Marble & Cork Experience

from 430€ | 1 to 3px | 10h

Did you know that marble is composed of calcium, which is why it can be found in some food supplements and even toothpaste? And that Portugal is one of the main and largest producers of ornamental stone in the world?
Put on your helmet and come and discover Alentejo's "White Gold"!
And while we're in the Alentejo, let's take the opportunity to get to know another natural product that's no less incredible - cork! Come with us on a journey to discover two wonders of nature, an experience you won't forget!

Starting Point
Lisbon or surrounding area
Average Duration
10h (Full day)
Difficulty Level
Low
Course Type
Industrial and cultural
Recommended Season
All year round

Included in the experience

1-day Private Tour (10h)

  • Pick-up from accommodation or agreed location in Lisbon or surrounding area
  • Private transportation in a Mercedes SUV with air conditioning and panoramic roof
  • Driver + Local guide + Photographer
  • Mobile photography (iPhone capture and Lightroom editing)
  • PRO pack with Canon equipment available as an option (+150€)
  • Guided tour of the Marble Route (morning or afternoon)
  • Guided tour of the cork processing plant (morning or afternoon)
  • All fuel, parking and toll costs
  • Wi-Fi on board
  • Bottle of mineral water/px
  • Tasting convent sweets from Alentejo
  • Drop-off at accommodation or agreed location in Lisbon or surrounding area

Course

  • Departure for Vila Viçosa in the Alentejo (approx. 2h)
  • Arrival at the headquarters of the Marble Route: welcome and introduction to the world of Estremoz Anticlinal Marble with an expert guide. The visit continues in a quarry where we can follow the process of extracting the rock in a spectacular and unique setting! Then it's time to go to a factory to see the transformation stage where the marble is given its final shape before being applied or sent to the market to be sold.
  • Lunch at a restaurant serving regional Alentejo cuisine (not included)
  • Departure from Vila Viçosa to Azaruja, where we will visit a cork reception and processing unit, which has a store where you can buy items made from this material.
  • Back to Lisbon

→ this is just one of the plans for the day but it can be completely adjusted according to your interests!

→ Alternatively, if you want to continue your discovery of the Alentejo, you can extend your visit to the cities of ÉVORA and ESTREMOZ or to towns such as MONSARAZ or ARRAIOLOS, among others. There's plenty of food, wine and olive oil waiting for you!

What should I carry?

  • Practical clothing, hat and proper footwear (resistant, comfortable and closed)
  • On the Marble Route: follow the instructions given by the route guide and wear the protective equipment provided (helmet and vest).
  • Cell phone / camera for amazing photos!
Clean & Safe
Safe travels