Wine Not – Algarve Winery Tour

If you’re eyeing a way to experience Portugal’s vibrant wine scene without the fuss of multiple days or overly commercialized tours, the Wine Not Algarve Winery Tour might be just what you’re after. This 5-hour journey takes you through some of the region’s most beautiful vineyards, paired with a charming picnic and a chance to soak in the scenery along the way.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances wine tasting and scenic relaxation—you get a good taste of Algarve’s wine culture without feeling rushed. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to genuinely love sharing their insights, adding a layer of authenticity to the trip. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include wine tastings at the final winery, Quinta dos Vales, which might be a disappointment if you’re eager to sample more wines there.

All in all, this tour is well-suited for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those who enjoy a laid-back day surrounded by nature. If you’re looking for a way to break from the beach or city sightseeing and indulge in some quality local wines, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Balanced experience: Combines wine tastings, a picnic, and scenic stops.
• Expert guides: Known for sharing passionate insights about the region and wines.
• Beautiful locations: From boutique vineyards to the peaceful Sitio das Fontes.
• Good value: $83 covers tastings, lunch, and transportation, with many reviewers appreciating the overall quality.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 8) mean more personalized attention.
• Not suitable for children under 10: Designed for adult wine lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Algarve Winery Tour

When considering a tour like this, it’s important to understand what makes it stand out and what might not quite fit your travel style. We’ll go step-by-step through what you can expect to make sure it aligns with what you’re after.

Starting Point: JAH SHAKA SURF SHOP

The tour kicks off from this lively location, which is conveniently central if you’re staying nearby. The pick-up is often organized in advance, which is a plus, especially if you prefer a hassle-free start. From there, you’ll hop into a comfy Ford Transit van, which is praised for having good air conditioning, music, and space for snacks and drinks.

The Journey and the First Winery: Quinta do Francês

The drive to your first stop, Quinta do Francês, is about 30 minutes, giving you time to relax and get excited about the day ahead. This boutique winery is popular for its sustainable practices and top-notch wines. As you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by friendly staff eager to share their passion.

A highlight here is the three wine tastings, with descriptions provided by the sommelier. Reviewers mention that the wines are delightful and well paired with the local stories shared by guides. One review even states, “The guide’s knowledge made the tasting even more interesting.” If you’re into wine or even just curious about local production, this stop is a real treat.

Scenic Picnic at Sitio das Fontes

Next, you’ll head to Sitio das Fontes—a spot that seems to impress visitors for its tranquility and natural beauty. This is where you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch featuring fresh bread, ham, chorizo, hummus, salads, fruit, and chocolate—simple but satisfying fare that’s perfect for refueling.

A nice touch is that you’re encouraged to bring swimsuits if you want to take a dip in the river or try the inflatable kayaks that are available for an extra adventure. The reviews note that the environment here is peaceful, ideal for relaxing or a quick swim, making it a great break from the winery visits.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Quinta dos Vales

Your final stop is Quinta dos Vales, which is often described as the most spectacular winery of the day. It’s not just about the wines here—though they have award-winning options—you’ll also enjoy walking through the landscaped vineyards and viewing the outdoor sculptures that decorate the estate.

Although wine tastings at Quinta dos Vales are not included in the standard package, for an additional cost, you can indulge in more tastings and further explore this artistic and scenic estate. Many reviews mention the stunning views and the impressive outdoor art as highlights.

The Return Journey

After a full day of wine, scenery, and good company, you’ll head back to the starting point, JAH SHAKA SURF SHOP. Most participants find the return journey relaxing, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy some snacks and drinks provided by the tour.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the $83 price tag. Here’s what’s included:

• Drinks: Beer, wine, sangria, juice, and water
• Lunch: A simple, fresh picnic with bread, ham, chorizo, hummus, salad, fruit, and chocolate
• Private pickup (if pre-arranged)
• Comfort in a spacious, air-conditioned van
• Inflatable kayaks for water fun (at Sitio das Fontes)

Things to note:
– Wine tastings at Quinta dos Vales are not included, so if you’re eager for more wine, be prepared to pay extra.
– The tour is around 5 hours long, so plan accordingly—this is a relaxed pace but still a full half-day outing.
– It’s geared towards adults, especially wine lovers; children under 10 aren’t suitable.
– The group size is small (up to 8), providing a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

The Value of the Experience

At about $83, considering the tastings, scenic stops, lunch, and transport, most reviews agree this is fair value. The authentic guides and beautiful locations elevate the experience, making it feel less like a commercial tour and more like a local adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a great pick for those wanting a relaxed, wine-focused day in Algarve, especially if you enjoy scenic drives and outdoor stops. It’s particularly suitable for couples, friends, or small groups who appreciate good wine, beautiful views, and a bit of nature.

If you’re someone who prefers to pack in as many winery visits as possible or is after a more intense tasting tour, this might feel a little light on the wine compared to others. However, for a balanced mix of wine, scenery, and casual exploration, it hits the mark.

FAQs About the Algarve Winery Tour

Is transportation provided? Yes, the tour includes comfy transfers in a large Ford Transit van, with air conditioning and music to keep everyone comfortable.

Can I bring children? No, this experience isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old, as it’s focused on wine tasting and a relaxing adult environment.

What’s included in the price? You get drinks (beer, wine, sangria, juice, water), a picnic lunch, private pickup if arranged, and the use of inflatable kayaks at Sitio das Fontes.

Are the wine tastings at Quinta dos Vales included? No, tastings there are optional and at an additional cost.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for someone with mobility issues? The itinerary involves some walking and outdoor stops, so mobility considerations should be taken into account.

What language is the tour guided in? The tour is guided in English by knowledgeable hosts.

Can I do this tour if I don’t drink alcohol? Yes, there are non-alcoholic drinks like juice and water available throughout the day.

Is this tour family-friendly? Not really, as it’s geared toward adults who appreciate wine and outdoor exploration.

How do I cancel if my plans change? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic day that combines the pleasures of wine tasting and nature, the Wine Not Algarve Winery Tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy learning about local wines without feeling overwhelmed by too many stops or tastings. The small-group setting and friendly guides add a personal touch that many travelers value.

While it might not satisfy heavy wine tasters looking for extensive tastings or those wanting to explore multiple wineries deeply, it hits the sweet spot for casual wine lovers and curious travelers alike. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, and the environment is relaxed, making it an excellent way to enjoy the Algarve’s wine and countryside for a fair price.

If you’re seeking a balance of culture, scenery, and good company, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to bring your swimsuit if you want to take advantage of the outdoor water activities—you might find it a memorable highlight of your day.

You can check availability for your dates here: