Life in the Alentejo is enchanting, due to the charm of the rustic Portuguese countryside. The rolling plains as far as the eye can see, dotted with olive groves and vineyards that adorn the hills. Life here exudes a serene calm, far from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas.
What makes life here so pleasant?
The Alentejo is known for its quiet and contemplative way of life. The locals, who are known for their hospitality, often take the time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. These include tasting the delicious local cuisine, leisurely walks through the countryside and the rich cultural heritage of the region. Especially in the hot summer months, the pace of life is slower and people take the opportunity to have lunch in the cool shade.
The Alentejo is the largest province in Portugal and covers almost 1/3 of the country, from the south bank of the Tagus River to the Algarve. It is a sparsely populated area; Only 7% of the Portuguese population lives there.
The attractiveness of the region lies in the authentic character and infinite immensity of the hilly interior, with the occasional quaint white village or a lively larger city such as Évora or Beja. The main tourist attraction is the Atlantic coast, with huge sandy beaches, rugged cliffs and wild surf.
The backdrop of the countryside is dotted with olive groves, vineyards and cork oaks. This creates a photogenic horizon. The natural beauty of the area offers many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and photography. And all this in clean air, without pollution of industry. This makes the region a suitable destination to enjoy peace, space, untouched nature and a breathtaking starry sky at night.
Cost of living
Compared to more urban areas in Portugal, the cost of living in the Alentejo can be much lower. Eating out costs about the same as everyday groceries, and council taxes are low. Together with the quality of life in the area, it appeals to those looking for a quieter and more relaxed lifestyle. The real estate market also remains very attractive, as Alentejo is one of the regions with the lowest property prices in Portugal. Divine Home has its own office in Mértola, Alentejo, and has extensive knowledge of the real estate market. Are you curious if this region is ideal for you? We're here to help.
In the small towns and villages of the Alentejo, there are often close-knit communities where everyone knows each other. This fosters a strong sense of community and support. Unlike some tourist areas in the Algarve, there is no emptying of villages and towns in winter. In the Alentejo region, various festivals and traditions are celebrated throughout the year. From lively music festivals to traditional markets and religious celebrations, residents have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and connect with the community.
If you're looking for a place where people take the time to build relationships and connections, the Alentejo could be perfect.
The Alentejo is rich in history, with charming towns and villages that have a mix of Moorish, Roman and medieval influences. An example of this is Évora, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a well-preserved Roman temple and medieval cathedral. Near Évora there is a magic circle of monoliths larger than that of Stonehenge in England. Living in the Alentejo means being surrounded by history at every corner of the street.
Living in the Alentejo region offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and a quieter pace of life. Whether you're drawn to the historic architecture, the delicious cuisine, or the warmth of the local community, the Alentejo offers a distinctive and rewarding lifestyle.
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