Discover the clear blue waters of the Tagus River fringed by lush green pine forests. Admire the gothic churches made of intricately carved ochre stone and the dark brown walls of the Templar castles contrasting with the brilliantly whitewashed houses. Watch the red-vested and gallant ‘campino’ sitting high on his horse driving a herd of ferocious black bulls. Discover heady wines, picturesque wine-cellars, old manor houses and farms, vineyards and olive groves. This is Ribatejo…portrayed in vibrant colours, warmed by a golden-yellow sun.

The picturesque small town of Santarem is 60kms north of Lisbon and is the principal city of the Ribatejo region, renowned for its wines, rich cuisine, horses and bullfighting. In a quiet location, just a short walk from the remarkable Gothic centre of this ancient town, is the fertile plain through which the Tagus River flows to Lisbon and onto the Atlantic. Rows of vines stretch out as far as the eye can see waiting for the sun to transform the grape juice into heady, fragrant nectar. A prestigious city immersed in one of the few gardens of Eden still existing in Europe, Santarem will seduce you with its heady mixture of culture and beauty.

Two thousand years of vine growing have resulted in local varieties ideally suited to the soils and climate of the region. These days, the Ribatejo is one of Portugal’s most important wine producing regions and includes several distinct appellations. Many wine tours take you to wine cellars (adegas) where some of the best known Ribatejo wines are made and provide a good introduction to the various grape varieties grown and the wine making techniques used. Santarem is also considered a popular choice amongst golfers as there are 3 golf courses in the city.

The Ribatejo region has been associated with wine since the days of the Romans. Whites, reds and roses win new admirers year after year and are among the best in Portugal. Try the wines. Try the regional cooking. Savour verdant countryside and cool rivers. Feel the warmth and sincerity of Ribatejo hospitality. The doors of their wine-cellars are open to welcome you….