Marvão: the citadel suspended above the world

Spectacular panorama over Spain and the Alentejo

Perched at nearly 860 m altitude, the medieval fortress of Marvão offers a 360° viewpoint over the plains of the Alentejo and the Spanish sierra. 🏰

The ramparts, strengthened in the 13th–14th centuries, create an impressive silhouette. At sunset, the light gilds the stone and reveals the topography of the ridges.

To view local listings in Marvão.

Intact medieval alleyways

White houses, granite surrounds, immaculate cobbled streets: the village has kept its medieval layout. One strolls between small squares, ancient cisterns and kitchen gardens.

In spring, almond trees in bloom punctuate the immaculate façades. In winter, chimneys waft the scent of wood.

Unique and preserved atmosphere

Located in the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, Marvão breathes tranquility. The night sky there is incredibly starry — ideal for slowing down and reconnecting.

• To do: climb the ramparts for sunrise or sunset; follow a marked path along the ridges.
• To know if you buy: protected area = specific planning rules (regulated renovation, attention to openings and materials).

Castelo de Vide: medieval charm and Jewish quarter

White houses and ancient fountains

Sometimes nicknamed the “Sintra of the Alentejo”, Castelo de Vide charms with its whitewashed houses, terraced gardens and numerous fountains, witnesses of abundant water.

The narrow lanes converge towards the castle, while shady squares invite a pause.

On the market, the average of properties listed in the village is around 273 000 € for approximately 123 m² — often village houses with patios or small terraces ideal for a pied-à-terre.

See some listings in Castelo de Vide.

Exceptional Jewish heritage

The Judiaria preserves one of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal, now a small museum. Pointed-arch doors, stone inscriptions and narrow lanes tell a centuries-long coexistence.

A living and authentic village

Weekly market, Easter festivities, historic baths nearby: local life is well rooted, far from a frozen set. 🌸

• Not to be missed: the synagogue, the castle, a walk up to the viewpoints.
• Real estate idea: village houses with a patio or small terrace, sometimes in need of renovation, perfect for a pied-à-terre.

Alter do Chão: cradle of the Lusitano horse

World-renowned equestrian tradition

The Coudelaria de Alter (royal stud founded in the 18th century) continues the breeding of the Alter Real Lusitano, a national pride. 🐴

Visits, shows and training sessions allow you to get close to this living equestrian culture.

On the real estate side, the average of properties listed around Alter do Chão is notably large in area: about 455 000 € for properties of approximately 4 267 m² — often large quintas or estates adapted for horses. Check water availability and easements before any equestrian project.

To view listings in Alter do Chão.

White houses and rural atmosphere

The typical Alentejo village displays its white façades with colored trim, between quiet cafés and olive fields.

Museums and equestrian culture

Municipal museums and interpretation spaces stage the history of the horse, harnesses and trades linked to the stud.

• To experience: stable tours, dressage demonstrations, tasting of local olive oil.
• Real estate idea: small quintas outside the village for a nature-and-horses project (check water, fencing and easements).

Crato: heritage of the Knights of the Order of Malta

Former medieval commandery

Crato was an important seat of the Order of the Hospital (known as the Order of Malta). The Flor da Rosa monastery combines defensive austerity and Gothic elegance.

Between convents, churches and silent squares, the atmosphere invites contemplation. The stones tell of the passing of the monk-knights.

See a selection of houses and apartments in Crato.

• To do: visit the monastery, walk through the olive and cork oak fields.
• Buying advice: carefully check the heritage protection of buildings near monuments (prior authorization required for works).

Secret villages of the Serra de São Mamede

Nisa and its pottery craftsmanship

Nisa is renowned for its pottery inlaid with quartz, with delicate patterns. Workshops and shops perpetuate a singular know-how.

On the local market, you can find village houses and small properties at price levels comparable to other towns in the province, often property types destined for renovation.

See some listings of houses in Nisa.

Arronches and its rural charm

On peaceful banks, Arronches reveals its small churches, simple houses and a very Alentejo softness of life.

The surrounding natural park promotes hiking and provides an ideal setting for those seeking calm and proximity to nature.

Some local offers of houses in Arronches.

Campo Maior and its spectacular flower festivals

When the village mobilizes, the streets are covered with thousands of paper flowers. The Festas do Povo transform the town into an ephemeral garden. 🎉

Practical information

• Best time: spring and autumn (soft light, mild temperatures).
• Access: approx. 2h30 from Lisbon via the A6 then national roads; car recommended for exploring the area.
• Natural setting: protected park = rich biodiversity, but constraints for building/renovating.
• Real estate: more affordable than coastal areas; varied property types (granite village houses, herdades, ruins to rehabilitate). Consider energy certification, water (well/borehole) and Alojamento Local rules if renting seasonally.

Profile of buyers

According to Green Acres data for the Portalegre district, foreign buyers mainly come from the Netherlands (16% of foreign enquiries); the median price of foreign enquiries is 450 000 € for a median area of about 102 m² (median price per m² ~ 4 412 €). These figures testify to a real international interest in the region, notably for second homes and heritage properties.