Avis

In the north of Alentejo, among forests of an unending horizon, somewhere the village of Avis of ancient origins and full of history can be found. Despite not having a consensual origin, on which some authors believe it to have a link to the Avis Order, others instead think that the genesis of the village happened thanks to megalithic monuments. What is known for sure is that the Order of Avis, of military nature and which exercised a strong influence on the local population in such a way that the creation of other religious bodies was not allowed, since it would imply the loss of assets and rights, is one of the maximum exponents of the village's legacy. Avis has kept its most characteristic layout, with medium-sized clusters formed in the vicinity of the main watercourses – Ribeira de Sede and its tributaries, Ribeira de Avis and Albufeira do Maranhão. Nowadays those arriving at Avis face a picturesque and modest village, with narrow and steep streets and with the traditional white houses with blue or yellow edges. Agriculture and cattle raising are the main economic activities; the industry has little importance. Fairs and festivals, pilgrimages, exhibitions and gastronomy events, folklore, music, theater, photography, handicrafts and paintings, not forgetting the outdoor activities, happen throughout the year. In gastronomy there are famous soups (purslane and mint soups), asparagus, tomato or crumb migas gatas (kind of bread mash) and game dishes. The cavacas de Avis (sweets made with eggs and brandy) make up the rest of the meal. Avis - Tree, Vine, Church, Sun. These are the four words that summarize its toponym and that wish to be the municipality's welcome card.

What to do in Avis

Travel Guide

Up to date tourist information about the city's top attractions

The Best River Beaches in Southern Portugal

In the deep Alentejo and the Algarve, there are freshwater beaches that are a true balm for body and soul.

Where to eat in Avis

Where to sleep in Avis

Herdade da Cortesia
Herdade da Cortesia

4 star

Magnificent Hotel, with an avant-garde design which nevertheless fits perfectly into the landscape of Alentejo. Opened at the beginning of 2009, this is the fi…

Casa da Moira
Casa da Moira

Situada no centro histórico de Avis, surge da remodelação de uma casa nobre alentejana do século XVII. Caracterizada por um estilo “happy-chique”, proporciona …

Monte de Pêro Viegas
Monte de Pêro Viegas

Magnificent French style house, integrated in a monte alentejano, into an extensive and abundant hunting reserve. The time can be filled with activities that t…

Near Avis

Ponte de Sor

Ponte de Sor


With an area that exceeds 800 square kilometers, Ponte de Sor is the largest municipality in the Portalegre district. The town's toponym is due to th…

Alter do Chão

Alter do Chão


Located in Alto Alentejo, the quiet Alentejo village of Alter do Chão is part of the Portalegre district. Its origin is closely linked to a Roman set…

Gavião

Gavião


The municipality of Gavião belongs to the district of Portalegre, in the North of Alentejo, at the confluence of the Alentejo with Ribatejo and Beira…

Castelo de Vide

Castelo de Vide


Castelo de Vide is a picturesque village belonging to the district of Portalegre, with an ancient past, with origins at the top of an elevation in th…