Algarve wine tour and lunch in Silves or time to visit the city

Key Points

• Private and shared options available, with a maximum group size of 8 guests
• Visit two distinct wine estates: Quinta Do Frances and Villa Alvor, each offering unique insights into regional winemaking
• Enjoy tastings of six local wines across both estates, included in the tour price
• Lunch at Recanto Dos Mouros features starters, a main course, dessert, and house wine
• Hotel pickup and drop-off provide added convenience in Portimao
• Knowledgeable guide dedicated to making the experience engaging and informative

Algarve’s Top Private Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch

This 6-hour private tour in the Algarve costs $121.63 per person and is designed for those eager to explore Portugal’s wine scene in a relaxed setting. It begins with pickup from Portimao, ensuring a smooth start, and offers the chance to visit two of the region’s most interesting wine estates. The trip combines wine tastings, guided explanations, and a traditional Portuguese lunch, making it perfect for wine lovers and curious visitors alike.

The tour guarantees a personalized experience if booked with four or more people, with groups of 2 to 5 sharing a guide. For smaller groups or those seeking exclusivity, a private tour option is available for an extra fee. The average booking time is around 67 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among visitors planning ahead.

Visiting Quinta Do Frances Winery in Silves County

The first stop takes you to Quinta Do Frances, located north of Portimao on the slopes of the Monchique Mountains. This estate is notable for its exclusive production and is the northernmost vineyard in the Algarve. Owned by a Portuguese-French couple who met in Bordeaux, this winery represents a personal and artisanal approach to winemaking.

You’ll explore vineyards planted on the slopes of the Odelouca River Valley, and visit a small but well-equipped winery that includes a tasting room, barrel room, and laboratory. The 1-hour 30-minute visit offers a detailed explanation of the winemaking process, from grape to bottle. At this estate, you taste three classic wines, gaining insight into the unique terroir of the region.

Villa Alvor: The Historic Family Estate Near Monchique

Next, the tour guides you to Villa Alvor, situated on the northern border of Portimao and Alvor. This estate has roots dating back to 1865, and in 1999, it built a modern winery that became the first in the Algarve to produce certified designation of origin wines.

Amid cork trees, wheat fields, and orange groves, visitors see a blend of tradition and modernity. The estate’s 1-hour visit reveals the family’s long-standing grape-growing history, and the winery tour includes tastings of three more wines from their selection. The estate’s esplanade and barrel room showcase the craftsmanship behind their wines, making the visit both educational and visually appealing.

Traditional Lunch at Recanto Dos Mouros

After the winery visits, the tour includes a 1 hour 30 minutes stop at Recanto Dos Mouros for a traditional Portuguese lunch. The meal features starters, a choice of main course, dessert, house wine, and coffee and water. The restaurant’s setting provides a warm, authentic atmosphere, giving guests a glimpse of local culinary customs.

The lunch menu is included in the tour price, adding great value and allowing for a relaxed break amid the day’s activities. Optional tapas are available at the wineries upon request but come at an extra charge.

What’s Included in the Algarve Wine Tour

The package offers a full guided experience, with a dedicated guide throughout the day. Guests taste a total of six wines—three at each winery—and enjoy a lunch with drinks. The private visits ensure an intimate look at each estate’s production process, with explanations of vineyard and winery practices.

Transport is conveniently arranged with hotel pickup and drop-off in Portimao, making the day smooth and hassle-free. The group size is limited to 8 people, with options for share or private tours, ensuring personalized attention.

Additional Costs and Optional Extras

While the standard tasting and lunch are included, upgrades are available. These include premium wine tastings or additional drinks at the restaurant, which come with extra charges. The tour does not include food or drinks at the wineries beyond the tastings, but tapas can be requested for additional cost.

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics in Portimao

The tour starts at R. Salgueiro Maia 17A, Portimão, where guests are picked up by the guide. The activity concludes back at the original meeting point. The most travelers will find the location accessible, as it is near public transportation options, and the entire group can participate if they meet the minimum size.

Insights from Reviews and Guide Expertise

The tour receives a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 18 reviews, emphasizing knowledgeable guides and engaging explanations. Reviewers highlight Fabio’s passion and depth of expertise, which make the experience enjoyable and educational. Guests also appreciate the generous wine portions, the value of the lunch, and the personalized attention.

Multiple reviews mention that the small group size and dedicated guides make the trip more intimate and informative. The full-day pace is well-balanced, with enough time at each stop to learn and taste without feeling rushed.

Algarve Wine Tour in Context

This tour is well-suited for wine enthusiasts looking for an educational and relaxed experience. The combination of visits to historic and modern wineries offers a broad perspective on Algarve winemaking. The included lunch provides a satisfying break and a taste of local cuisine, making this tour a satisfying and comprehensive day trip.

The flexibility of private and shared options caters to different preferences, and the hotel pickup adds convenience, especially for those staying in Portimao. The price point is competitive considering the full-day itinerary, tastings, and meal included.

Algarve Wine Tour and Lunch: Final Thoughts

This private wine tour in the Algarve offers a balanced mix of education, tasting, and local cuisine. The visits to Quinta Do Frances and Villa Alvor reveal the diversity of regional wines, from artisanal to certified origin varieties. The lunch in Silves or time to explore the town allows for a flexible experience tailored to your interests.

The enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides help make each visit engaging, and the guided tastings ensure you leave with an appreciation for Algarve wines. The small-group format guarantees a personalized experience, making it an excellent choice for wine lovers seeking depth and comfort in their discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wine beginners?
Yes, the guide explains the winemaking process clearly, making it accessible for all levels of wine knowledge.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including visits, tastings, and lunch.

Are private tours available?
Yes, private tours are an option, especially for groups of four or more, for an extra fee.

What is included in the lunch?
The lunch includes starters, a main course of choice, dessert, house wine, coffee, and water.

Can I customize the tour?
Optional tapas and premium tastings are available at an extra charge; otherwise, the itinerary is fixed.

What are the stops on the tour?
Guests visit Quinta Do Frances, Villa Alvor, and have lunch at Recanto Dos Mouros.

What is the group size?
Shared tours accommodate up to 5 guests, with private options available for groups of 4 or more.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is recommended at least 67 days in advance through the provider’s platform, with options for cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Portimao are included for convenient access.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized guidance, diverse wine estates, and included traditional lunch add notable value, making it a memorable Algarve experience.