Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
superb kitchen, where breakfast - an onslaught of Alentejan delights - is served. Dis-
counts apply for long-term stays.
Convento de São Francisco
( 286 612 119;
www.conventomertola.com
;
apt €70)
For those who are happy with rustic and a
more laissez-faire approach, this former convent overlooking Mértola and the Rio Guadi-
ana is a lovely spot for hardier, artistic and/or tranquil souls. The fully equipped apart-
ments are converted from former stables, arteliers and the like. There's a cottage (solar
powered) on the grounds for those looking for complete seclusion. Single-night stays are
not offered. An artist-in- residence program is also available.
GUESTHOUSE
€€
DON'T MISS
ENTRADAS
The tiny village of Entradas is a photo-stop must. Entradas's main street features tiny, whitewashed homes and is
a wonderful example of a working rural village. The name is said to have come from the fact that it was the gate-
way
(entrada)
to the Campos de Ourique, sought-after winter pastures for herds and herders. It has a stunning rur-
al museum,
Museu da Ruralidade
(open 10am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 7pm Wednesday to Sunday, plus 2pm to
7pm Tuesday) , which displays many elements of local cultural and agricultural practices.
Eating
Mértola's speciality is game, including
javali
(wild boar) and the regional pork dish
migas
- great labouring fuel, but perhaps heavier than necessary for sightseeing.
Self-caterers should head to the
mercado municipal
(Municipal Market; Praça Vasco da Gama;
8am-4pm Mon-Sat)
, which sells fresh fruit and vegetables and other produce. There's also a
wonderful unsigned
bakery
(Rua Dr Afonso Costa 96)
, where you can buy fresh-baked bread (go
early or in the evening for hot rolls).
Café-Restaurante Alentejo
( 286 655 133; Moreanes; mains €7-11; lunch & dinner Tue-Sun)
This attractive place in Moreanes,
10km from Mértola on the way to São Domingos, is almost a museum thanks to its an-
tique exhibits (including the local clients themselves!) It serves great-value, hearty help-
ings of true Alentejan cuisine.
PORTUGUESE
€
A Esquina
PORTUGUESE
€€
