Campo Maior Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Campo Maior, Portugal. Explore this hidden gem in Alentejo with our week-long itinerary, hiking/biking routes, and cultural insights.


Introduction to Campo Maior

Campo Maior is a charming town in the Alto Alentejo region of Portugal, known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine. This hidden gem is often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations in Alentejo, but visitors who make the effort to explore Campo Maior are rewarded with an authentic and unforgettable travel experience.

List of Places to Visit in Campo Maior

Whether you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor adventures, or indulging in local flavors, Campo Maior has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit in Campo Maior:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Campo Maior Castle: This imposing fortress dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Museu de Arte Sacra: Located inside the Church of Misericordia, this museum features an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts.
  • Forte de São João Baptista: This 17th-century fort is now a cultural center that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and other events throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Campo Maior: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Serra de São Mamede Natural Park: This protected area is a paradise for hikers, with miles of trails that wind through stunning forests, mountains, and valleys.
  • Barragem do Caia: This picturesque reservoir is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
  • Tapada Grande: This natural reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and birds of prey.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Campo Maior

Campo Maior is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the best routes include:

  • PR1 CMA - Castelo de Campo Maior Trail: This 13km trail takes you through the historic center of Campo Maior and up to the castle, offering spectacular views along the way.
  • PR2 CMA - Capela de São Pedro Trail: This 6km trail leads to the Chapel of São Pedro, passing through beautiful countryside and farmland.
  • Rota das Fontes Trail: This 7km circular trail takes you through forests and past several natural springs.

Best Things to Do in Campo Maior: Activities and Tours

From cultural experiences to adrenaline-pumping adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do in Campo Maior. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Wine tasting tour: Campo Maior is located in the heart of Alentejo wine country, and there are many wineries in the area that offer tastings and tours.
  • Horseback riding: Explore the beautiful countryside on horseback, with guided tours available for all levels of experience.
  • Hot air balloon ride: See Campo Maior from a new perspective on a peaceful hot air balloon ride, taking in the stunning landscapes from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Campo Maior

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Campo Maior, here’s an itinerary that will allow you to experience all the best the town has to offer:

Day Activity
1 Explore the historic center of Campo Maior, including the castle, churches, and museums.
2 Hike in the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, taking in the stunning mountain and forest landscapes.
3 Visit nearby towns like Elvas and Portalegre, both known for their historic architecture and cultural landmarks.
4 Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside, enjoying a bird’s eye view of the Alentejo region.
5 Try some local wines on a wine tasting tour, visiting some of the top wineries in the area.
6 Go horseback riding through the countryside, taking in the stunning views from a new perspective.
7 Relax by the Barragem do Caia reservoir, swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic in the sunshine.

Food and Drink Scene of Campo Maior

No trip to Campo Maior is complete without indulging in some local cuisine and wine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages in the area:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Migas: A traditional bread-based dish made with garlic, olive oil, and various pork products, such as sausage or bacon.
  • Açorda: A hearty soup made with bread, garlic, and cilantro, often served with seafood.
  • Bolo de Mel: A sweet cake made with honey, nuts, and spices, typically served at Christmas.

Local Beverages

  • Alentejo wines: Campo Maior is located in one of Portugal’s top wine regions, known for rich and complex reds like Alicante Bouschet and Touriga Nacional.
  • Licor de Amêndoa Amarga: A sweet almond liqueur, often served as a digestif after a meal.
  • Café com Cheirinho: A strong coffee spiked with a shot of brandy or other liquor.

Where to Stay in Campo Maior: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodations in Campo Maior, ranging from cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the top choices include:

  • Casa de Sezim: This elegant guesthouse is set in a restored 18th-century building and offers luxurious rooms, a pool, and a garden.
  • Pousada Mosteiro do Crato: This historic monastery has been transformed into a stunning hotel, with a spa, pool, and restaurant.
  • Hotel Santa Beatriz: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, all just steps from the town center.

What to Buy in Campo Maior: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and gifts to bring home from Campo Maior, consider picking up some of the following products:

  • Olive oil: Alentejo is known for its high-quality olive oil, and there are many local producers in the area.
  • Pottery: Campo Maior has a rich tradition of pottery-making, with unique designs and styles.
  • Cork products: Portugal is the world’s leading producer of cork, and you can find a wide range of cork products in Campo Maior, from bags to wallets to home decor items.

Local Culture and Customs of Campo Maior

Like much of Alentejo, Campo Maior is steeped in tradition and history. Some of the local customs and cultural events to look out for include:

  • Festa de São João: This annual festival celebrates the town’s patron saint, with live music, parades, and fireworks.
  • Romaria de São Sebastião: This religious procession takes place every January, honoring Saint Sebastian and featuring traditional costumes and music.
  • Campo Maior Cheese Fair: This popular event showcases the region’s cheese-making traditions, with tastings, workshops, and other activities.

Best Time to Visit Campo Maior

The best time to visit Campo Maior is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller. The town can get quite hot in the summer months, so if you do visit during this time, be sure to stay hydrated and avoid the midday sun. Winter can be a good time to visit as well, especially if you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Campo Maior

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Campo Maior:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wine, which are some of the best in Portugal.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially during religious events and festivals.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, including the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places, as it is illegal in Portugal.
  • Wear revealing clothing or swimwear outside of the beach or pool areas.
  • Leave valuables unattended or in plain sight in your car or hotel room.

Safety and Health

Safety in Campo Maior

Campo Maior is a safe destination for travelers, but as with any place, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft or other crimes. Be sure to keep your valuables secure and be cautious when traveling alone, especially at night.

Health in Campo Maior

Portugal has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors to Campo Maior can access medical care at the local health center or hospital if needed. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, just in case.

Getting to Campo Maior: Transportation Options and Logistics

Campo Maior is well-connected to other parts of Portugal and Europe, making it easy to reach by car, bus, or train. Here are some options for getting to Campo Maior:

Airports Near Campo Maior

The closest airports to Campo Maior are in Lisbon (180 km) and Faro (240 km), both offering national and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Campo Maior

Campo Maior Bus Station offers frequent connections to Lisbon, Elvas, and other nearby towns.

Other Options

If you prefer to travel by train, the nearest train stations are in Elvas and Portalegre. Renting a car is also a good option for exploring the area independently.

How to Get Around in Campo Maior

Campo Maior is a small town, and most of the main attractions and restaurants are within walking distance of the town center. Taxis and local buses are also available for getting around town or traveling to nearby destinations.

Where to Go Next from Campo Maior: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, consider visiting some of these nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Elvas: This UNESCO-listed town is known for its impressive fortifications and beautiful historic center.
  • Estremoz: This charming town is famous for its marble quarries and for being a center for craftsmanship.
  • Marvão: This medieval walled town offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into Portugal’s rich history.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a history buff, or a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure, Campo Maior has something for everyone. With its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, this town is a must-visit destination in the Alentejo region of Portugal.

A lovely church in the middle of town. A lovely church in the middle of town.