I’ve visited Portugal over a dozen times. It’s amazing, but there’s just one underrated region I keep going back to.

For some dozen years, I’ve made a point to visit Portugal often, from the mainland to its islands.

I’ve traveled in all four seasons to big cities and small villages alike — but, rather than battling the throngs that crowd the streets of Lisbon and Porto, I always find myself revisiting the Alentejo region.

Don’t get me wrong: I love all of Portugal, but I have a soft spot for the Alentejo’s stunning landscape, which encompasses vineyards, wall-enclosed hilltop villages, forests, and olive groves.

Stretching from the Atlantic coast to the Spanish border, Alentejo is also the largest province in Portugal, so it’s no easy feat to narrow down the best things to do and see there.

These are a few of the landmarks, villages, and sites that I keep coming back to, again and again.

The Alqueva Lake is the largest man-made lake in Western Europe — and there’s loads to do nearby.

This vast, man-made reservoir is absolutely breathtaking, with tons of hidden bays and inlets.

The picturesque Amieira River Beach is perfect for sitting in the sun, whether on the sand or in the adjacent grassy lawns. Overlooking the Alqueva, the nearby Amieira Marina has kayaks and paddle boards for rent.

When I visit, I usually stay at the Montimerso SkyScape Country House, which is just 30 minutes from the beach and offers stunning views of the lake.

Moura is a small city that features charming, narrow streets of white-washed homes.

South of the Alequeva Lake, you’ll find the small, charming city of Moura.

I absolutely love walking along the tight network of narrow streets lined with low-slung, white-washed houses, many ornamented with colorful flower pots.

In my opinion, however, the best part of this town is the Jardim Doutor Santiago, a bucolic garden located near a historic castle. My favorite spot is a fern-laden alcove where a fine cascade of water (from the castle’s spring) drizzles over the foliage.

Locals often gravitate to the many benches set among the foliage, which includes umbrella palms, western redbuds, roses, and other vibrant flowers.

The real highlight is the stellar view of the vast surrounding agricultural lands bedecked with olive trees — in the distance, you can even spot the Alqueva dam.

Quinta do Quetzal is a gorgeous estate that includes a restaurant, art center, and vineyard views.

Whenever I’m itching for a mix of unique art, delicious food, and quality wine, I head to Quinta do Quetzal, which houses an art center and restaurant.

The petite gallery on-site always offers something surprising, whether it’s the theme, materials, or subject matter. The last time I visited, I saw an exhibition inspired by the philosopher Baruch Spinoza.

The airy restaurant has incredible views of neat rows of vines climbing a hill topped with pine trees. Whether sipping a well-crafted wine, digging into succulent roasted octopus, or indulging in a textured chocolate dessert, this spot is a sensory delight.

The Comporta area is home to seven delightful villages.

In my opinion, the Herdade da Comporta region is most dreamy in the spring or early fall, when the temperatures are mild and the beach crowds have thinned.

Located on the coast of Portugal, it’s a little further from some of the other towns and sights in the Alentejo, but I typically choose to stay here and travel inland.

Comporta is comprised of seven villages, and each has its own charm. In the village of Pego, the sand dunes feature gorgeous, colorful wildflowers. Meanwhile, in Carvalhal, surfers can take advantage of the turbulent turquoise waters.

My favorite thing to do, though, is visit the neighborhood of Carrasqueira and meander along the narrow, zig-zagging wooden jetties set on stilts in the harbor.

The sunrises and sunsets here are Instagram-worthy, too.

I love hiking and visiting the beaches in Porto Covo.

An atmospheric, 12-mile path called the Fisherman’s Trail — mostly along the soaring clifftops — connects two low-key coastal towns: Vila Nova de Milfontes and Porto Covo.

During the spring or early fall, this route is my favorite day hike in the area. It’s imbued with natural beauty: the crashing of waves, the sandy views, the fragrance of juniper and maritime pines, and all the blossoms.

Porto Covo has several beautiful, serene beaches, but my favorite is Buizinhos, located very close to the trailhead.

I can’t think of a better way to end a day of active adventure than lounging around, taking in the view of the crystal-clear waters, and inhaling the salt air.

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