The Tagus River, a vital artery of Portugal, flows through a region rich in agricultural heritage. For centuries, this lush landscape has nurtured the ancient production of olive oil and wine, as well as the celebrated Lusitano horses. Visitors can enjoy this vibrant culture, exploring scenic vineyards and olive groves while savoring the locally produced delicacies. However, the true allure of this captivating destination lies in the stories yet to be uncovered, waiting to inspire and captivate those who dare to venture forth.
Key Points
- Scenic drive along the Tagus River and Lezíria landscape, providing panoramic views and insights into the region’s geography and local traditions.
- Exploration of Casa dos Patudos, a historical estate with connections to the 1910 Republic proclamation, offering a window into Portugal’s rich political history.
- Immersion in the equestrian culture of Golegã, the ‘Capital of the Horse,’ including visits to cultural sites and the Festa do Cavalo Lusitano celebration.
- Opportunities to interact with Lusitano horses and sample locally produced olive oil and wine, highlighting the region’s agricultural heritage.
- Customizable itinerary and flexible scheduling to accommodate traveler interests and ensure a memorable cultural experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This excursion along the Tagus River boasts an 8-hour duration and is priced from €288.00 per person.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s no upfront payment required to reserve a spot on this private tour with a live guide in English, Portuguese, or Spanish.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and pickup and drop-off locations include Lisbon and Oeiras.
Highlights include scenic drives, visits to historical estates, interactions with Lusitano horses, and tastings of local wine and olive oil.
Throughout the journey, guests can enjoy breaks, photo stops, guided tours, and free time to soak in the equestrian atmosphere and cultural heritage.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Santarem Portugal.
Itinerary Highlights
The journey begins with a scenic drive to Santarém, offering panoramic views of the Tagus River and Lezíria landscape.
The first stop is the Casa dos Patudos, the former residence of José Relvas, where you’ll learn about his role in the 1910 Republic proclamation.
Next, you’ll explore a working agricultural estate, interact with Lusitano horses, and enjoy wine and olive oil tastings.
The tour then takes you to Golegã, known as the Capital of the Horse, where you’ll discover local landmarks like the Church Matriz and Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas.
Throughout the day, you’ll learn about the equestrian atmosphere and witness the Festa do Cavalo Lusitano.
Activities and Experiences
Throughout the journey, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and experiences. Break time, photo stops, guided tours, and free time are interspersed with scenic views. An optional horse riding experience is available at an additional fee. At various stops, wine tasting, cheese tasting, and local snacks are offered, allowing visitors to enjoy the equestrian atmosphere and witness the Festa do Cavalo Lusitano.
| Activities | Experiences |
|---|---|
| Break Time | Wine Tasting |
| Photo Stops | Cheese Tasting |
| Guided Tours | Local Snacks |
Inclusions and Additional Fees
The tour package includes transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a guide/driver who provides live commentary in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Plus, fresh water and WiFi are provided on board, and all mandatory insurance in accordance with Portuguese legislation is covered.
While entry tickets and tasting fees for Casa dos Patudos, wine and olive oil tasting, and Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas are included, the optional horse experience carries an additional cost of €60.00.
Personal expenses, meals, and tips aren’t part of the tour price.
Travelers can customize their itinerary to focus on their points of interest and adjust the time spent at each location.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Notes
Itineraries are subject to change, allowing the tour to be customized to focus on the traveler’s points of interest and adjust the time spent at each location. Scenic views and cultural heritage exploration remain key components of the overall experience.
| Customization Options | Flexibility | Heritage |
|---|---|---|
| Choose points of interest | Adjust time at locations | Immerse in equestrian culture |
| Explore Tagus River landscape | Witness Lusitano horse festival | Visit historic estates and landmarks |
Though the itinerary may evolve, the essence of the tour – discovering the region’s rich history, production, and equestrian traditions – is guaranteed. Travelers can expect a truly memorable and tailored experience.
Scenic Drive to Santarém
From Lisbon, the tour commences with a scenic drive to Santarém, offering panoramic vistas of the Tagus River and the picturesque Lezíria landscape along the way.
As the vehicle winds through the countryside, passengers can admire the rolling hills, lush farmland, and the distant silhouette of the Ribatejo region.
The route provides a glimpse into the rural heart of Portugal, setting the stage for the immersive cultural experiences that await.
Throughout the journey, the guide shares insights into the history, geography, and local traditions of the area, whetting the appetite for the discoveries to come at the tour’s first stop, the Casa dos Patudos.
Exploring Casa Dos Patudos
Upon arriving at Casa dos Patudos, visitors explore the former residence of José Relvas, a pivotal figure in the 1910 proclamation of the Portuguese Republic.
The guide leads them through the historic halls, recounting Relvas’ life and his influential role in shaping the nation’s political landscape.
Guests are captivated by the architectural splendor and artistic treasures that adorn the interior, from the intricate tilework to the ornate furnishings.
As they explore the estate, they gain a deeper understanding of the country’s rich history and the role this prominent figure played in its transformation.
The tour provides a unique window into Portugal’s past, leaving visitors with a newfound appreciation for its cultural heritage.
Discovering Golegã and Ribatejo
After exploring the historic Casa dos Patudos, the tour moves on to the charming town of Golegã, known as the ‘Capital of the Horse’ in the Ribatejo region. Here, visitors discover the rich equestrian heritage and local cuisine. The tour includes a stop at the Church Matriz and the Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas, providing insights into the area’s cultural and artistic traditions.
| Golegã Highlights | ||
|---|---|---|
| Church Matriz | Explore | Heritage |
| Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas | Discover | Culture |
| Ribatejo Cuisine | Taste | Local |
The Ribatejo region is known for its strong connection to the horse, and visitors have the opportunity to enjoy this vibrant equestrian atmosphere and witness the Festa do Cavalo Lusitano, a celebration of the Lusitano horse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour does not have any age or health restrictions. It is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests of all ages and abilities. Participants should be able to walk short distances during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, complimentary water and snacks are provided, and there will be opportunities to purchase local cuisine and beverages at various stops along the itinerary.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers have the flexibility to customize the itinerary and spend more time at specific locations or add additional stops, though this may incur additional fees.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?
No special equipment is needed for the activities on this tour. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to explore the sites, and the horse riding experience at an additional cost has any necessary equipment provided.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour is customizable. Customers can choose the points of interest and adjust the time spent at each location to personalize the experience according to their preferences.
Recap
The Tagus River region of Portugal offers a captivating blend of agricultural heritage and vibrant cultural experiences.
Visitors can enjoy the production of acclaimed olive oil and wine, while also discovering the iconic Lusitano horses.
This scenic journey through the Ribatejo countryside promises a truly memorable exploration of Portugal’s rich history and traditions.
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