ALENTEJO AROUND GANDUM
The location of Gandum Village allows you to explore some of the most interesting places in Alentejo without having to travel far. In less than an hour, you can go from medieval villages to historic towns, from riverside landscapes to hills with endless views.
Here are some suggestions for exploring the area around Gandum at your own pace.
Évora
35 minutes from Gandum Village
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Évora concentrates centuries of history within walking distance. The Roman Temple, the Cathedral, and the Church of São Francisco with its Chapel of Bones are the best-known sights, but the city reveals itself above all in its entirety: narrow streets, discreet squares, cafés, and bookstores that maintain an active local life.
It is a city to visit at a leisurely pace, ideal for combining heritage, temporary exhibitions, restaurants, and a long break on a terrace. It works well for both a short morning and a full day.
Alcácer do Sal
45 minutes from Gandum Village
Located on the banks of the River Sado, Alcácer do Sal is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with occupation dating back to Neolithic times. Throughout history, it was a strategic point during the Roman period and Muslim rule, which is reflected in its heritage and urban layout.
Alcácer do Sal Castle, at the top of the hill, offers sweeping views over the river and the surrounding landscape. It is also worth exploring the town's streets, the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo, and the Municipal Museum of Archaeology.
Nearby, you will find the village of Santa Susana and, a little further on, the beaches of Comporta, ideal for extending your trip to the sea.
Arraiolos
24 minutes from Gandum Village
Arraiolos is internationally renowned for its hand-embroidered rugs, a craft tradition with centuries of history. The village retains the typical scale and pace of the Alentejo, with white houses, quiet streets, and a strong local identity.
Arraiolos Castle, with its circular layout and located at the top of the hill, is one of the few castles of this type in Portugal. The Convento dos Lóios and the open landscapes around it complete the visit. It is an ideal destination for a quiet morning or afternoon, surrounded by heritage, crafts, and beautiful scenery.
Estremoz
54 minutes from Gandum Village
Estremoz is renowned for its white marble, used in monuments around the world and deeply linked to the city's identity. The historic center is dominated by the medieval castle, where you will find the keep and the inn housed in the former Royal Palace.
The cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and lively squares reflect a vibrant city with a strong local presence. The weekly market, the Municipal Museum, and the region's food and wine offerings make Estremoz an excellent choice for a full day out.
Monsaraz
1 hour and 20 minutes from Gandum Village
Monsaraz is one of Portugal's most iconic medieval villages. Perched atop a hill, it is surrounded by walls and offers breathtaking views over Lake Alqueva and the Alentejo plains.
The cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and timeless atmosphere invite you to take a leisurely stroll. The castle, the main church, and the viewpoints are must-see stops, especially in the late afternoon, when the light transforms the landscape. It is a more distant destination, but one that rewards you with its uniqueness and beauty.
Plow
20 minutes from Gandum Village
Lavre is a village in Alentejo with no tourist pretensions, but with a very distinct identity. Here you will find one of the most authentic expressions of rural daily life in the region, among agricultural fields, oak forests, and small streets where time seems to slow down. It is also a good starting point for walking trails and for discovering local restaurants and producers off the beaten track.
Cabrela
25 minutes from Gandum Village
Located in a well-preserved cork oak forest, Cabrela is a village linked to cork, agriculture, and a deeply Alentejo way of life. The natural surroundings invite you to go hiking and enjoy peaceful walks, far from traffic and noise. It is a discreet destination, ideal for those seeking scenery, silence, and direct contact with the land.
Santiago do Escoural
18 minutes from Gandum Village
Santiago do Escoural combines historical heritage with archaeological significance. The Escoural Cave is one of the most important prehistoric sites in Portugal, with cave paintings and human remains dating back more than 50,000 years. The village itself remains small and has strong links to the surrounding countryside, making it an interesting stop for those who enjoy deep history and natural landscapes.
White House
30 minutes from Gandum Village
Historically known as a railway junction, Casa Branca has been gaining new life through cultural and community projects. The Cooperative Station is an example of this, bringing together artistic residencies, events, and initiatives linked to the social and cultural regeneration of the territory. It is a good example of how contemporary Alentejo is reinventing itself outside the larger cities.
Alvito
40 minutes from Gandum Village
Alvito is a small village, marked by its castle and peaceful surroundings. The agricultural landscape, quiet streets, and absence of mass tourism make it a simple and pleasant destination for a short visit. It works well as a stopover on a longer trip through the Lower Alentejo.
Viana do Alentejo
45 minutes from Gandum Village
Known for the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora d'Aires, Viana do Alentejo combines religious heritage, popular tradition, and active local life. The walls surrounding the sanctuary create a unique space, unlike other towns in the region. It is also a link between Évora and the deepest interior of the Alentejo.
Explore the Alentejo from Gandum
Staying at Gandum Village means having the privilege of being close to everything, without being in the middle of nowhere. These destinations allow you to combine relaxation in the countryside with cultural, historical, and scenic discoveries—always with time to return to the silence of Gandum at the end of the day.