A day trip from Flor da Rosa

It was another lovely day and we decided to take a day trip from Flor da Rosa, visiting Avis, Alter Pedrosa and Alter do Chao. The countryside was pretty, with lots and lots of trees everywhere, like this little road lined with cork oaks.

Country road in the Alentejo, lined with cork oaks

Avis

Have popped into Avis more than once but last had a comprehensive visit in 2015 and the town has certainly been improved since then. (See post below)

In the 13th century the town was retaken from the Moors. John of Avis then established The Military Order of the Knights of St Benedict of Avis, a branch of the Monastery of Evora. The castle was built between 1214-23 and some of the walls, with gateways like the impressive Town Gateway, and other gateways, can still be found. The castle dates from the Middle Ages and originally had six towers; only three remain.

One of the remaining towers - the Tower of the Queen in Avis — One of the remaining towers – the Tower of the Queen in Avis

Inner city gateway in Avis in the Alentejo in Portugal — Gateway on to the Main Street from inside the walls

Walking around Avis

It was a warm day and we wandered around the line of the walls – our pace could hardly be described as ‘walking’! It was a national holiday and so everything was closed, apart from the Tourist Office and the nice lady there recommended we visit the Nautical Club of Avis.

The Cathedral in the middle of the town of Avis — The Cathedral in the middle of the town

Mediaeval Town Hall in Avis in rather a dilapidated state — Mediaeval Town Hall in rather a dilapidated state

There are lots of fascinating corners in the town.

Nautical Club of Avis

The Nautical Club of Avis is on the edge of the Maranhao Dam and about fifteen minutes outside the town. We found it quite easily and settled down on the terrace above (which you can’t see!) to some light refreshments. There is also a camp site here and I imagine it is a good place to visit.

Cross country

We have travelled this road before, and found the same stork’s nest! The roads here are pretty, but very narrow and not suitable for quick travel between one place and the next – but then we weren’t in a hurry.

Alter Pedrosa

Alter Pedrosa is another Mediaeval castle, now abandoned, but with wonderful views over the Alentejo.

OldCemetery (and Chapel?) at Alter Pedrosa

Alter do Chao

And then I wanted to see the gardens in Alter do Chao because I thought they had been renovated, but they are disappointing. However, the church was open and starting to prepare for the Easter Week.