Algarve wine tour and mountain top trip with lunch or dinner at sunset time

The Algarve wine tour and mountain top trip with sunset dining offers a beautifully curated experience in southern Portugal. Priced at $160.03 per person, this 6 to 7-hour journey takes you through two distinguished vineyards, where expert guides lead you through wine tastings of six carefully selected wines. The tour starts from Portimao, with convenient pickup options, making it accessible and comfortable. A standout feature is the ascent to Mount Fóia, Portugal’s highest point south of the country, offering breathtaking 360º panoramic views that make for an unforgettable backdrop for your gourmet lunch or dinner. This small-group experience, capped at 8 participants, ensures an intimate and personalized setting, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery.

While the tour’s highlight is the combination of wine, food, and scenic vistas, travelers should note that food at the wineries is not included, and optional upgrades are available. This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts, lovers of scenic landscapes, and those looking for a relaxed, yet informative day in the Algarve’s mountain and vineyard regions.

Key Points

• Visit two Algarve vineyards with full guided tours and six wine tastings
• Includes a scenic ascent to Mount Fóia, Portugal’s highest peak in the south
• Sunset dining option at mountain-top restaurant with stunning coastal views
• Small-group size of maximum 8 participants for a personalized experience
• All-day experience with pickup included from Portimao and an easy pace
• Expert guides share detailed explanations of wine-making and regional history

Algarve Vineyards: Villa Alvor’s Family Tradition

The tour begins at Villa Alvor, located on the border of Portimão and Alvor. This estate has been part of the family since 1865 and boasts a modern winery built in 1999. Villa Alvor is notable as the first producer of certified designation of origin wines in the Algarve. Visitors explore vineyards, cork trees, wheat fields, and orange groves, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Monchique Mountains. The estate’s large property offers a glimpse into traditional wine production, with visible oak barrels, a shop, and a tasting area where the guided tour takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. Admission is included, and the estate’s history and wine-making process are explained in detail.

Quinta do Fances Winery: A Bordeaux-Inspired Venture

Next, the tour moves to Quinta do Fances, situated in the northern part of Portimao, on the slopes of the Odelouca River Valley. Owned by a Portuguese-French couple who met in Bordeaux, this winery reflects their wine-growing expertise. Established at the start of the 21st century, Quinta do Fances features a small but well-equipped winery, a tasting room, and a barrels room. The guided visit lasts about 1 hour, during which you will learn about the vine cultivation, winemaking techniques, and regional influences. The estate’s location on the beginning of the Monchique Mountains provides a distinct terroir, contributing to its unique wines.

Scenic Drive Through Monchique Town and Mountain Peak Fóia

After visiting the vineyards, the tour continues with a drive through Monchique, a charming town known for its thermal springs and mountain scenery. The journey culminates at Monte Fóia, the highest point in southern Portugal, boasting 360º panoramic views across the Algarve and beyond. A quick 10-minute stop allows visitors to absorb the scenery and take photos of the sprawling vistas.

Sunset or Lunch/Dinner at Mount Fóia’s Mountain-Top Restaurants

The tour offers a choice between a lunch or dinner experience at two mountain-top restaurants. Restaurante Luar Da Fóia and Paraíso da Montanha serve as the dining venues, with approximately 1 hour 30 minutes allocated for the meal. Guests can select the timing when booking. The meal includes starters, a house wine of choice, a main course, dessert, coffee, and water, ensuring a full flavor experience with spectacular coastal sunset views if timed for the evening. The dining experience is highly praised for its delicious food and spectacular setting.

Included Features and Tour Logistics

The tour is designed for small groups of 2 to 5 people sharing, or up to 8 for a private experience. A permanent guide accompanies the group, providing comprehensive explanations of every step from vine to bottle. Wine tastings include 3 classic wines at each vineyard, totaling 6 tastings. The lunch or dinner is a full meal with house wine, coffee, and water included. Optional extras, such as additional wine tastings or tapas, are available at an extra cost.

The meeting point is at R. Salgueiro Maia 55, Portimão, and the tour concludes back at the same location. Pickup is included, and the tour is most suitable for most travelers, with most days available upon booking. The entire experience emphasizes personalized attention and relaxed pacing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This experience shines because of its blend of wine, scenery, and cuisine, all framed within a small-group setting that ensures a more personalized approach. Guests frequently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially their ability to explain complex wine topics in an accessible way. The scenic drive to Mount Fóia and the stunning coastal sunset views are consistently highlighted as major highlights, offering a memorable visual backdrop to the day’s more educational and culinary elements.

Limitations and Things to Consider

While the tour offers a comprehensive wine experience, it does not include food at the wineries, which can be arranged at an extra cost. Also, the dining is set at mountain-top restaurants, so guests should be prepared for upward driving and moderate walking at Fóia. The group size for shared tours is limited to 5 people, ensuring intimacy but also requiring advance booking, often 42 days in advance. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, a private tour is available at an extra fee.

Perfect for Wine and Scenery Lovers

This tour caters to those who enjoy wine tasting and breathtaking mountain vistas, combined with local cuisine. The expert guidance and stunning panoramic views make it ideal for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxing day away from busy city life. The good balance of educational content, scenic beauty, and culinary pleasure ensures a satisfying experience in the Algarve.

Final Thoughts on the Algarve Wine and Mountain Top Trip

The Algarve wine tour and mountain top experience offers a well-rounded day filled with tastings, scenic drives, and mountain dining. At $160.03, it provides excellent value for money, considering the full guided tours, tastings, and meals included. The small-group format and expert guides ensure a personalized, engaging experience. The stunning sunset views from Mount Fóia are a highlight that adds a magical touch to the day, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine wine exploration with spectacular scenery in Portugal’s Algarve region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including vineyard visits, driving, and dining.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at R. Salgueiro Maia 55, Portimão, with pickup included.

Are the wine tastings extensive?
Yes, six wines are tasted—three at each vineyard, providing a broad overview of the region’s wines.

Can I choose lunch or dinner?
Yes, during booking, you select whether to enjoy lunch or dinner at the mountain-top restaurant.

Is this tour private or shared?
It generally operates in small groups of 2-5 people, with private options available for groups of 6 or more.

What is the age suitability?
Most travelers can participate, but specific physical requirements are not detailed, so some walking or driving at altitude should be considered.

What makes this tour different from others in the Algarve?
The combination of vineyard visits, scenic mountain drive, and sunset dining at Portugal’s highest peak creates a uniquely scenic and educational experience designed for wine lovers and scenery admirers.

Are drinks at the restaurant included?
The house wine is included with the meal, but additional drinks are available for purchase.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor driving and mountain walking is recommended, especially for the scenic stop at Fóia.

Is there an option for a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available with an extra fee, providing a more exclusive experience tailored to your needs.