – Comporta – Lisboa
Adventure meets exclusivity
A carefully planned expedition through one of Portugal's most extraordinary landscapes.
An immersive tour of the best that Portugal has to offer, combining the charm of each region's genuine offer with the high standard of comfort and sophistication. A trip that combines tradition, history, refinement and adventure, always guided by the best gastronomic, oenological, cultural and recreational references in the region.
"For us, traveling is not just about visiting places. It is about forging connections, discovering stories, and returning with memories that linger long after the journey ends."
Ricardo Leal dos Santos — Founder of DRIVEXPLORE®
Program overview
The Expedition's Journey
A five-day program designed around discovery, flavors, and the pleasure of exploring extraordinary landscapes.
1
Day 1
First trails and flavors of Alentejo
The expedition begins in Lisbon with vehicle delivery, an initial briefing, and the first few kilometers towards the Alentejo region. Between off-road trails, changing landscapes, and less traveled roads, we discover the world of artisanal chocolate from bean to bar and traverse places steeped in history before arriving in Évora.
A UNESCO World Heritage city-museum, Évora welcomes visitors with cobblestone streets, iconic monuments, and centuries of history on every corner. Between the Roman Temple, the Cathedral, and the unique atmosphere of the historic center, there's time to absorb the Alentejo rhythm before ending the day with a wine and cheese tasting and a dinner designed to celebrate the start of the adventure.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Lunch and dinner included
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
2
Day 2
Vineyards, tradition and the heart of Alqueva
After visiting the iconic Chapel of Bones, we immersed ourselves in the authentic Alentejo experience with tastings of olive oil and regional products, then followed off-road trails through vineyards and wooded areas.
Throughout the day we explored megalithic monuments, discovered artisanal traditions, and entered the world of the emblematic Alentejo blankets, learning firsthand about the processes, techniques, and knowledge that keep alive one of the region's most authentic expressions. Among medieval walls, historic streets, and endless landscapes, we ended the day with regional flavors and moments of conviviality.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
3
Day 3
Culture, local producers and endless landscapes
The day begins with an encounter with local traditions—a regional cultural experience centered on pottery and knowledge passed down through generations. Along the Alqueva trails, we traverse landscapes stretching across vast horizons and off-road paths that reveal the most authentic essence of the Alentejo.
Throughout the day, gastronomy and local producers take center stage—notably with a visit to an artisanal cheese maker—before arrival at the hotel. The day concludes with a carefully curated wine experience, bringing together wines, premium local products, and dinner in a celebration of the region and its people.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
4
Day 4
Alentejo traditions and arrival on the coast
Heading towards Aljustrel, we follow off-road trails that traverse rural landscapes, small towns, and places steeped in history.
In the afternoon, we head toward the striking Alentejo coast, making a gradual transition from the interior to the seaside. Our arrival at the hotel marks the end of the stage and culminates in a farewell dinner, celebrating the journey, the flavors of the Alentejo, and the moments shared throughout the expedition.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
5
Day 5
Between the mountains, the sea, and the return journey
On the last day, we explored off-road trails near the coast, passing by scenic overlooks with panoramic views of the vast ocean and some of the region's most beautiful roads.
After lunch, we set off for Setúbal, traversing the iconic Serra da Arrábida—guardian of beaches with turquoise waters.
Arrival at the Hyatt Regency in Lisbon marks the end of the expedition, with the handover of the vehicles, concluding five days of discovery and unforgettable experiences.
Duration of Activities
From morning to afternoon
Meals
Breakfast and lunch included
Routes and operational details are adapted based on weather, logistics, the group's profile, supplier availability, and local conditions.
Expedition overview
At a Glance
| ELEMENT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
|
Expedition |
Alentejo Tides & Trails |
|
Duration |
5 Days – 4 Nights |
|
Location |
Alentejo, Portugal — including regional exploration guided by the best gastronomic, wine, cultural and recreational offerings of the region |
|
Format |
Autonomous guided off-road trip in premium off-road vehicles |
|
Group base |
Minimum of 2 participants and one 4x4 vehicle on a self-drive basis, accompanied by a lead vehicle |
|
Difficulty |
Average — approximately 75 km daily on unpaved roads + 70 km on paved roads |
|
Support |
Professional DRIVEXPLORE® guide and dedicated 4x4 support vehicle |
|
Pillars of Experience |
Adventure · Culture · Gastronomy · Wine · Nature · High-End Hospitality |
Off-Road Driving
Food & wine
Nature
Local Culture
Premium Stays
Highlights of the Experience
Our Experiences
Every moment of the expedition was designed to connect you with the authentic character of Alentejo — through driving,
of gastronomy, culture and landscape.
Scenic Discovery "Off Road"
Drive state-of-the-art off-road vehicles through carefully selected environments that reveal the character of southern Portugal. The experience is adventurous, yet fully guided and assisted.
Gastronomy and Wines
The program celebrates the region's gastronomic and wine culture through carefully selected meals, tastings, and regional references—reserved for after all driving activities are completed.
Culture, Heritage and Authenticity
Access cultural and heritage references, traditional villages, monuments, local stories and regional crafts. The focus is on understanding the identity and atmosphere of each region.
Selected Stays
Accommodation options are selected to reflect the character and culture of the region — boutique hotels, historic properties, charming rural hotels, and wine tourism projects.
Package Details
What's included
Included
- 4-night stay in selected hotels
- Pre and post-expedition programs with preferential rates through our partner network
- Expedition vehicles, fuel, and tools
- Professional guide and operational team
- Scheduled meals featuring regional cuisine
- Non-alcoholic beverages with meals
- Cultural and gastronomic activities
- Entrance fees for monuments and guided tours
- Water, snacks, and Wi-Fi during the trip*
- Liability and personal accident insurance
Not Included
- International airfare and transfers
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
- Upgrades, spa treatments and additional services
- Private chauffeur service (available upon request and prior quotation)
Note
Additional rooms are available upon request and subject to an additional charge.
* Internet connectivity may be limited in certain more remote areas.
Fleet
Next-Generation Vehicles
DRIVEXPLORE® operates a fleet of over 30 premium off-road vehicles, prepared for off-road driving and equipped for maximum comfort.
Participation
Participation Requirements
Designed for active travelers who value adventure, authenticity, and premium experiences.
| Requisitos | DETAILS |
|---|---|
|
Eligibility to Drive |
Drivers must have a valid and legally recognized driver's license in Portugal, with at least 5 years of driving experience. DRIVEXPLORE® may refuse vehicle authorization if safety concerns arise. |
|
Physical Conditioning |
A normal level of physical fitness is recommended for active travel. Participants should be comfortable with road trips, light walking, exposure to inclement weather, and itinerary flow. |
|
Clothing and Equipment |
It is recommended to bring comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, waterproof gear, personal medication, and compact luggage. |
|
Baggage |
One checked bag weighing up to 23 kg, one carry-on bag, and one backpack per participant. |
|
Responsibility for Health |
Customers must report any medical conditions that may affect participation and complete the mandatory Health and Fitness Form. |
|
Travel Insurance |
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory, covering trip cancellation, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, civil liability, and repatriation. |
|
Meteorology |
Certain activities are subject to weather conditions and may be adjusted for safety, comfort, or logistical reasons. |
|
Children |
Children aged 8 and older are permitted. |
|
Driving |
Participants must comply with local laws, safety instructions, and guide's instructions throughout the expedition. |
General Conditions
General Conditions
The following conditions apply to all DRIVEXPLORE® shipments and form part of the commercial agreement.
| Condition | Detail |
|---|---|
|
Itinerary flexibility |
The itinerary order may be adjusted due to logistical issues, traffic, or adverse weather conditions. |
|
Supplier Flexibility |
Hotel and restaurant options may vary depending on partner availability; a high level of excellence is guaranteed in all regions. |
|
Support Team |
All expeditions are led by a professional DRIVEXPLORE® guide in a dedicated 4×4 support vehicle. |
|
Private driver |
Private driver services can be arranged upon request and prior quotation. |
|
Alcohol and Driving |
Alcohol consumption is permitted only after driving has ended. Zero tolerance policy for drunk driving. |
|
Daily Kit |
A daily kit containing water and snacks is provided for each vehicle. |