All Available Dates - Call 01 2366852 To Book Now Or Email info@sunway.ie

 

Do you want to uncover a different side of Portugal. Step off the beaten path and uncover the authentic heart of Portugal with our carefully curated collection of Portuguese Special Interest Tours. Designed for the culturally curious traveller, each itinerary blends gentle exploration with meaningful encounters—think vineyard lunches in the sun-dappled Douro Valley, hands-on workshops in Algarve hill villages, and the timeless charm of Alentejo’s whitewashed towns.

Let Portugal surprise you and venture beyond the postcards.

---

Footprints & Flavours of the Algarve

• From €1499
• 08-16 October

Day 1 – Arrival in the Algarve
Fly from Dublin to Faro and transfer inland to the charming hilltop village of Alte, known for its whitewashed houses and natural springs.
Half board accommodation in Alte.

Day 2 – Walk from Alte to Salir
Begin your journey on the Via Algarviana with a self-guided walk through rolling countryside and olive groves to the quiet village of Salir (approx. 4 hrs).
Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure—perhaps explore Salir’s cobbled streets or relax at your hotel.
Half board accommodation in Salir.

Day 3 – Walk to Querença + Aromatic Plant Workshop
Follow the Via Algarviana to the traditional village of Querença (approx. 4 hrs), nestled in the Barrocal hills.
In the afternoon, visit a local farm for an engaging workshop on Algarve’s aromatic plants. Learn how to identify them, taste herbal teas, and blend your own infusion.
Half board accommodation in Querença.

Day 4 – Circular Walk & Cork Workshop
Enjoy a guided circular walk around Querença (approx. 3 hrs), exploring limestone hills and rural trails.
Later, dive into the world of the cork oak. Learn about this unique tree’s ecological and cultural role in the Algarve, and craft your own cork souvenir.
Half board accommodation in Querença.

Day 5 – Walk to Loulé + Tapas & Wine Workshop
Continue along the Via Algarviana from Querença to Loulé (approx. 4 hrs), passing through tranquil forests and hidden valleys.
Explore Loulé’s rich heritage, from its medieval castle to ancient Islamic baths, then savour a tapas and wine pairing workshop at a local eatery.
Half board accommodation in Loulé.

Day 6 – Coastal Walk & Basket Weaving
Transfer to the coast for a gentle 3-hour walk through the Ludo wetlands, along Ancão Beach and across Faro Island. Enjoy a relaxed beach picnic en route.
In the afternoon, join a traditional cane basketry workshop and learn the time-honoured techniques of Algarvean artisans.
Dinner in a local restaurant.
Half board accommodation in Faro.

Day 7 – Gastronomy Workshop in Loulé Market
Visit the vibrant Loulé Market with a local food expert to explore the foundations of the Mediterranean diet. Learn how to choose the freshest seasonal ingredients and prepare a delicious lunch together.
Enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore Faro’s old town.
Half board accommodation in Faro.

Day 8 – Departure
Transfer to Faro Airport for your return flight to Dublin.

---

Hidden Alentejo: Slow Days in Portugal’s Heartland

• 13-18 October
• from €1199

Day 1 – Arrival & Lisbon to Évora
Fly from Dublin to Lisbon. Enjoy a panoramic tour of Portugal’s vibrant capital, taking in landmarks such as the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém. Free time for lunch in one of Lisbon’s charming neighbourhoods before transferring to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city steeped in Roman and medieval history.
Half board accommodation in Évora or similar.

Day 2 – Discover Historic Évora
Explore Évora on a guided walking tour through its cobbled streets, Roman ruins, and Gothic architecture. Highlights include the Roman Temple, the Chapel of Bones, and the grand Évora Cathedral. Enjoy a traditional Alentejan lunch at a local restaurant.
Half board accommodation in Évora or similar.

Day 3 – Wine Tasting in the Alentejo
Visit a renowned Alentejo winery and learn about the region’s wine-making traditions. Tour the vineyards and cellars before sampling a selection of award-winning wines paired with local delicacies.
Half board accommodation in Évora or similar.

Day 4 – Villages of the Alentejo
Take a scenic journey through the Alentejo countryside, visiting some of its most picturesque villages. Discover whitewashed houses, hilltop castles, and artisan traditions that reflect the soul of rural Portugal.
Half board accommodation in Évora or similar.

Day 5 – Departure
Transfer from Évora to Lisbon Airport for your return flight to Dublin.

---

Tastes & Traditions of the Douro & Porto

• 11-16 October
• From €1199

Day 1 – Arrival in Porto
Fly from Dublin to Porto, Portugal’s atmospheric second city nestled along the banks of the Douro River. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy your first evening soaking in the charm of this historic riverside destination.
BB Overnight in Porto.

Day 2 – Discover Porto & Its Port Wine Legacy
Explore the heart of Porto on a guided city tour, from the colourful Ribeira district to the striking Dom Luís I Bridge. Admire the city’s baroque churches, tiled façades, and lively squares.
In the afternoon, cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia for a visit to one of the city’s famous port wine cellars. Learn about the centuries-old tradition of port production and enjoy a tasting of this iconic fortified wine.
BB Overnight in Porto.

Day 3 – Into the Douro Valley: Villages, Vines & Views
Leave the city behind and travel into the serene landscapes of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage wine region. Visit the historic towns of Lamego, known for its impressive hilltop sanctuary, and Amarante, a riverside gem with a rich artistic heritage.
Enjoy lunch and wine tasting at a traditional quinta (wine estate), where you’ll experience local hospitality and regional flavours.
Half board accommodation in the Douro Valley.

Day 4 – Douro River Cruise & Wine Heritage
Take in the valley’s beauty from the water with a relaxing river cruise through terraced vineyards and steep valley walls.
Afterwards, visit another quinta for a guided tour and wine tasting session. In the afternoon, stop in the picturesque village of Pinhão to admire the beautifully tiled train station, a tribute to local wine culture.
Half board accommodation in the Douro Valley.

Day 5 – Return to Porto & Departure
Travel back to Porto and transfer to the airport for your return flight to Dublin, taking with you the flavours and tranquillity of the Douro.

---

Please note that the prices listed for these itineraries are indicative only. For accurate quotes tailored to individual travellers or groups please contact us