Beja

Beja, the city, has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and is famous for its hot climate. The highest record is 45.5 °C (114 °F), recorded in August 2003, so it is not for the faint-hearted. Hot winds blow across the flat plains surrounding the City for much of the year.

Beja was formally the capital of the Lower Alentejo region in the 1st century, however, Beja the name was only declared during the invasion of the Moors in the 8th century. The City is set in a stunning location with a beautiful 14th century Castle that is home to the tallest tower in the Iberian Peninsula. Beware the climb to the top though, the 100 stairs are challenging to say the least. Once at the summit the view from the top is worth it though, a spectacular panoramic view of Beja awaits, so visiting Beja castle is an absolute must. 

To be honest there is not a lot to do in Beja as it is not a big city and certainly can’t be described as bustling. It's more a place to visit for a tranquil weekend break where the must-see attractions are the Castelo de Beja, the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, the Hospital da Misericórdia, the Núcleo Museológico da Rua do Sembrano, the Pelourinho de Beja, the Ruínas Romanas de Pisões and the Museum Jorge Vieira. 

If you are looking for something a little more adventurous checkout Emotion Portugal. These thrill-seeking guys know how to party and can provide anything from off-road 4x4 treks, paintballing, birdwatching, kayaking or even hot air ballooning. A great way to discover the Alentejo and to experience just how vast it really is.

If it’s the coast you are after then a visit to Praia do Carvalhal, Praia das Furnas, Praia da Patacho, or Cape Sardão would probably tick most of the boxes for the sea-loving types and if you are foodies the restaurant Dom Dinis, situated just outside the castle walls is the place to dine if you are meat lovers. The steaks here are some of the best I’ve eaten in Portugal. It’s dry-aged Angus and it simply melts in your mouth. 

What Beja lacks in facilities it certainly makes up for with culture. Overall a wonderful city steeped in history and should be a must-visit when visiting the Alentejo.