Located in the tranquil countryside of Alentejo, the monastery was originally built in 1182 by King Sancho I, the second king of Portugal. The Convento holds a deep historical and spiritual significance, and has served both as a monastery and an exclusive retreat for Portuguese royalty. A standout feature of the Convento is its remarkable collection of over 54,000 blue and white Portuguese tiles, thought to be the largest private collection in the country. Following the 1834 ban on religious orders, the convent was eventually acquired by Henriqueta Leotte Tavares. It has been lovingly maintained by her family and transformed into a hotel to preserve this iconic property and share its incredible story. Our wedding guests will have the chance to explore Convento de São Paulo October 1st and 2nd in complete exclusivity: - Explore the convento as a living museum - Hiking trails through the Serra d’Ossa (6, 12, or 20 Km) - 5 courts for tennis or pickleball - 2 swimming pools
Estremoz, known as the "White City" for its striking whitewashed buildings and gleaming marble façades, is a captivating destination that blends history, elegance, and natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Alentejo region, this picturesque city offers a unique glimpse into Portugal’s rich royal heritage, architectural charm, and serene landscapes, making it a must-visit for those looking to explore the essence of the country’s past and present. The Alentejo region’s culinary delights are a highlight of Estremoz. The rich, full-bodied wines produced in the surrounding vineyards perfectly complement local specialties such as porco preto (black pork) and açorda (bread soup), offering a truly authentic taste of the region. Dining here feels like a celebration of Portugal’s finest flavors, making every meal an unforgettable experience.
The vineyards of Alentejo, located in southern Portugal, are renowned for their rich, full-bodied wines and scenic landscapes. This expansive region is one of Portugal’s largest wine-producing areas, with a history of winemaking that dates back to Roman times. The region is famous for its red wines, particularly those made from Alicante Bouschet, Trincadeira, and Aragonês (known internationally as Tempranillo). These wines are known for their deep color, bold flavors, and smooth tannins. Alentejo also produces excellent white wines, made from local varieties like Antão Vaz, Arinto, and Roupá. Below are wineries & vineyards within a short drive from Convento São Paulo and the city of Estremoz: - Tiago Cabaço - Joao Portugal Ramos - Quinta do Carmo - Herdade das Servas - Quinta Dona Maria - Aliestre Vineyards - Quinta da Esperança
Corktrekking in Portugal offers a unique and immersive experience into one of the country's most iconic industries: cork production. Portugal is the world’s largest producer of cork, and a safari through cork forests, known as montados, provides a fascinating insight into this sustainable and centuries-old practice.