Redondo Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of Redondo Portugal. Learn about the food and drink scene, where to stay, and how to get around.


Introduction to Redondo

Redondo is a small town located in the Alto Alentejo region of Portugal. Known for its traditional crafts, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, this sleepy town is a hidden gem that should not be missed.

List of Places to Visit in Redondo

Here are some of the top places to visit in Redondo:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Casa do Alentejo: A beautifully restored 17th-century mansion turned cultural center that showcases the cultural and artistic heritage of Alentejo.
  • Church of Saint Mary: A historic church that dates back to the 16th century and features a stunning altarpiece.
  • Redondo Castle: A charming castle that dominates the town’s skyline and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Natural Attractions of Redondo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Serra D’Ossa: A range of hills that offers stunning panoramic views of the region.
  • Monte do Colmeal: A nature reserve full of hiking trails and picnic areas.
  • Albufeira da Barragem do Alqueva: The largest artificial lake in Europe, which offers a variety of watersports and a lovely beach.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Redondo

Redondo has many excellent hiking and biking trails that take you through breathtaking scenery and charming villages. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Rota das Adegas: A 26 km trail that takes you through some of the best wineries in the region.
  • Rota do Barro e do Vinho: A 22 km route that takes you through several traditional pottery workshops and wine cellars.
  • Serra D’Ossa Route: A challenging 15 km trail that rewards you with stunning views of the region’s hills and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Redondo: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Redondo has plenty of activities and tours to keep you entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Redondo:

  • Wine tasting: Take a tour of one of the many local wineries and taste some of Alentejo’s famous wines.
  • Pottery workshops: Redondo is known for its traditional pottery, and several local workshops offer the chance to learn about this craft.
  • Horseback riding: Explore the countryside on horseback and take in the stunning views of Serra D’Ossa.
  • Hot-air balloon ride: Take a scenic ride in a hot-air balloon and see the region from a completely different perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Redondo

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Redondo:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Casa do Alentejo and the Church of Saint Mary
Day 2 Take a wine-tasting tour and visit the Albufeira da Barragem do Alqueva
Day 3 Explore the Serra D’Ossa range on a hiking or biking trail
Day 4 Take a pottery workshop and explore Redondo Castle
Day 5 Visit the Monte do Colmeal Nature Reserve and enjoy a picnic
Day 6 Take a hot-air balloon ride and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the region
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local cuisine at one of Redondo’s restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Redondo

The food and drink scene in Redondo is a true reflection of the region’s rich cultural heritage. From hearty stews to succulent grilled meats, the local cuisine is a feast for the senses.

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Cozido: A hearty stew made with a variety of meats and vegetables.
  • Lamb alentejana: A succulent lamb dish cooked with garlic, paprika, and coriander.
  • Açorda: A bread soup made with garlic, coriander, and olive oil.
  • Queijadas de Toucinho: A dessert made with pork fat, sugar, eggs, and almonds.

Local Beverages

No visit to Redondo is complete without trying some of the region’s famous wines. The Alentejo region is known for its full-bodied reds, but you will also find some excellent whites and rosés. Some of the best wineries to visit include Monte da Ravasqueira, Esporão, and Cartuxa.

Where to Stay in Redondo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Redondo has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, here are some of the best places to stay in Redondo:

  • Pousada Convento de Vila Viçosa: A luxurious 16th-century convent turned hotel that features elegant rooms and a pool.
  • Herdade do Amarelo Nature & Spa: An eco-friendly resort that offers spacious rooms, a spa, and a restaurant.
  • Casa da Câmara: A cozy guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms and a lovely terrace.

What to Buy in Redondo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Redondo is known for its traditional pottery, and you will find several local shops that sell these unique and beautiful pieces. Some of the other must-buy items include:

  • Alentejo wines: Take home a bottle or two of some of the region’s famous wines.
  • Olive oil: The Alentejo region is known for its high-quality olive oil, which makes a great souvenir.
  • Cork products: Portugal is the world’s largest producer of cork, and you will find several shops that sell cork products such as bags and wallets.

Local Culture and Customs of Redondo

Redondo is a town steeped in tradition, and the locals take great pride in their heritage. From pottery to music, the town’s cultural offerings are vast and varied. Some of the local customs to be aware of include:

  • Pottery: Redondo is famous for its traditional pottery, which has been passed down from generation to generation.
  • Music: Alentejo is known for its unique music style known as “Cante Alentejano,” which features a group of singers accompanied by a guitar.
  • Festivals: Redondo hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Festa da Bênção do Gado (Blessing of the Cattle Festival) and the Feira da Antiguidades (Antiques Market).

Best Time to Visit Redondo

The best time to visit Redondo is from May to October, when the weather is warm and the town is alive with festivals and events. The peak tourist season is in July and August, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices during these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Redondo

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Redondo:

Do:

  • Learn about the town’s traditional crafts, such as pottery and weaving.
  • Try the local cuisine and wine.
  • Take a scenic hike or bike ride through the Serra D’Ossa range.

Don’t:

  • Overlook the town’s historic churches and castles.
  • Forget to respect the locals’ culture and customs.
  • Leave Redondo without trying some of the local pottery.

Safety and Health

Safety in Redondo

Redondo is generally a safe town, and visitors are unlikely to face any significant risks. However, it’s always a good idea to use common sense and take precautions such as keeping valuables secure and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Health in Redondo

Redondo has several pharmacies and a health center in case of illness or injury. The tap water is safe to drink, but it’s always wise to carry a bottle of water when out and about.

Getting to Redondo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Redondo is located in the Alto Alentejo region and is around a two-hour drive from Lisbon. The town is easily accessible by car and bus.

Airports Near Redondo

The nearest airports to Redondo are Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) and Faro Airport (FAO), both of which are around a two-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Redondo

Redondo has a bus station that serves several regional and national destinations, including Lisbon, Évora, and Beja.

Other Options

Redondo is also easily accessible by car. The town is around a two-hour drive from Lisbon and a three-hour drive from Faro.

How to Get Around in Redondo

Redondo is a small town, and it’s easily walkable. However, if you want to explore the surrounding countryside, it’s a good idea to rent a car or hire a bike.

Where to Go Next from Redondo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Redondo is located in the heart of the Alentejo region, which means there are plenty of other charming towns and scenic spots to explore nearby. Some of the best places to visit include:

  • Évora: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and medieval architecture.
  • Estremoz: A picturesque town that is famous for its marble quarries and castle.
  • Moura: A charming town that is known for its traditional Alentejo architecture and its close proximity to the Alqueva dam.

Conclusion

Redondo is a town that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in art, food, or the great outdoors, this sleepy town has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, Redondo is the perfect destination.

A view of Redondo. A view of Redondo.