The history of this village located in the Alentejo dates back to Roman times.
From the century. XIV the village was developed from the castle, built by D. Pedro I in 1359, which is located in the main square, being one of the images that marks this village.
The Royal Alter Stud Farm, founded in 1748 by D. João V, is the oldest stud farm in the world in continuous operation. His role was fundamental in the recovery of the Portuguese Lusitano purebred horse Alter Real, a High School horse that is now famous all over the world.
The Royal Alter Stud Farm has been very important in the notoriety and dissemination of the name of this village.
The Alto Alentejo (North Alentejo) capital is one of the most emblematic Portuguese cities.
This historic center has been classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, in an area of about 105 hectares and about 400 buildings, which is, by itself, one of the best reasons to visit this wonderful Alentejo city.
With all its rich history, there are many places to visit, such as its imposing Cathedral built between 1186 and 1204, the well-known Roman Temple (popularly called “Temple of Diana”) built between the 1st and 3rd century AD, the São Francisco Church and its famous Bones Chapel, completely covered with human bones.
Located right in the center and a must-visit is the famous Praça do Giraldo, with Arabic-style arcades and a fountain dating from 1571, a meeting place for all generations, with entertainment and varied shows.
The 4th stage is purposely shorter, allowing athletes to recover from the effort accumulated in the previous days. The early arrival at the end of the stage gives all athletes time to combine their recovery with the discovery of the magic and beauty of the city of Évora.
The typical undulating landscape of Alentejo, with its cornfields and narrow roads surrounded by cork oaks make the perfect picture of the Alentejo.
Avis, Pavia and Arraiolos are some of the most emblematic and historical cities and villages of Alentejo, visited in this 4th stage.
A perfect mix of history, culture and gastronomy gives to Évora a unique atmosphere making it, one of the main tourist attractions of Portugal.
Vila Galé Collection Alter Real - Equestrian Resort, Conference & Spa is a hotel located in Alter do Chão, within the Royal Alter Stud Farm, the most ancient in the world.
This 4-star unit features two outdoor pools, a Satsanga spa with a heated indoor pool, a restaurant with regional cuisine, and a “Dressage” bar. It also has a library.
In the fully restored traditional olive oil mill, with a typical wood-fired oven, it’s possible to do wine and olive oil tastings.
This boutique hotel in the Alentejo is inspired by the site's history, and it comes as no surprise that it is dedicated to the equestrian theme. Home to the Lusitano purebred horse, the Alter Stud Farm was created in 1748 by King D. John V and is deemed the oldest in the world to operate uninterruptedly in the same place.
Here, you can take the opportunity to take a guided tour of the stud farm, but also experience riding a horse for the first time. Carriage driving, round pen horse ride lessons and horseback rides are also available, both for beginners and experts.
A falconry house and its museu mis also available. Watch the flight of the falcons, try the “flying the bird to the glove” and be amazed by the magnificence of these animals.
This is one of the exemples of what we say about Ride Across Portugal: “much more than cycling”.