Évora: Cork Factory and Wine Tasting Tour (From Lisbon)

Évora, a picturesque city in Portugal, beckons travelers with its cork factory and wine tasting tour. This 7-hour excursion from Lisbon offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Visitors will explore the intricate process of cork production, followed by a delightful wine-tasting experience, all while learning about Évora’s captivating cultural history. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic Portuguese adventure, this tour promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the country’s artisanal traditions.

Good To Know

• 7-hour tour from Lisbon, Setúbal, Almada, or Sesimbra to Évora District, including a guided cork factory tour and wine tasting session.
• Visitors learn about the cork production process, sustainability, and applications, with one hour allocated for exploration.
• Wine tasting session highlights the unique terroir and production methods of three regional wines at a local winery.
• Tour may be challenging for individuals with mobility impairments due to walking on uneven ground and navigating stairs or inclines.
• Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and hydration are recommended for the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Tour Overview provides a comprehensive look at the 7-hour Évora Cork Factory and Wine Tasting tour.

A comprehensive look at the 7-hour Évora Cork Factory and Wine Tasting tour.

Priced from $233.39 per person, the tour departs from Lisbon, Setúbal, Almada, or Sesimbra. Guests will travel 1.5 hours to the Évora District, where they’ll tour a cork factory and local winery.

The itinerary includes a guided cork factory tour, wine tasting session, and return trip to Lisbon. Highlights include learning about cork production, tasting three regional wines, and discovering Évora’s cultural heritage.

Hotel pickup and drop-off, a private guide/driver, and the factory/winery tours are included. Comfortable attire and participants 18+ for wine tasting are required.

Itinerary

Starting from Lisbon, the tour travels to the Évora District, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours by car.

Upon arrival, you will:

1. Set out on a guided tour of a cork factory, learning about cork production techniques and the harvesting of cork oak bark.

2. Visit a local winery for a wine tasting session, sampling three regional wines.

3. Spend one hour exploring the cork factory and one hour at the winery.

4. Finally, the tour returns to Lisbon, a trip that takes another 1.5 hours.

Cork Production Process

At the cork factory, visitors get a firsthand look at the intricate process of cork production.

First, the cork oak trees are carefully harvested, with the bark gently stripped from the trunks. The thick, rugged layers are then boiled, cleaned, and sorted based on quality.

Next, the corks are punched from the sheets of cork, shaped, and treated to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides explain the history, sustainability, and diverse applications of this remarkable natural material.

Visitors gain a newfound appreciation for the skilled craftsmanship behind each cork stopper.

Harvesting Cork Oak Bark

Skilled workers carefully scale the cork oak trees, wielding sharp knives to delicately peel off the thick, rugged bark.

The harvesting process involves:

1. Assessing the tree’s maturity, which typically takes 9-12 years before the first stripping.

2. Making vertical and horizontal incisions to loosen the bark.

3. Carefully removing the bark in large, intact sheets to minimize damage.

4. Transporting the harvested cork to the factory for further processing.

This delicate, labor-intensive practice ensures a sustainable and renewable supply of high-quality cork, a crucial step in the production of cork products.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wine Tasting Experience

After exploring the fascinating process of cork harvesting, the tour then shifts its focus to the area’s renowned wine culture.

Guests visit a local winery where they’ll sample three regional wines. The wine tasting session provides an opportunity to learn about the unique terroir and production methods that contribute to the complex flavors of Alentejo wines.

Guests visit a local winery to sample three regional wines and learn about the unique terroir and production methods of Alentejo wines.

With guidance from the knowledgeable guide, participants discover the nuances between the different varietals and vintages.

This wine experience complements the earlier cork factory tour, offering a well-rounded appreciation of Évora’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Évora’s Cultural Heritage

Évora’s cultural heritage is deeply woven into the fabric of the historic city, with its well-preserved Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and Moorish influences harmoniously coexisting.

Visitors can explore:

1. The ancient Roman Temple of Diana, a remarkably well-preserved temple dating back to the 1st century AD.

2. The Sé de Évora, a magnificent Gothic cathedral built in the 12th century, featuring intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows.

3. The Capela dos Ossos, a chapel decorated with the bones and skulls of over 5,000 people, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience.

4. The Praça do Giraldo, the vibrant central square lined with charming cafes and historic buildings.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private tour guide/driver, a guided cork factory tour, and a wine tasting session.

However, meals and gratuities aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour is suitable for adults aged 18 and above, as the wine tasting is restricted to those of legal drinking age.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and bring sunscreen and water.

The tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Important Considerations

While the tour is generally accessible, participants with mobility impairments or wheelchair users may find the experience challenging.

Participants with mobility issues or wheelchair users may find this tour challenging.

The itinerary involves:

1. Walking on uneven ground during the cork factory tour.

2. Navigating stairs or inclines at the winery.

3. Spending extended periods on your feet.

4. Traveling in a private vehicle for up to 1.5 hours each way.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and stay hydrated.

Participants must be 18 or older to participate in the wine tasting. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Children on the Tour?

No, children cannot join this tour as it’s not suitable for them. The tour is intended for participants aged 18 and above due to the wine tasting activity included in the itinerary.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible. The important information states it’s "not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users." Participants will need to be able to navigate the cork factory and winery.

Can I Request a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour can be arranged as a private tour. According to the information provided, the tour is a private tour with a private guide/driver, so customers can request a private tour for their group.

Is Photography Allowed During the Factory Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos during the cork factory tour, though they may be asked to avoid certain areas for safety or privacy reasons. It’s best to check with the tour guide beforehand.

Do I Need to Pay a Deposit to Book the Tour?

No, a deposit is not required to book the tour. Customers can pay the full amount at the time of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, according to the tour information provided.

The Sum Up

Discover the charm of Évora on this immersive tour. Explore the intricate cork production process and savor the flavors of regional wines. This excursion offers a unique blend of Portuguese heritage and tradition, perfect for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a captivating cultural experience. With its scenic journey and engaging activities, this tour provides a memorable insight into Évora’s rich history and vibrant winemaking legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: