When we visit a country, we want to discover those special places, but without so many tourists, who often end up interfering with the landscape and changing the original characteristics of the places. This is because shops and restaurants open and there are many more people around than would be normal if it weren't for the visitors.
For those who want to visit more authentic places without much tourist influence (but with the infrastructure to welcome visitors), I recommend three places in Portugal that are true gems, almost paradises, that you can't miss. Because they are further away from the big cities, these towns and villages still preserve their original characteristics and are not part of the mass tourism itineraries.
Marvao
Located almost on the border with Spain, Marvão is a city within the walls of a castle, on top of a mountain and is full of history and with stunning views of the beautiful Alentejo region, where it is located.
The small town, just over 230 km from the capital, was built during the Moorish era, as can be seen in the architecture with its typical whitewashed Alentejo houses. You can walk around the whole town in just a few hours and there is a lot to see. It is definitely worth taking in the beauty of Marvão.
Monsanto
Also on the border with Spain, but further north, is what is considered by tourism and heritage experts to be the most Portuguese village in Portugal, built between large blocks of stone and in perfect harmony with the environment that surrounds it.
In addition to the impressive houses that were built next to huge stones (and therefore not at all symmetrical), the village of Monsanto is a surprise for those who visit it. Full of nooks and crannies, the tip is to walk through its narrow streets and discover a new world, even though it may seem like you are in the Middle Ages. Monsanto is just over 270 km from Lisbon.
Monsaraz
The closest of the three towns I mention in this text to the capital, Monsaraz is just over 180 km from Lisbon. Situated on top of a mountain, also close to Spain, which we can even see from the top of the town, it is on the shores of the largest artificial lake in Europe, Alqueva.
This small Alentejo village also has whitewashed houses and slate streets that leave everyone speechless at their beauty. The best tip here is to get lost in the alleys and streets, walk along the walls and watch the sunset over the Alentejo plains.
It's hard to choose which one is the most beautiful. So, get to know all three. It's really worth it. And we at Portugal Afora we can take you there.
*In the cover photo, the largest artificial lake in Europe, Alqueva, seen from Monsaraz.