The best gravel rides around Fortios

The Castelo de Portalegre is an important medieval fortress located at the highest point of the historic center of Portalegre, in the Alentejo region of Portugal. Originally built in the second half of the 13th century during the reign of Dom Afonso III and later rebuilt and expanded by King D. Dinis around 1290, the castle played a fundamental strategic role for centuries in the defense of the border with Castile

Marvão Castle and its fortified town are located on top of a rocky spur in the Serra de São Mamede (Serra do Sapoio), in the Alto Alentejo region of Portugal, at an altitude of about 843 meters. Nicknamed the "Eagle's Nest", the town offers a panoramic view as far as the eye can see, stretching to neighboring Spain

Located at the highest point of the historic center of Portalegre, enjoying strategic views over the city and the surrounding landscape, which so well characterizes the Alto-Alentejo region. Medieval castle, built during the reign of D. Dinis, around 1290. In this fortification, related to the defense of the Alto-Alentejo border, the Keep (Torre de Menagem) stands out, with interior floors covered by vaults and a regular quadrangular plan, well integrated into the characteristic wall of military Gothic architecture. There are still three towers, out of the twelve it initially had, one of which is the North Tower (Torre Norte) which, due to its height, currently constitutes the true scenic symbol of the city's medieval past. The castle has already undergone restoration work, and has also been intervened to house a museum inside, the Keep Museum Nucleus (Núcleo Museológico da Torre de Menagem), which is currently in operation.

Castelo de Vide is a charming Portuguese medieval village located in the district of Portalegre, in the Alentejo region, perched on the hills of the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. Nicknamed the "Sintra of Alentejo" for its flowery alleys and lush landscapes, this town is famous for its healing thermal waters, its intact Gothic architecture, and one of the most important historical Jewish communities in the country.

For those planning to hike in the Alegrete area, the main reference route is the PR3 PTG – Percurso de Alegrete. This circular route offers a complete immersion in the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, combining the medieval heritage of the village with montado landscapes and water lines. The Main Route (PR3 PTG) The PR3 PTG - Percurso de Alegrete is about 11.4 km long and is classified as medium/low difficulty. The recommended starting and ending point is near Fonte Nova, although many hikers start their journey in the village of Alegrete itself to explore the historic center right away. Castle and Village: The Castle of Alegrete is the (literal) highlight of the hike. Situated at about 500 meters above sea level, it offers a panoramic view of the Alentejo border region. Don't miss the Clock Tower (Torre do Relógio). Nature and Biodiversity: The trail crosses areas of cork oak montado, pine forests, and riparian areas. It is an excellent place for bird watching (such as the robin or the titmouse) and, near the water lines, you can find rare vegetation like the royal fern. Religious Heritage: During your passage through the village, you can also visit the small Chapel of Mercy (Capela da Misericórdia), which is part of the local historical complex. Practical Hiking Tips Time of Year: Avoid the months of July and August due to the extreme temperatures in the Alentejo. Autumn and spring are ideal for the colors of the vegetation and mild temperatures. In winter, be careful with the ground, which can become quite slippery on cobblestones and rocky trails. Equipment: Use footwear with good grip (the ascents and descents to the castle and river have sections of loose stones). Bring enough water, as outside the village, refueling points are scarce. Safety and Respect: Always follow the official signage (yellow and red marks).

Far in the northeast of Alentejo lies Castelo de Vide, just a few kilometers from the border with Spain. The town is often called Cidade branca (white city), which is primarily due to the pretty whitewashed houses of the town. The highlight of the town (besides its great location in the Parque Natural da Serra de São Mamede) is the 14th-century Castelo de São Roque. From the castle, you have a fantastic view of the old town. Other sights in Castelo de Vide include the old Jewish quarter with the oldest synagogue in Portugal and the numerous churches and chapels of the town.

Imposing building in which the Centro de Dia senior center is located

Beirã is a small, quiet town surrounded by rolling countryside, with cork oak forests, olive groves and a rural, peaceful atmosphere typical of the Alto Alentejo. This village is often associated with its historic train station, once an important hub on the line between Lisbon and Madrid, which still retains some of its old-world charm. Beirã is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding nature and the area's rich historical sites, such as the nearby, well-preserved medieval village of Marvão, perched on a hill, or the Roman city of Ammaia.