Wine Not Algarve Winery Tour

Exploring the Algarve with the Wine Not Algarve Winery Tour

This 5-hour guided tour offers a taste of Portugal’s newest wine destination, with visits to award-winning wineries, a hidden natural park, and plenty of local flair. It’s designed for those who want more than just a wine tasting—think scenic drives, fresh air, and engaging guides who bring the region’s wine culture to life.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it balances wine appreciation with nature and culture. Expect to enjoy three different wineries, each with its own personality, plus a walk through a peaceful natural park that’s off the usual tourist trail. The chance to sample a variety of wines in a relaxed setting, combined with a picnic lunch amid stunning scenery, makes it a well-rounded experience.

A possible drawback? The tour’s timing can be tight, especially at the lunch stop, with some reviewers noting a desire for more time to soak in the surroundings or explore the wineries at a slower pace. This is a quick, packed day, so if you’re looking for a slow-paced or very in-depth winery visit, you might find it rushing a little.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of wine, scenery, and culture, and who want a guided experience that’s both informative and scenic without breaking the bank. Perfect for wine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone curious about the Algarve’s emerging wine scene.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: Two award-winning wineries and a natural park, offering a mix of wine, nature, and art.
• Balanced Experience: Combines wine tasting, scenic drives, a picnic, and light walking.
• Small Group: Max 8 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Value for Money: At just over $81 per person, it packs in several highlights for a reasonable price.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guests appreciate Brodie’s friendly attitude and insight into the region.
• Timing & Pacing: Some reviews mention a desire for more time at certain stops, so plan accordingly.

A Deep Dive into the Wine Not Algarve Winery Tour

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

The tour departs from Lagos at 1:30 pm, with pickup offered from a central location in the town. The group size is capped at 8 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging. The whole trip lasts approximately five hours, including transport, tasting, and walking, making it a manageable half-day outing.

The transportation is comfortable, with a scenic drive through the Algarve countryside. The tour operates on a mobile ticket basis with confirmed booking, and you’ll be contacted upon booking to ensure everything’s set.

The First Stop: Quinta do Frances Winery

Arriving roughly 40 minutes after departure, the first stop is at Quinta do Frances, a well-regarded winery with a reputation for quality and beauty. Guests often rave about the wine tastings here—sampling three wines, with the option for a guided tour of the winery.

The winery’s setting offers a chance to soak in the peaceful vineyards and learn about Portuguese winemaking from a knowledgeable guide. One reviewer noted that Brodie, the tour guide, made the visit informative and fun, adding personal stories and insights that made the experience more engaging.

While the tasting itself is free, the highlight is exploring the surroundings—many guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to ask questions about wine production. The optional tour of the winery adds a layer of education, but even without it, the views and wines speak for themselves.

The Natural Park Stop: Parque Municipal do Sítio das Fontes

Next, the tour veers into a hidden gem of the Algarve, the Parque Municipal do Sítio das Fontes. This is a highlight for nature lovers—less crowded than typical tourist spots, but filled with beauty. With walking trails around the Arcade River, you can enjoy a gentle hike or dip your toes in the freshwater during a hot summer day.

The park’s atmosphere is calm, lush, and perfect for a picnic. The tour includes a fresh picnic lunch, which travelers find delightful—simple but tasty, served amid lovely natural scenery. Reviewers mention enjoying the picnic and the opportunity to relax in such a serene environment, with one noting it as a “beautiful spot for a break.”

There’s also a chance to get some light exercise or explore the area at your own pace, making this stop both refreshing and restorative.

The Final Winery: Quinta dos Vales

The last stop is at Quinta dos Vales, a stunning, award-winning estate famous for its sculptures and artistic ambiance. It’s a more lively, visually captivating place, and guests often comment on its impressive setting.

Wine tastings here are optional, but even visitors who skip the tasting still enjoy wandering among sculptures and enjoying the estate’s beauty. The estate is described as “gorgeous,” with reviews highlighting the sculpture gardens and the vibrant atmosphere that stands out from more traditional wineries.

If you’re lucky, your guide might share stories about the art and the winemaking process, adding to the experience. Those who enjoy art and architecture find this stop particularly memorable.

Overall Experience and Value

Throughout the day, the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor shine. Reviewers frequently mention Brodie’s ability to make the day informative and fun, blending humor with facts. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

While the itinerary is well-structured, some travelers expressed a wish for more time at certain stops—particularly the lunch at the park and the final winery. This indicates the tour is quite full, so plan to embrace the lively pace. Still, considering the price point, it offers excellent value, combining multiple highlights into one convenient package.

Practical Considerations

• Weather: The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, a different date or a full refund is offered.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 15 days in advance, reflecting steady interest.
• Inclusions: Drinks and snacks are plentiful throughout the day—beer, wine, soft drinks, water, and appetisers—making it a truly leisurely experience.
• Accessibility: The tour involves walking at the park and around the wineries—good shoes are recommended.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Portugal’s newer wineries and learn more about regional wines in a relaxed setting. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to walk through a charming natural park, combining outdoor activity with wine tasting.

It’s also perfect for small groups who value personalized attention and a more authentic vibe, rather than large, hurried tours. If you’re someone who enjoys art, scenic drives, and local culture, the artistic elements of Quinta dos Vales will surely appeal.

However, if you prefer a very slow-paced, in-depth winery tour or want more time at each stop, this tour might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a lively, balanced day with a good mix of wine, scenery, and socializing.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is primarily aimed at adults, especially since wine tasting is involved. However, the natural park stop can be enjoyed by all ages, and water or snacks are provided throughout.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is included in the tour, with pickup offered in Lagos and a comfortable drive through the Algarve countryside.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are provided if canceled within this window.

How long is the total duration?
The entire experience lasts around five hours, including the drive, wine tastings, walking, and picnic.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks such as wine, beer, soft drinks, and water are served throughout the day, along with appetisers.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Absolutely. Non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenery, the natural park, and the art at Quinta dos Vales.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended, especially for the park walk.

Is there an age or group size limit?
The tour is capped at 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience, but no specific age restrictions are noted beyond the general suitability for adults.

Will I learn about the wines?
Yes, wine tastings are accompanied by descriptions, and the guide shares insights about the wines and the wineries’ histories.

In essence, the Wine Not Algarve Winery Tour offers a lively yet relaxed way to discover Portugal’s emerging wine scene, paired with scenic nature and artistic touches. Whether you’re a wine lover or simply seeking a taste of local culture amid beautiful surroundings, this tour delivers a memorable, value-packed experience in the Algarve.