Just 40 minutes from Lisbon lies Colares, one of Portugal’s most distinctive wine regions where vineyards grow in sandy soils along the Atlantic coast. This unique terroir produces remarkable wines with distinctive minerality and freshness, creating an unparalleled wine tourism experience for enthusiasts seeking authenticity.
A Perfect Day Among Ancient Vines and Ocean Views
Morning: Century-Old Traditions at Adega Regional de Colares
Begin your journey at the Adega Regional de Colares, Portugal’s oldest wine cooperative. Founded in 1931, this historic winery preserves traditional winemaking methods that date back centuries.
Visit Details:
- Location: Av. Dr. Brandão de Vasconcelos, Colares
- Hours: Guided tours at 10:30 AM or 11:30 AM (advance booking required)
- Experience: Taste classic Ramisco (red) and Malvasia (white) wines aged in century-old wooden casks
- Unique Feature: Discover pre-phylloxera vines, some over 100 years old, that survived thanks to the region’s sandy soil
Lunch: Seafood Gastronomy with Ocean Views
For lunch, head to Azenhas do Mar Restaurant, a stunning venue built into the cliff edge with panoramic ocean views.
- Try the fresh fish and seafood dishes paired with a Colares Malvasia white wine
- Request a table on the terrace to enjoy the spectacular view
- Capture the breathtaking scenery where cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean
Afternoon: Premium Wines at Casal Santa Maria
After lunch, visit Casal Santa Maria, a boutique winery with a fascinating history. Founded by a centenarian wine enthusiast, it offers a more intimate and personalized experience.
- Location: Rua Principal 18, Colares
- Experience: Premium wine tasting overlooking the vineyards and ocean
- Setting: Romantic gardens and charming architecture
- Wines: Sample the award-winning “Malvasia de Colares,” a wine that perfectly expresses the region’s terroir
Late Afternoon: Sunset at Adraga Beach
End your day with a relaxing walk at Adraga Beach, considered one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches. The sunset here creates a perfect backdrop for memorable photos, with impressive rock formations and the Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon.
Accommodation: A Special Night in Sintra
- Valverde Palácio de Seteais: A luxury experience in an 18th-century palace. book your stay here on Booking
- Casa do Valle: A more affordable yet equally charming option with views of Sintra’s palaces. book your stay here on Booking
Extending Your Experience: A Second Day in Colares
If you can dedicate another day to the region, don’t miss:
Viúva Gomes Winery: History in Every Bottle
Lunch at Cantinho Gourmet de Colares
A cozy small restaurant specializing in regional dishes, perfect for an authentic meal between visits.
Cultural Afternoon in Sintra
Complete your experience with a visit to Sintra’s monuments, such as Quinta da Regaleira, Pena Palace, or Monserrate Palace. In September, don’t miss the jazz festival in Monserrate’s gardens.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
- Book all visits in advance, especially for weekends
- Check for seasonal events like harvests (September/October) or themed wine dinners
- Consider hiring a local driver if you want to enjoy wine tastings without worries
- Bring a light jacket, even in summer, as the sea breeze can be cool
