São Lourenço do Barrocal

Monsaraz


Set on a 780-hectare estate of olive groves and vineyards, 7km west of Monsaraz, this rural tourism stay offers countryside charm that doesn’t stint on high-end comforts. What was once a self-contained farming village has been transformed into lovely boutique accommodation, and the excellent restaurant uses many products grown or raised on-site.

You can arrange loads of activities, including horse riding, biking excursions, picnics, walks in the countryside and wine tasting. There’s also a spa, an appealing bar and plenty of options for children. The estate is located off the M514.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Monsaraz attractions

1. Casa da Inquisação

1.93 MILES

Near the castle, this small two-storey museum touches on the Jewish presence in Monsaraz during the Middle Ages and the persecutions that unfolded after…

2. Castelo

1.94 MILES

The weather-beaten castle at the southwestern end of the village was one in the chain of Dom Dinis’ defensive fortresses along the Spanish border. It’s…

3. Igreja da Misericórdia

1.97 MILES

Opposite the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Lagoa, this 16th-century church was once part of the Hospital do Espírito Santo complex.

4. Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Lagoa

1.99 MILES

The parish church, near the turismo, was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake and again a century later. Inside is an impressive nave and a 14th-century…

5. Museu do Fresco

1.99 MILES

Housed inside a fine Gothic building beside the parish church, this museum includes a rare example of a 14th-century secular fresco. The striking work…

6. Menhir do Outeiro

2.25 MILES

Situated 6km north of Monsaraz is the granite, 5.6m-tall Menhir do Outeiro, one of the tallest megalithic monuments ever discovered.

7. Observatório do Lago Alqueva

2.69 MILES

Offers two-hour open-air sessions taking in the marvellous star-filled skies of the Alentejo. You'll get an overview of constellations visible with the…

8. Praia Fluvial de Monsaraz

3.67 MILES

When you need a break from the heat, head down to this beach on the edge of Alqueva Lake. You can go for a swim (there are lifeguards in summer), hire…