Enchanted Megaliths

This guided half-day ride explores the countryside around Évora, home to some of the oldest and most important megalithic monuments in Europe. Starting from the village of Guadalupe, you cycle mostly quiet dirt roads through the green, gently rolling landscapes of Valverde, among cork and holm oaks.

The route visits the Almendres Cromlech and Menhir, both more than 5,000 years old, and the Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro, one of the largest megalithic tombs on the Iberian Peninsula. It also takes in the ruins of Giraldo's Castle and the Roman ruins of Tourega, with an optional tough climb up to the castle.

Somewhere along the way, under a shady tree, your local guide stops for a taste of Alentejo cheese, chorizo, bread and a good glass of wine. The tour can be extended to a full day with a picnic lunch, or paired with an organic wine tasting.

Highlights

• Almendres Cromlech, one of the oldest stone circles in Europe
• Almendres Menhir and the Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro
• Ruins of Giraldo's Castle, with an optional climb to the top
• Roman ruins of Tourega
• Wine, cheese and chorizo stop in the Alentejo countryside
• Quiet rural tracks through the Valverde landscape near Évora

Surface and terrain
Mostly off-road on gentle, rolling dirt roads and farm tracks, with an optional difficult climb to Giraldo's Castle. Rated Easy overall.

Weather
The Alentejo has hot, dry summers, mild spring and autumn days, and cooler, wetter winters. Morning rides are best in July and August.

Suitable for
Beginners, families and casual riders with an interest in history and archaeology. Children up to 12 are catered for. A good add-on for travellers staying in Évora.