Cliffs with caves overlooking turquoise sea with boats, under blue sky with clouds.
Colorful fairy tale castle with yellow, red, and purple towers on a hilltop, surrounded by green trees, under a partly cloudy sky.
Photo of a historic city gate with a clock and intricate stone carvings, leading to a monument in the background, flanked by yellow buildings with black balconies.
Colorful decorative tiles with intricate patterns laid out in rows.
A field of yellow flowers with rows of olive trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Aerial view of a historic hilltop fortress with stone walls and towers overlooking a town with white buildings and orange roofs, under a partly cloudy sky.

September 25 - October 5, 2026

DAYS

11 days

TRIP DATES

Coastlines & Castles in Southern Portugal

Join The Next Chapter Travel for an extraordinary 11-day journey through southern Portugal's most captivating destinations, where pristine Atlantic coastlines meet historic medieval castles and timeless traditions. From the untouched beaches of Comporta to the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve, this all-women small-group adventure offers an unparalleled experience combining coastal luxury with Portugal's rich cultural heritage. Known for its golden beaches, world-class wines, and warm hospitality, southern Portugal provides the perfect backdrop for an authentic Portuguese retreat.

When you travel with The Next Chapter Travel, every detail is carefully curated to ensure a truly indulgent blend of luxury, culture, and adventure. Whether you're horseback riding along pristine Atlantic beaches, exploring hidden sea caves by private yacht, or mastering the traditional art of Portuguese azulejos, each day brings new encounters with Portugal's most treasured experiences. With thoughtfully balanced moments of discovery and leisure, this journey through Portugal's most enchanting destinations is crafted to inspire, rejuvenate, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

A scenic view of a sandy beach with rocks, ocean waves, and pink flowers in the foreground. In the distance, there are cliffs, some greenery, and an industrial area with smokestacks.
Aerial view of the Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking Rio de Janeiro, with the red bridge of Ponte Rio-Niterói in the background over the water.
Front view of a Portuguese bakery with a glass window display of bread and wheat in baskets, outside bicycle with a burlap basket, and signage in Portuguese reading "A Padaria Portuguesa."

Your curated trip…

Highlights

  • Experience the pristine beauty of Comporta with horseback riding along untouched Atlantic beaches, where wild horses have galloped through surf for centuries

  • Indulge in luxury wellness at Quinta da Comporta, nestled among rice paddies and pine forests, with rejuvenating spa treatments inspired by sea and local botanicals

  • Discover the dramatic UNESCO-protected Costa Vicentina coastline, exploring charming fishing villages like Porto Covo and the historic birthplace of Vasco da Gama in Sines

  • Navigate to the famous Benagil Caves on a private boat tour, entering hidden grottos and the iconic natural cathedral with ethereal light streaming through its ceiling opening

  • Journey into the heart of Alentejo for authentic Portuguese experiences, including olive oil tastings and cork trekking through ancient forests in comfortable 4x4 vehicles

  • Explore medieval Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visiting Portugal's largest medieval cathedral and the haunting Capela dos Ossos created by Franciscan monks

  • Master the traditional art of creating Portugal's beloved azulejos during a hands-on tile workshop in historic Azeitão

  • Visit historic Palmela Castle with sweeping views across vineyards and coastline, followed by wine tasting at José Maria da Fonseca, Portugal's oldest family-run winery

  • Experience the soul of Portugal through an intimate Fado performance, the UNESCO-recognized musical tradition that expresses the uniquely Portuguese concept of saudade

  • Discover magical Sintra's royal splendor, exploring the fantastical Pena Palace and elegant Monserrate Palace with its exotic botanical gardens

And while these highlights promise to be memorable, we've also reserved a few special moments that will unfold along the way, making your Portuguese adventure truly unforgettable...

What is included:

  • 10 nights' accommodation in carefully selected luxury properties

  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary (all breakfasts, three lunches, eight dinners)

  • All transportation by luxury coach with professional driver/guide, including gratuities

  • Airport transfers for participants on the suggested arriving flights

  • All excursions listed in the itinerary with expert local guides, including entrance fees and gratuities

  • Horseback riding experience along Comporta beaches

  • Private yacht cruise to Benagil Caves with refreshments

  • Cork trekking adventure in 4x4 vehicles

  • Hands-on azulejo tile workshop

  • Wine tastings at featured vineyards

  • Traditional Fado performance and dinner

What is not included:

Luxury Accommodations

Quinta da Comporta - Days 1-3
A sophisticated luxury resort nestled among rice paddies and pine forests where Portugal's golden coastline meets untouched nature. This elegant property offers world-class spa facilities, beautiful grounds, and access to pristine Atlantic beaches.

Vilalara Thalassa Resort - Days 4-5
An oceanfront luxury resort on the stunning Algarve coast, featuring exceptional facilities, distinctive restaurants, and direct access to Portugal's most dramatic coastal scenery and the famous Benagil Caves.

Convento do Espinheiro - Days 6-7
A beautifully restored historic convent in Évora, offering elegant accommodations in the heart of the Alentejo region, perfectly positioned for exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites and authentic Portuguese culture.

Bairro Alto Hotel - Days 8-10
Located in the heart of Lisbon between the historic Bairro Alto and Chiado neighborhoods, this architectural gem blends timeless elegance with modern sophistication as a proud member of Leading Hotels of the World.

Transportation:

Luxury coach with professional driver/guide

Luxury outdoor pool area at a resort with wooden sunbeds, umbrellas, and a modern clubhouse in the background amid desert landscape.
Patio area with wooden seating, potted plants, and umbrellas on a sunny day, with a field and trees in the background.
Bright hotel room with white walls, wooden ceiling beams, large bed with white bedding and black and white pillows, near glass doors with cream curtains, two black rattan chairs with striped cushions, a small table, a large potted plant, and a cozy decor.

Pricing:

Double occupancy: $6,690 (per person) - limited double occupancy rooms available

Single occupancy: $8,990

A 5% LOYALTY discount will appear on the trip balance invoice for returning clients.

Limited to a small group for an intimate experience.

A $1,000 deposit is due at booking, and the balance is due no later than 90 days prior to departure.

The deposit and final balance are non-refundable. Travel insurance is highly recommended.

We accept payments via PayPal

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations made more than 90 days prior to the tour start date will receive a credit towards a future Next Chapter Travel tour commencing within a year of the canceled tour.

Cancellations made less than 90 days prior to the tour start date will receive no credits or refunds. Contact your travel insurance advisor to make a claim.