Evora in 1 Day for Couples - Walk the ancient olive grove at Herdade da Fonte Santa
In Collaboration with Mainova. Updated on January 31, 2026.
A relaxed, romantic 1-day plan centered on Mainova's Herdade da Fonte Santa: an easy walk through an ancient olive grove, an expert winery tour and tasting (1 vat wine + 6 wines), a tasting of 6 extra virgin olive oils and a regional product board, then an evening in historic Évora with cathedral views and a memorable dinner.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Mainova, inspired by the tour Tour and Superior Wine and Olive Oil Tasting. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Walk the ancient olive grove at Herdade da Fonte Santa
- Guided winery tasting: 1 vat sample + 6 wines
- Tasting of 6 extra virgin olive oils
- Regional Mainova board (cheeses, sausages, bread, jams)
- Sunset/after-dinner terrace drink and romantic stroll in Évora
Itinerary
Day 1
Afternoon visit to Herdade da Fonte Santa for olive grove + winery tour and tasting, followed by an evening in Évora — cathedral visit, a classic Alentejo dinner and a rooftop/terrace drink.
Arrival & welcome at Herdade da Fonte Santa (meet on location)
Arrive a little early to check in and enjoy the estate grounds before the tour. Meet the Mainova team at the tasting room/visitor entrance.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your reservation and preferred language in advance (staff often speak English & Portuguese).
- There is usually easy parking on-site — ask staff for the best spot for photos.
- Bring a light layer: estate breezes can be cool in late afternoon even in May.
Guided walk in the Ancient Olive Grove
A gentle, scenic stroll among centuries-old olive trees while your guide explains traditional cultivation and the estate’s history — perfect for photos and quiet moments together.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes for uneven farm paths; the walk is easy but natural terrain can be uneven.
- Ask your guide for a recommended photo spot — the oldest trees make excellent backdrops at golden hour.
- If either of you has mobility concerns, request a short-route alternative when you check in.
Winery tour & structured tastings (1 vat sample + 6 wines)
Guided visit of the winery production area followed by a seated tasting: a vinification vat sample plus a flight of six wines chosen by the sommelier — learn tasting notes, pairing suggestions, and vineyard story.
Tips from local experts:
- Tell your host you prefer a quieter table for an intimate tasting experience; small groups can often be accommodated.
- Ask which single wine on the flight is best for a toast — the sommelier will often suggest the most aromatic or romantic pick.
- If you prefer to take a bottle home, arrange shipping or purchase at the estate shop before leaving.
Olive oil tasting (6 extra virgin olive oils) & Mainova regional board
Seated tasting of six extra virgin olive oils paired with a Mainova board featuring local cheeses, regional sausages, fresh bread and jams — a sensory experience pairing oil, wine and regional flavors.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the provided plain bread/cracker to cleanse the palate between oils and wines for clearer comparisons.
- Ask for a small take-home sample of any oil you love — estates sometimes sell small bottles even after tastings.
- Share bites and swap notes with your partner: tasting together makes a nice couple’s ritual and helps pick a favourite to buy.
Transfer back to Évora (by pre-booked car / taxi)
Short private or taxi transfer from the Herdade to Évora city centre — relax and enjoy views of the Alentejo countryside as you head back for an evening in town.
Tips from local experts:
- Pre-book a transfer with the estate or ask staff for a reliable local taxi number to avoid waits.
- Window seats are lovely — the drive showcases the Alentejo plains at their most peaceful in spring.
- If you bought bottles, pack them in the trunk or ask the driver to help store them safely for the return.
Sé de Évora (Évora Cathedral) — short visit & viewpoint
A gentle visit to the cathedral and its terrace viewpoint — climb a few steps or enjoy the exterior and cloister for panoramic views of the city and warm stone architecture.
Tips from local experts:
- The cathedral has steps; if you prefer fewer stairs, enjoy the cloister and exterior viewpoints instead.
- Late-afternoon light (May) beautifully illuminates the cathedral’s stone — perfect for romantic photos.
- Check opening hours in advance; many sites in Évora have limited hours outside high season.
Romantic dinner at Restaurante Fialho
Classic Alentejo cuisine in a refined, intimate setting — reserve a table for two and enjoy traditional dishes and a thoughtful wine list to continue your tasting journey.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table in advance and ask for a quiet corner table for two; Fialho is popular and fills up.
- Order a couple of shared starters and a meat or fish main to sample the signature Alentejo flavors.
- Pair your meal with a regional Alentejo red — staff can match a wine you tasted earlier at the estate.
Terrace cocktail or digestif at M'AR De AR Aqueduto Hotel (special moment)
End the evening with a rooftop/terrace cocktail or digestif — a quiet, elevated spot for a late-night toast and a final view of Évora’s lit monuments.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the hotel bar for a quieter corner or terrace seat — perfect for a private toast to cap the night.
- Request a regional liquor (e.g., medronho or local liqueur) as an evocative digestif after dinner.
- If the terrace is busy, a short walk to a nearby less-lit square provides a pleasantly intimate atmosphere.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Outdoor, Experience, Meal, Transfer, Culture, Restaurant, Nightlife |