Evora: Cromlech of Almendres and Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro

If you’re into ancient history, or just love wandering through sites that let you step back into prehistory, this guided tour from Évora might be right up your alley. It promises a relaxed three-hour journey through one of Iberia’s most impressive megalithic complexes, with visits to the Cromlech of Almendres — one of the biggest stone circles in the region — and the Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro, a monumental burial chamber dating back thousands of years.

What’s great about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides really make the history come alive, sharing insights that make these ancient sites more meaningful. Second, the scenic Alentejo landscape provides a peaceful backdrop for the tour, making it not just educational but also a lovely escape into nature. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users, so keep that in mind if you need accessible options.

This tour works best for travelers who appreciate history, enjoy a bit of hiking, and want a comfortable, guided way to see some of Portugal’s oldest monuments without fussing over transport. It’s perfect if you’re staying in Évora or Montemor and want to add a touch of prehistoric intrigue to your trip.

This experience made our article of Which Evora Tours To Choose? Our Best 15 Picks.

Key Points

• Educational and scenic: Combines history with relaxing countryside views.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and passion.
• Convenient transport: Round-trip pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Affordable price: At $34, it offers good value for a focused half-day experience.
• Limited mobility access: Not suitable for those with mobility restrictions.
• Family-friendly? While not explicitly designed for children, it’s more suited for curious adults and older kids interested in history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour begins with a pick-up at a location you choose—either in Montemor-o-Novo or Évora. This flexibility is nice because it saves you from navigating unfamiliar roads or public transport. The round-trip transportation included in the price simplifies the day, especially if you’re traveling from a central point in the region or staying locally.

The Cromlech of Almendres: An Ancient Wonder

Your first stop is at the Cromlech of Almendres, one of the largest and oldest megalithic sites in the Iberian Peninsula. It’s a sprawling stone circle, with hundreds of standing stones arranged in circular formations, some dating back to the Middle Neolithic or Early Chalcolithic periods—around 6000 years ago.

From reviews, we learn that the guides bring the site to life with stories and explanations about its purpose. Leah mentions, “Excellent guides and stunning megaliths. They went out of their way to accommodate us. We had to do two tours in one day because we booked the wrong day for one. They changed the order and even took us to their parents’ restaurant for a meal—fabulous.” That kind of flexibility and personal touch is what makes this tour stand out.

While walking through the site, you’ll get a chance to marvel at the size and placement of the stones, imagining how prehistoric communities might have used the site for rituals or gatherings. The open-air setting offers fantastic light and space, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

The Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro: A Neolithic Tomb

Next, the tour visits the Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro, a massive prehistoric burial chamber built from enormous stones. This site, dating back to the Neolithic period, provides insight into early human efforts at monument-building and funerary practices.

Here, guides explain the construction process and the cultural significance of these monuments. As Margaret notes, “We had a lovely hike to see the standing stones and dolmen. The countryside was beautiful, and it was fantastic to see these sites. Pedro even incorporated a stop to see stork nests, which added a local touch.” This shows the guides’ ability to personalize the experience and keep it engaging.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Scenic Journey

One of the understated delights of this tour is the drive through Alentejo’s gentle landscapes. Rolling hills, olive groves, and traditional villages set a calm, picturesque tone. It’s a relaxing way to break up the walk and gives you a sense of how these ancient sites are woven into the natural environment.

Duration and Pacing

With a total of about three hours, including transportation, the tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and not feeling rushed. The stops are around 30 minutes each, which is enough to explore without fatigue. This is especially ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a leisurely pace.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $34 per person, you get pick-up and drop-off, guided visits to both sites, and insightful commentary. It’s a straightforward package that makes the experience hassle-free. However, meals, drinks, and personal expenses are not included, so plan to bring some water and maybe a snack or two. It’s also worth noting that you should wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat and sunscreen, and have a camera ready for all those photo moments.

Accessibility and Suitability

A key point to consider is that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Given the outdoor nature and walking involved, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on uneven ground and walking for some stretches.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

At just $34, this tour offers a surprisingly rich glimpse into Portugal’s ancient past. The combination of well-informed guides, scenic setting, and the chance to stand among monuments thousands of years old makes it a compelling choice for history buffs or curious travelers.

The positive reviews emphasize how guides like Pedro and Thelma enhance the experience with their local knowledge and friendly approach. If you’re someone who appreciates stories behind the stones and enjoys gentle walks in the countryside, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

On the downside, it’s not suited for those with mobility issues, and the focus is quite narrow—if you’re looking for a full-day excursion or a deep dive into broader regional history, this might feel limited. But for a half-day, focused exploration of two of the area’s most significant megalithic sites, it hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re visiting Évora or Montemor and want to add a touch of prehistoric mystery to your trip. History enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, or those wanting an easy, guided way to see some of Portugal’s earliest monuments will find it especially worthwhile.

If you’re traveling with family or older children interested in ancient history and don’t require accessible facilities, it can be a memorable outing. However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or need accommodations for mobility issues, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your selected pick-up point in Montemor-o-Novo or Évora is included, making it easy to focus on enjoying the sites.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts about 3 hours, including travel time, with approximately 30-minute stops at each site.

What should I bring?
It’s best to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera to capture the scenic views and ancient monuments.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can check availability and reserve in advance. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, giving you flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it could be suitable for older children interested in history. Keep in mind the walking involved and lack of accessibility for mobility-impaired travelers.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $34 per person, which is quite reasonable for guided visits and transportation.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You might consider bringing some snacks or planning to dine after the tour.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Portuguese, so check availability if you prefer a specific language.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
The tour is fairly structured, but guides like Pedro and Thelma are praised for their willingness to personalize stops or incorporate local sights, such as stork nests.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
Unfortunately, no. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

If you’re eager to combine a bit of ancient history with scenic countryside and expert storytelling, this tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Portugal’s prehistoric heritage. Just remember to prepare for some walking, bring your camera, and enjoy the peaceful vibe of Alentejo’s open landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: