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Winter in the Alentejo is not a season of retreat — it is an invitation. While much of Europe wraps itself in cold and haste, the Alentejo slows down, warms up, and opens its doors to travellers seeking depth, calm, and genuine connection. With mild temperatures, vast horizons, and a rhythm that honours time rather than races against it, winter becomes one of the most rewarding moments to explore this region. A Season Made for Slow Living Winter in Baixo-Alentejo Inland is gentle. Days unfold under soft sunlight, perfect for wandering through ​sleepy vineyards, historic villages, and open landscapes without the intensity of summer heat. This is the season when the region’s true character reveals itself — unhurried, grounded, and deeply human. Here, slow living is not a trend . It is a cultural inheritance. Conversations linger. Meals stretch into the afternoon. The land dictates the pace, and visitors quickly learn to follow it. The Heart of Tradition: Talha Wine & Vidigueira No winter journey through the Alentejo is complete without stepping into the world of Talha ​ Wine . In villages like Vila de Frades, Vila Alva, Vidigueira and ​Cuba , producers continue a 2,000‑year‑old Roman method of fermenting wine in clay amphorae — the iconic talhas .​ Visiting these cellars in winter is a privilege. The air carries the earthy scent of clay and fermenting must. Producers welcome guests with stories, generosity, and wines that taste of heritage, landscape, and time itself. This is authenticity in its purest form. Vidigueira region is really a sun‑kissed cradle of truly unique wines and not only Talha . Here, warm days and cool Atlantic breezes shape grapes with remarkable character. Antão Vaz , the region’s signature white variety, finds its purest expression in these soils. Centuries of tradition live on in talha wines, still crafted in ancient clay vessels. Vineyards stretch across gentle hills, carrying the quiet rhythm of the Alentejo. Every glass reveals a landscape of authenticity, depth, and timeless craft. Vidigueira is not just a wine region — it is the beating heart of Alentejo’s soul. Gastronomy That Warms the Soul Winter amplifies the flavours of Baixo-Alentejo Inland. Think of: Açorda Alentejana ​ (Alentejo Wheat Bread Slices, Coriander, Cod, Egg)  a comforting broth steaming with garlic and olive oil. Ensopado de Borrego ​ à Pastor (Lamb Stew Shepherd Style)  slow‑cooked to tenderness. Migas​ (Fried Bread Mash) and ​tasteful juicy Black-Pork Meat. Cozido de Grão (Chick-Pea Stew with Pork Sausages and pork meat) with the fragrance of Mint fresh leafs. Fresh bread, preserved green olive​s, Extra-Virgin Organic Olive-Oil, PDO Serpa cured Sheep Cheese, Black-Pork Cured Ham and ​ Talha wine , simple flavours served as they have been for generations. Meals are not simply eaten here — they are experienced, shared, and remembered. Villages Where Time Moves Differently The ​Baixo-Alentejo’s historic villages are winter jewels, each with its own quiet charm: Serpa — whitewashed streets, medieval walls, and the sound of traditional cante . Moura — olive groves stretching to the horizon and a castle overlooking the plains. Vidigueira — birthplace of talha wine and gateway to the region’s winemaking soul. Vila de Frades — the capital of Vinho de Talha , where amphorae line ancient cellars. Vila Alva — intimate, authentic, and deeply connected to ancestral wine traditions. Alvito — a serene blend of manor houses, convents, and timeless Alentejo serenity. Beja "Pax Julia"— the ancient city rising above the plains, rich in Roman and medieval heritage. ​ Mértola - a hilltop riverside village where layers of Moorish, Roman, and medieval ​roots meet in a serene Alentejo landscape. Walking through these places in winter feels like entering a living museum — but one where life continues at a gentle, welcoming pace. Nature and Adventure in the Quiet Season Winter is also the perfect time to explore the region’s natural beauty. The Alqueva ​Great Lake , Europe’s largest artificial lake, becomes a playground for peaceful adventure: Kayaking Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) Canoeing The water is calm, the landscapes wide, and the silence restorative. For those who prefer land, the region offers endless opportunities for: Hiking and long walks Trail running Winter training in open, inspiring landscapes The mild climate makes outdoor activity not only possible, but deeply enjoyable. A Haven for Remote Work Winter in​ Baixo-Alentejo​ Inland  is also ideal for those seeking remote work with quality of life . The region offers: Quiet environments Reliable connectivity Inspiring scenery Time — the rarest luxury Working from th​is beautiful region in winter means balancing productivity with presence, focus with wellbeing. Why Winter Slow Travel Matters Slow travel in Baixo-Alentejo Inland, Portugal, is not about doing less — it is about experiencing more. More authenticity. More connection. More meaning. Winter strips away the noise and leaves only what is essential: the land, the people, the flavours, and the stories that make this region unforgettable. For travellers seeking depth rather than speed, the Alentejo in winter is not just a destination. It is a way of being. And our accommodation becomes the perfect base to live that rhythm — a quiet home from which to explore slow living, taste talha wines, savour local gastronomy, wander through historic villages, work remotely with clarity, reconnect with nature, and embrace outdoor adventures across the Baixo Alentejo Interior. For travellers seeking depth rather than speed, Baixo-Alentejo Inland in winter is not just a destination. It is a way of being. #burricodorada #slowtravel #wintertravel #remotework #naturelovers #ecotravel #ruralstays #slowfood #winetravel #wintergetaway #authenticportugal #visitalentejo #visitportugal

11 de Maio 2021 The day had just dawned, but I couldn't sleep anymore. School holidays had already started for almost 2 months, but the August heat reminded me that it was time to go to Monte dos Avós. I had arrived last week on the train with Nuno, had left Vilar da Lapa behind and after 3 weeks, Grandfather João had taken us to the Barca da Amieira Station – the farnel in the basket that Grandma Jesus had prepared for the Journey...Dark Cake, Broinhas and the bottle of Lemonade nestled on the edge of the bag to drink on the journey. I heard the train whistle waving in the distance, it was time to go to Lisbon, Dad or Uncle Zé would be waiting for us in Santa Apolónia. Behind were weeks of hiking in the mountains, building tents for Indians, playing cards in the afternoon to escape the siesta and the heat, reading books by Os Cinco, bathing in the tank in the village and pampering the Grandma Jesus and the cousins. Vacations never ended at that time, and the bag was ready again. Father was going to take me to Casal Ribeiro that Sunday afternoon, he took the snack that Mother had prepared and I already knew that Sr. Reboxo, the usual driver, was waiting for me in the Bus that was going to Moura. At the age of 9, I was no longer afraid, these trips were an adventure, I loved spending my holidays between Beira-Baixa and Baixo-Alentejo. And now, it was time to head south. After 3 hours on the way, with a stop in Évora, I finally arrived at my destination. Aunt Leonor was already waiting for me with Uncle Jorge, and I immediately knew that I would be staying in town for a few more days, enjoying the company of my cousins and bathing in Piscina de Moura. The Grandparents had already called, they wanted to pick me up in the van with the Mule, but the Aunt insisted: _” Oh, mother, she just got here, let her stay a few days!” And it was, each one "fought" to say what he felt. I laughed about it all, I always ended up spending a few nights in Moura, the day spent by the pool or in the cool of the uncles' house and at night, there we would go for a little stroll to the Garden and the Square. Summer at night in Alentejo is right outside. Fresh water, ice cream and even late, it was too hot to sleep. Tia Leonor always made the dishes that I liked, the lamb stew, the lamb with peas, the cottage cheese cake, they were just treats, which I loved! By the end of the week, I already knew it was time to go to Mt. Grandfather Donkey arrived with Grandmother that morning to pick me up. Auntie always sent the bag with the “Eights” and the Cured Sheep Cheese that I loved so much. The Mule had stayed at the Estalagem to eat hay, not far from the Uncle's house, close to Casa Cavalheiro, the Grandparents took the opportunity to do a little shopping - flour for the chicks, barley for the Mare and for the breeding, some Sausages and Orange, which I only drank when I came to visit. It's curious how we remember the flavors and smells of our childhood. Even Grandparents, it's like an eternal cologne that stays ingrained in the Soul, always flooding the eyes from time to time, when it comes to the thought and heart... And in the middle of the morning there we went, in the Grandparents' blue and red wooden van. It was an emotion, I was thrilled to make the way to Monte, even though it took almost 2h30 at a trot, at the leisurely but lilting pace of the Mule, who so faithfully took us back home. Grandmother always put a scarf on my head, because of the sun, like her, and Grandfather with his hat, with a scarf inside against the flies and the heat, his waistcoat and Cordão watch in his pocket. Even with his shirt sleeves rolled up, he whistled and sang all the way, without stopping. I asked if the Mule wasn't already tired, to which my Grandfather replied smiling: "_ No granddaughter, what she likes to go for a walk!" And I sang with him, I looked at the surrounding fields, at that time only strewn with ancient Olive groves, Meloal, Fig trees and Wheat. Upon arrival, he would not stop talking and running from one place to the other, it was time to check out the chickens, if Grandfather had done something new on Monte, if Grandmother had changed the beds, not least because not always I slept in the same room in the iron bed next to theirs, sometimes I also slept on the couch in the sewing room, but I was always happy to be back on that little piece of floor. The days started very early, it was necessary to take advantage of the mornings to feed the turkeys, the chickens, the weaklings, the lambs, the Mule, the chicks and the rabbits. “Grandma do Monte”, as I always called her, would sweep the streets of Monte of the animals' forricas and I would run to put water in the troughs, also because after 12h it was already very hot. There was no running water and many times when we went to fetch it from the well, near the stream, Grandma would take clothes to wash. There was still no dam and, at that time, the river flowed even more freely and pure. I splashed and tried to catch frogs, while Grandma rubbed the clothes on the stones with the Blue and White Soap, everything was fragrant and fresh, even me 😉. The sun was already high, the day before Grandma and I had plucked a chicken, which was now for lunch. She would fry it in pieces in oil and lard that she herself had prepared in the winter from the slaughter of the pig, seasoning it with garlic, salt, bay leaf and nothing else. She ate it with a salad and bread that she had made the previous Saturday. In Monte at that time there was no vegetable garden, just a few small rows, which the Grandparents called crinchoso. Water was a very precious commodity yesterday and today, but in those days there was no intensive cultivation, the land was cultivated with respect, according to the season of the year and I remember that Grandfather respected the fallow land – he cultivated seasonal crops. : Melon, Peas, Broad Beans, Chickpeas, Olives, Figs and some Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumbers and Coriander. Pigs were almost always killed at the beginning of February, meat and bacon were cured and we had sausages, blood sausages, lard, jowls for the whole year in the salt pan. That's how it was, there was no abundance, you prepared what the land provided and in the summer, as there was no refrigerator or freezer, what you ate was prepared on the same day. Sometimes a river fish broth with pennyroyal and mint from the riverside and tomato soup with codfish and egg, which Grandmother bought at Mercearia in Pedrogão, or in Moura. The afternoons were hot and long, as were the nights. After lunch we took a siesta, only the flies could be heard and not a leaf “stirred”, in those August months, I can say that the heat was much heavier than now, that I live here. At the end of the afternoon, it was typical to see Grandma cooking on her pedal machine, while Grandpa sang his songs. Sometimes the pepper milling machine was set up and I used the handle to prepare the pepper paste that Grandma kept in large glass jars. At dusk, the animals were fed and when the sun had already set and the crickets were heard singing, the oil lamps were lit. At that time, there was no heat, just an immense heat, which made us stay up until very late looking at an infinite sky of stars that covered the Mount, and let ourselves be lulled by the singing of the crickets and the songs of Grandpa Donkey, there, in the doorstep, stretched out on top of the blankets, while we waited for dawn to break out again and open the window to a new day. In the summers on the Mount of my childhood, there was always time... Time to look at the golden fields, time to feel the breeze that caressed the olive branches, time to taste the cool water from the clay pitcher, which Grandfather had just filled with water from the well, time to feel the dough of bread and poppies in my hands, in the clay bowl, where two of me could fit, time to talk in the endless hours of summer nights, time to watch Grandpa shave in the middle of Rua do Monte in long underwear, time to wash the dishes in the freshly filled bowl in front of Monte's door, time to open a sweet melon and smear your fingers while grandfather sang, time to hug my Grandparents... now they bless me from the top of Heaven and snuggle me between these new summers, here on the Mount, where we wait for those who visit us, always with soul and heart. Well done, Rita Valadas #burricodorada#rtvaladas#alentejo#portugal#visitalentejo

Monte do Carvalhal, 1 de Dezembro 2020 Monte do Carvalhal, December 1, 2020 The most beautiful time of the year has arrived, at least for me. But in times of so much uncertainty and fragile promises, each one of us tries to live this time with the certainty that Health is, however, the greatest asset we can receive and conserve. It makes no sense to talk about offers or gifts, when the times we are going through also ask us for some restraint in the midst of so many restrictions and confinements. Personally, I don't live Christmas with the intention of acquiring "reams" of offers and gifts for everyone. It's not up to me to judge how everyone lives this season, I just ask that we at least try to buy Christmas souvenirs in Local Commerce, looking above all for what is National, after all, Made in Portugal, it's Good, it's Portuguese. I suggest you look for that this year, avoid what you always buy, the perfumes, the bonbons, the Mobile Phones, the Consoles, the Clothing Vouchers from Store A, B or C, and try to look for Local Producers who try to sell their products in several Stores and Own Spaces in your cities, towns and even online. And why not, if possible, go to some Alentejo Towns or Cities and discover Flavors, Articles made in an Artisan way and help small Entrepreneurs and Artisans? And why not, try to take your own small household this year and discover a Christmas or a few days of vacation outside your city? It is even possible to spend your Christmas Eve in countless Local Accommodations, Rural Tourism and Rural Hotels in our Baixo-Alentejo. Many are already promoting their spaces, just like us, stay tuned! Have you even thought about purchasing your Sweets, Smoked Products, Cheeses, Olive Oils, Wines & Spirits near the Accommodation of your choice?! I know that not everyone will be able to do it, but those who can help small entrepreneurs in the interior, we all thank you from the heart. With my move to Baixo-Alentejo this year, I discovered countless places and products of impeccable quality that you can easily buy in Serpa, Moura, Vidigueira, Vila de Frades, Cuba, Beja. I am remembering, for example, Casa Cavalheiro in Moura, which produce their own Sausages – Sausages, Catalão, Choriça de Carne, Cracklings, Papada, Entremeada, Bacon, Ham, Paleta, delicious ! Not to mention the fantastic cheeses (“DOP SERPA” from Ovelha) from Eira da Vila, Tradiserpa, Requeijão 100Histórias, in Serpa, or from Pacheco Cheesemakers in Cuba, Almocreva or Alcino in Beja, many of them even send to your houses, just find out! And you can always buy our good Alentejo Bread in numerous Bakeries, we even provide it to our Customers daily, until the 25th or 1st of January😉 and we recommend some of the places where Bread is still “Bread”. And as man does not live on Bread alone, in the Land of Olive Oil and Wine, like ours, it would be bad if I did not leave some good references to acquire for sure and, even visit when possible – Olive Oil PDO de Moura, Olive Oil from Vidigueira, Herdade dos Cotéis, Quinta N.Sra. das Neves, but also Biological products from the Serpa area, such as Olival da Risca, and my favorite Herdade da Mingorra and ours, Burrico, this one just for consumption at home, for now 😉. And then the sweets, you ask?! Well, without them, Christmas wouldn't be the same... As well as trying to make known to our Customers what is Local and genuine in our Breakfasts, I myself try to discover and taste some of the sweets in the region, some that they are even very similar to the ones my Grandmother from Monte used to make and until now, I have had few disappointments, that is, my taste buds have not been dissatisfied with each tasting... From Popias, to Oitos, to Borrachos, to Pastelinhos de Gila, to Bolos Folhados and Folhadinhos, to Those with Olive Oil, to Bolos da Amassadura, to Costas, Popias Whitewashed, Almond Tarts, Fogaças, Azevias, come and try the flavors of this little corner of Alentejo, whether in Moura, Brinches, Pedrogão do Alentejo, even at Casa Paixão, in Serpa, famous for its Queijadas, we discover Bolo Rei e Rainha - as in the old and famous Luís da Rocha (also known for his Porquinho Doce, its Trouxas de Ovos, Queijadas de Amêndoa and Pies) in Beja or, the wonderful Conventual Sweets in Maltesinhas and even Bonbons & Artisan Chocolates in Mestre Cacau and, homemade flavors in ArtPão in Beja (for me the best Bread and the best Almond pie). And if you are a Vegetarian, there are savory and sweet options at Sabores do Campo, also in Beja. Come, so you can even order and taste these typical, homemade and yes, authentic flavors on your Christmas Eve, I assure you. There are many other Producers that I have not mentioned, you can also find many of their products for sale in small neighborhood stores or spaces such as Intermarché, in Moura, Serpa & Beja, and many of excellent quality, whether in Confectionery, Bakery, Smokehouse, Meat Black Pork, Cured, Buttery & Fresh Cheeses, Olive Oils and Wines, I buy some myself. And the wine, you ask?! Because, as an Oenophile, and a lover of discovering new nectars, both Wines and Spirits, Liqueurs, Sparkling Wines, the Alentejo is already a Region so rich in Aromas, and also for this reason we build Private Wine Tours from Évora and Beja, We try to make this unique wine region known to all who visit us. Close to Monte, we have fantastic Enoturismos, Wineries of Producers that are worth knowing, tasting and buying not only for the Christmas Supper, but to go discovering whenever you want. They ask which I advise, but I can only say that, if they come, it is worth taking at least 2 days to discover so many treasures: Granja Amareleja, Adega Marel, Monte da Capela, Cortes de Cima, Herdade Grande, Ribafreixo, Adega Cooperativa da Vidigueira , Quinta do Quetzal, Quinta do Paral, Herdade do Rocim, Herdade do Sobroso, Herdade dos Machados, Paço do Conde, Figueirinha, Herdade da Mingorra and much more! And since you're thinking of coming here, think about learning about Talha Wine, which has been made here since Roman times. Take 1 day to learn about its history at the Talha Wine Interpretive Center (Vila de Frades) and taste the saying, I advise Casa das Talhas (ACV) in Vidigueira and in Vila de Frades to Honrado in his Cella Vineria Antiqua, the ACV – Talha wine, Adega do Mestre Daniel (Projecto Talhas XXVI) in Vila Alva or at Quinta da Pigarça in Cuba. Afterwards, visit the Roman Ruins of S.Cucufate, the Convent of Nossa Senhora das Relíquias do Carmo da Vidigueira, the Casa-Museum Quinta da Esperança, there is really a lot to discover this Christmas, New Year, or whenever you want. And don't forget the real Pias Wines, not the ones you can find in the BaginBox at the Supermarket, but the genuine ones, only produced by the Margaça Family and, by the way, if you want to taste it to your teeth, have lunch at Adro in Pias, one of the my favorite restaurants, along with many others here in the area, which I also recommend – O Vermelhudo, O Molho, Retiro do Ernesto - in Moura, O Alentejano and Molhó Bico in Serpa, Adega País das Uvas and Restaurante da Quinta Quetzal in Vila de Frades, or the fantastic Dom Dinis in Beja. But, if you are looking for yet another type of offer, why not consider a Boat Trip on the Great Lake with AlquevaTours, a Canoeing Adventure with AlentejoBreak, a Jeep-Safari from the Medronho Museum, a Balloon Ride with Emotion , or a Wine Tasting Workshop with Burrico D´Orada. See, there's really a lot to do around here!... You can even buy some Experience Offer Vouchers, it's always something no one expects 😉. And if you lack inspiration, try to find out and make known the small Treasures of Local Handicrafts in this Region, Handmade products that, in such a genuine and careful way, seek to preserve the Knowledge of Past Generations and disseminate them in the present and in the future. . Decorative Pieces in Cork, in Buinho, Furniture in Wood from Ferreira do Alentejo, Basketry, Handcrafted Footwear, Beringel Pottery, Alentejo Blankets in Wool, colorful and unique. If you want to have more information, please visit https://cm-beja.pt/pt/2244/artesanato.aspx , discover some of these articles in small Commerce in Serpa, Moura, Vidigueira, Beja, Cuba, Beringel, the Artisans thank you your help. And of course, if you really come, be sure to visit the municipalities of Barrancos, Moura, Serpa, Vidigueira, Cuba, Alvito, Beja, Mértola, Almodôvar, Aljustrel, Ferreira do Alentejo, Castro Verde and Ourique, all of which are an integral part of our Baixo-Alentejo! I could go on listing several reasons for coming and discovering the interior Baixo-Alentejo and making your Christmas different, richer in History, Gastronomy, Culture, but I only leave one request for all of you: _ This Christmas and even in the New Year, buy Local, help small Commerce, Small Entrepreneurs and Artisans, buy Portugal. We all appreciate it. After all, by purchasing Products, Stays, Experiences (Local), you are also helping to maintain the livelihood of many Families, of an entire Community, because the countryside really needs you, today and always. Very grateful. Well done. We are waiting for you, in Baixo-Alentejo. Rita Valadas #rtvaladas #burricodorada #alentejo #bajo-alentejo #vinhosdoalentejo #azeitedoalentejo #lugaresdorio #serpa #moura #vidigueira #viladefrades #beja #vilaalva #cuba #natalnoalentejo #anonovonoalentejo #anonovo #comerciolocal #artesanatodoalentejo #melhoralentejo #alentejolovers #fique_emportugal #compreportugal #cimbal #compreoqueénosso #alojamentolocal #turismorural #porcopreto #vinhosdetalha #artesanatodoalentejo #gastronomiadoAlentejo #cleanandsafe #turismodoalentejo #visitalentejo #turismodeportugal #slowlivng #slowtourism #slowfood #juntospelomundorural

Every year we are reminded of the date of S.Valentim and the need to spend money to celebrate a date, which although important for many, would not need to be remembered, at least for those who make Love something beyond occasional gifts, roses , cards and weekend vouchers. Maybe I shouldn't say this, managing an Accommodation in a rural context, Vouchers would come in handy, or the so-called reservations for this date, now that for many months now, I, like many colleagues in the profession, have had houses without a soul and the windows are always open, so that light does not fail to enter stubbornly empty spaces. But I couldn't stop writing a few words... In such strange, adverse and difficult times, in which many of us spend 95% of our time confined with the ones we love the most, day after day, in the same space, the one that could be a peaceful and serene experience, often becomes a “prison”, an obligation of gestures, in which we accumulate daily stress and anxieties, and in which the task of managing a family cluster of teenagers, children, babies and partners, companions of life, becomes something too demanding and what a nut it makes escape into us. Still... Love... Love, word, gesture, exercise, full awareness or absence of it, promise of life, sharing routines, giving up spaces and paths, complicity, lap, hug, kiss, caress, intimacy, complementarity, priceless and measured gift, mutual help , mutual growth, learning, port of shelter, port of arrival, road, present, path, certainty, 1 instead of 2, Home. We are missing Love, these days when we are screaming inside, when the sadness of unemployment, hunger, despair, impatience, lack of ground, ceiling, warmth, future certainty invades us. The doors were closed, the windows covered, the tears flow that flood the daily deserts of absence of caresses and words of sugar. But don't go Love, stay, I'll leave the windows wide open, I'll stop, open my eyes, smile at you, hug you again and again and whisper in your ear that together we'll overcome all pain. Come on, go live this life more, let's hug each other more, kiss each other more, like someone biting an apple for the first time, let's sip the days together, with more thirst, with more dedication. Stay Love, every day I will feed you with kisses, promises of Hope and Comfort, Dialogue, Passion, Affection. Together we will break the routines that kill us, invade new beautiful places in the heart, break the dawn with full surrender, in our infinite embrace. I don't just want you on S.Valentim, I want you all Love, every day of my life. Even when I feel ugly, empty, desperate, irritated, stupid, crazy, tiny inside my walls, even when I'm old... Stay Love, I promise to celebrate you every day of my life, because you are my reason for to be, to live, to walk hand in hand with you on this Road, without fear and loving you yesterday, today and tomorrow. Celebrate Love, love very, very much and always say: “_I love you, Love.” Because S.Valentim is every day. With love, Rita #rtvaladas#burricodorada#amor#amar#vida#saovalentim

Monte do Carvalhal, 31 de Março 2021 It seems like yesterday, that Spring was smiling in Easter time here in Monte, with my Grandparents António Burrico and Grandma Maria... The singing of birds, the shallow fields of water, the smell of flowers that covered the green land around, with yellow, purple, white and red mottled across the plain, poppies dancing in the afternoon breeze. The blue clock rang early, grandfather always brought it religiously from the fireplace to the bedroom and wound it up, to remind him at 06:00 that it was time to do the work. Sometimes I would wake up with the sound of dry olive branches that he would break to light the fire in the morning. I still have his scent, so familiar, so present in Alma's memory. Monte's grandmother told me to stay a little longer, that it was still early and that it was cold, but I slipped my galoshes over my pajamas and ran after her, Grandpa had already gone to feed the Mule. It was time to fill the iron pot with water, which was used for everything here at home – Grandfather's shave, filling the basin for washing his face and for lunch. There was no time to lose in the morning, feeding the chicks, the ducks, the hens, the weaklings. Barley-glazed basins were filled for them, who were already waiting. And I, happy that I was going to open them with Grandma and throw open the door of the henhouse and make way for the animals to scatter through the streets of the hill, happy that they were free to roam... But the best part was yet to come. to arrive. The grandmother filled glass bottles with the yellow flour from the can and the hot water from the pan, shook it, put the teat on and said to me:”_ Take this one to give to the little lamb.” And there I went, with them in my hand, happy and singing. She would open the door of the “malhada” where the lambs were, and there she would put 1 or 2 on her lap to give them the “Xuxa”. And they already knew, with their tail giving and sucking the morning's milk. Such beautiful memories of the sweet smell of the lambs' wet noses, the tenderness of hugging them - I miss them so, so much... Then we would arrest the adult lambs there to eat fresh grass. The grandmother lassoed the animals' legs and attached the rope to a mallet that she stuck in the ground, and how many times did I get stuck up to my knees from running after her... One of those mornings, the gentleman who was going to shear the sheep was expected, with his leather suit and iron scissors, too big for my hands. And I was mesmerized to see such meticulous work, with hands already calloused from years of Shearing. She thought that by removing the wool, the sheep would be stripped of their warm clothes, but I soon realized that it was really necessary. Those were beautiful days, the ones that passed many springs on Monte... Grandfather asked if he wanted to go with him to fetch water from the well, near Ribeira, nobody said Guadiana river, it was Ribeira, who knows... And off we went us, in the Water cart, a flask on top of the cart, a huge enameled funnel, buckets and ropes, this is how the water was collected to fill the Talha under the Oliveira tree in front of the house and the 2 large clay jugs that they gave us a drink with the cork trough, still carved by my great-grandfather Luís Pastor, whom I never met. Water, so vital, and even more so at that time, when nothing was cultivated that wasn't rainfed. Grandfather sowed Melon, Peas, Broad Beans, Barley, Wheat, Grains and, close to the house, small rows of Lettuce, Coriander, Tomato, Pepper and little else, since there was not enough water to water. Baths, only on Sundays and the rest of the week, a large basin did the trick. Those were different times, but they also taught me the importance of small things. Grandmother kneaded the bread for the week (I never ate bread like hers again, kneaded in a huge clay bowl), the Popias, the “Passarinho no Ninho” cakes (which she straightened with scissors to make the feathers on them), the Pandegos to fry, the Puff Cakes and even the Pão-de-Ló that she made in a mold on the stove, even more so at Easter. Normally, when we came here, lunch on Aleluia Sunday was at Aunt Leonor and Uncle Jorge's house in Moura, with my parents, Manuel & Mina, cousins Ana and Sandra. Grandpa Donkey loved this season! A table full of stories and conversation... And what a table. There was no shortage of Roasted Lamb or Ensopado, Sheep Cheese, Sausage, Cracklings, colored lard, and Auntie always had Curd Cheese Cake, Almond Manjar and Sweet Piglet. And of course, the Spanish caramels with pine nuts for Grandpa, who he loved! In the times we live in, with the absence of the Grandparents and the impossibility of being together, I fondly remember moments that I shared and that I keep in my heart. Perhaps we cannot repeat them, but perpetuate them, in the memory and in the preparation of some of the dishes that were prepared at the time, so that we never lose the Traditions, which connect us and bind us to the Love that we carry within us. I had the privilege of having lived this time in the Alentejo and Beira-Baixa for many years, I also lived a truly happy childhood, I never forget my Grandparents and I am grateful for what I received from them. I miss them, yes, I wish I could hug them, but if Easter is a Rebirth for life, then they are reborn in me whenever it happens and they remain with me in my heart, today and always. Wishes for a Holy and Happy Easter to all, here on Monte, where I live today, in what used to be the Casa dos Avós, between Moura and the Pedrogão dam and, where I am happy to receive our Guests at Casa das Oliveiras, Casa da Mina and Casa da Rita, in ours and also yours, little piece of Heaven. We wait for you and we welcome those who visit us, from Soul and Heart. Well done. Rita, Donkey D'Orada #burricodorada#rtvaladas#alentejo#Easter

Monte do Carvalhal, August 3rd 2021 Today is a very special date for me. 1 year ago, I moved from Sintra to Baixo-Alentejo. After so many months living a new stage of my life, amongst new experiences, different rhythms, without routines and old habits, I found new paths, whishes, and the will to create new challenges, ones that lead me to my inner self. It has not been easy but changes never are. Maybe because without sorrow, deception, tears flooding both eyes and heart, without physical loneliness – it would not be possible to find oneself. After almost 5 years preparing this piece of land, inherited from my grandparents and where I live now and receive the ones visiting and staying with us, choosing peacefulness, authenticity, both colors and the aromas of Baixo-Alentejo – I do realize that I have a whole new voyage ahead of me, waiting to be built and lived. As life cannot be based on hurry’s, crazy anxieties, oversized ambitions, but more on small moments, balanced longings and being happy. I can even say I have started from scratch. And still think many times from where my strength and courage come from... After so many years with someone on my side, I live now the so called “One Woman Show”, with our Country Lodging BB, having present, still, that no one walks alone. Besides my parents precious and vital help, I have found here many Angels, who help me and with whom I share my Path. I am deeply grateful to all of them and if Life is worth it, it is also because is made on sharing our days with the ones we find on the way… I have come to realize that I do live in a unique place, that this region has much, much to discover and that many times it is even difficult to choose the best thing here! If its Wines, Olive-Oils, Cured Meats, Black-Pork Meat, Aromatic Herbs, the Sun, the Summer Breeze, the Winters with the aroma of Acorn Charcoal in the air, the Guadiana River, the Alqueva Great Lake, the Sweets, the fragrant Lamb Dishes, the Chick-Pea Stew, the Migas, the Figes, the Oranges, the Tomatoes, the Watermelon, the Melons, the Almonds, the Honey, the Liqueurs, the Cante, its people… I see and do feel that all of these is part of me now, is also mine, our inland Baixo-Alentejo . Many work here and want to see their dreams come true, want Happiness to grow from this land alongside with the seeds of a better Future, so many times, postponed. And it is good to know and feel that I do have such good Partners in this region, ones living and developing their activities with professionalism and on a Synergy vibe with everyone – without them, our Monte, our Burrico D´Orada, would not be the same… All the ones coming here are welcome and during their stay, it makes me happy suggesting them to discover and taste this land. From a boat ride at Alqueva Lake with Alquevatours, a Fishing Trip with Pascal, a horse ride with Equimoura, a SUP class or canoeing with Alentejobreak, a Jeep-Safari, to a relaxing massage with VipRelax in the morning, under the refreshing shade of a Olive-Tree at our Monte! Having time and will to do so many things here, its wonderful! And of course, one could not leave without tasting the top-quality Black-Pork Cured Meats at the 100 Years Casa Cavalheiro in Moura, the Serpa DOP Cheeses, or the unique wines of this region – from Granja-Amareleja, Moura, Serpa, Vidigueira, Vila de Frades, Cuba. There are many quality wine producers and wineries that ought to be discovered. I do reccommend the Clay-Amphora Wines at Adega do Mestre Daniel (Talhas XXVI), the Gerações da Talha and Honrado Vineyards at Cella Vineria Antiqua, Herdade do Rocim, Marel , Quinta da Pigarça, amongst many others. But there is so much to taste here…I always tell people, if enjoying wines, to save a few days to discover top producers such as – Quinta do Quetzal, Margaça Family, Casa Clara, Herdade da Lisboa, Quinta do Paral, Herdade dos Cotéis, Herdade dos Machados, Encostas de Serpa, ACVidigueira. You name it, even I do get surprised with this wine region! The most fantastic is that most of these estates also produce great olive-oils and one needs to try the liquid gold of this region as well. By this one easily understands that Alentejo is a blessed land, much in need to be preserved, cherished, protected, and promoted. Therefore, besides getting to know this region delicacies, I have learned to live on a slower pace “com vagar”, as it is said here. There is no rush, nor hastiness here. Time persists and exists on a much different scale. Many ask me if I do not miss the Lisbon hecticness, the Shopping Centers, the Outlets, the city noise and rhythms. No, I believe I do live now beyond that reality. Have learned to live with less things and with more affection – for the land, the animals, the birds singing, the wind, the aromas, the sunset, the rainy days, the crickets music, the smiles on friendly faces, the smell of fresh coffee on weekends morning, this red land, the aroma of figs and the dust on my skin and on my old shoes, my cats, even on my loneliness moments – I have fallen in love with this peace and silence, the magical moments when I do connect with the Universe surrounding me, with Heaven, with God, with myself. This is my life now, learning new habits, gardening, maintenance, talking and sharing my life with our Guests. Learning to love the small moments, of new colors, new dreams, of a new me. Because the past stayed behind and today is a new day. I want to learn more every day in my Baixo-Alentejo, with the profound conviction that this is my place now. The Future does not belong to me, I place it on God`s Hands, for He brought me here. Thank you to all the ones that have been supporting and giving me so much caring, affection and courage to keep going. You make my heart smile and bright up my days here. Very grateful for your Love and Friendship: Mom, Dad, Maria, Bia, Manuel, Elsa, Felizarda, Gina, Manuel Luís, Gaby. For I do not walk alone and am today more myself and HAPPY. Bless you. With Love, Rita.

Almost at the end of this year, I could not stop thinking about how much I have lived these last 12 months. The Pandemic, already widely spoken about, leaves marks, traces, scars, wounds, many still to be healed, on the skin and in our Soul - fears, grief, losses, bitter surprises, that we try to understand and even accept, with our finite condition of mere mortals, but also as Beings in constant Evolution and Learning. With almost 1 and a half years of living and being on the ground in the interior Baixo-Alentejo, today, closing my eyes for a brief moment and listening to my heart speaking about what it feels and what it has learned during this stage, it seems to me that it has been the year of the most greatest change in my still young life so far. From opening a Country Lodging business in the middle of a pandemic, of moving forward on a very bumpy road, between closing down, reopening, redefining strategies and objectives every week, inventing solutions to pay the bills, living one summer without the Pool/Tank, because money doesn't fall from the sky and because we do everything to avoid debts. To stop having a salary for several years, to develop a personal business, still without personal gains, to invest what you have in a region that you want to see more developed, to understand that you have to leave all your old life behind and start again... New beginnings are hard, it hurts, it makes the heart ache and it often leaves you empty-handed of what you took for granted and that you discover is not for you. The past no longer belongs to me, I learn to walk alone after many years with someone, I fall, I get up, I talk to myself, with my cats, with the Trees and the Birds here at our Monte, I cry, I sing, I shout nonsense, but I also laugh at myself and I surprise myself by my Courage of succeeding, even so, of moving forward little by little, yes still with empty pockets, but with a full heart, of Gratitude. A great and dear friend of mine, tells me that I am a "Warrior", and I want to believe that I am, that I am 46 years old and that I believe that all of us can change and walk more in tune with our Mission, when we feel that it is time to leave and move towards ourselves. Nobody says it's easy, we often want to close the door and even give up, because living in Portugal inland is romantic and beautiful, but that's only a small part of it. Small businesses have had a very bumpy road, particularly over the last two years or so. Many have closed their doors and others have had to reinvent themselves. Today I believe it's no use making big plans, nor creating many expectations, what I have now and the present moment, will certainly be very different in a few months time. The most important thing is to value the small achievements that we make, the moments, the people who believe in us and cherish us, the things that make us happy and never stop believing and visualising our dreams... In the space of more than a year, I have received and talked to extraordinary people here at Monte, many of them having set a place in my heart, I have prepared Breakfasts, Moonlight Dinners, Suppers, Lunches with Guests who have become Friends, I have tried Korean Gastronomy, I have made and unmade beds, I have cleaned houses from top to bottom, I have made dozens and dozens of machines and clotheslines, I decorated empty spaces, I recovered furniture, I cleaned weeds and grass, I cleared olive trees, I cut firewood, I transported lime stones and stones, I nailed pictures and outdoor signs , I painted chairs, I planted new trees and bushes, I picked vegetables, potatoes, onions, olives, I did On-Line Training, I worked as a Baker, an Accountant, a Sales & Marketing Manager. I met and tasted new wines from unique producers in this region, one of my passions, I sat down many times to enjoy the sunset, the stars in this Alentejo sky, I cried alone, I cried and laughed with my closest friends, I watered plants for hours with headphones listening to K-POP and dancing, I got soaked and wet during summer storms, I discovered a new Passion for Korean Music and Series and some Asian Countries. Yes, I was also truly happy this past year. And, I realize, that I can, I want to keep learning, every day of my life, discover the world beyond this blessed corner of my Monte. The Path is to continue, to break new ground, to work, to develop new projects, because I am healthy to do so, thank God, to meet people who speak to my heart , to believe in this region that welcomed me, to share beautiful moments with dear friends and guests, to collaborate through those who work with Burrico D'Orada and even to think that Beja Airport and the railway will one day be a reality and an asset for the development of this inland region, which needs more involvement from everyone and less politics, less selfish interests . I wish you all a Year 2022 full of POSITIVE things: Walk with a Smile in your Heart, Believe in our Dreams, Share more, Give more, Work Together, Be more Truthful, Be more Authentic in Gestures, in Words, in Friendship, in Love. Because after all, Nobody walks Alone and Life is NOW. There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday and the other tomorrow, so today is the right day to love, believe, do and above all live. Dalai Lama 마음이 말하는 행복 Happiness is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3TtmRm7Z1CU Take Care. With Love, Rita Valadas #burricodorada #rtvaladas

Dear Friends & Future Guests, During this year, full of surprises, life stops, changes and transformations, time has come to close the door to what does not make your heart beat anymore. After more than 4 years of work, a new Horizon have been discovered and we are now opening new windows. Old clothing is taken-off as it does not fit easy to our life walking and we start rebuilding stone by stone the seed of a little girl´s dream. Old melodies paths are left behind you and we focus our Light on new battles, initiating new challenges, much needed to our own growth. Life cannot be contained, nor restricted to a day life of routines, it overflows amidst our hands and asks us to be bold, spread our wings to new destinations. It is not easy, as the detachment to comfort and security never is. And a change, hurts, it aches, really does. You rip off the last 12 years roots´ and firm it with courage and bravery within a faraway land, but strangely so close to your heart. Many attempts have been made to achieve a constant flowing and rewarding work rhythm, but sometimes we sadly discover that as much we try, nothing goes far, maybe because it is not the Mission you have been given. You invest, give so much of yourself and NOTHING. And if you are tired of swimming against the current, it´s time to head South. 4 years after beginning this crossing, we are now visualizing our destination. And it might be incomplete still, but in a few weeks´ time, we will be ready to receive our first Guests in our 3 Country Houses in Baixo-Alentejo – with Love, Gratitude and Joy Therefore, yesterday, after so many journeys between Lisbon and Monte do Carvalhal, I have re-planted my own roots on a new ground. A cycle has been closed and a new one is opening up, being full aware of so many sacrifices and demands life has long requested me. Re-calculating, lots of mathematic, adjust the measures, use your imagination and accommodate the last few years of your life in one bedroom and 1 living-room with kitchen, with 3 Cats and back aching with so much responsibility during this Covid-19 times. I actually laugh at my own imagination, re-inventing spaces where there is lack of it and storing books, clothing, dishes, computer, furniture in what was once my Grandparents little cottage – and realizing we can actually live with few. And after a few years without buying any clothing or shoes, we do understand that Health, True Friendship & Love are the most important things in life. We have recycled a life within 3 two bedroom houses and our little space – we have placed much of ourselves - Love, Generosity and Authenticity – on the houses built to receive who ever comes to stay with us. It is not ready yet, but almost…Yes, it´s lacking a swimming-pool, a proper garden, the landscaping foot trails, but we have plenty of caring, a warm scented red lan, olive-trees, figue-tress, safety, hospitality, nature, sun and the bluest sky, that covers us in the night with a wonderful infinite stars blanket, snuggling our sleep with an enchanting dreams promise. This is Baixo-Alentejo inland, a window to little great Treasures, which fill our hearts and bring us joy. From unique Wines, Olive-Oils, Cheese, Smoked Sausages & Cured Black Pig Meats, Aromatic Herbs, restful and silence nights, Lambs, Roman Ruins, Ancient Convents, the Guadiana River, peaceful villages and ancient beautiful cities - Moura, Serpa, Pias, Pedrogão, Vidigueira, Vila de Frades, Vila Alva & Vila Ruiva, Cuba, Ferreira do Alentejo, Castro Verde, Almodôvar, Aljustrel, Ourique. To the the aromatic Gastronomy – the Açordas, Migas, Gaspacho, Hare Rice, Lamb-Stew, Chick-Peas & Meat Stew - the sweet and traditional Confectionery - the Porquinho-Doce, Popias, Costas, Bolos-Folhados, Queijinhos de Hóstia, Túberas, Borrachos, Talhadinhas, Chibo-Cake, Almond-Cake, the Cavacas… So much to discover, so much to unveil within a Universe that is also mine and dear to my heart – here, in this little Heaven´s place that waits for you with great joy and which I call HOME. Tribute to Alentejo Page The great Plain as a page this is the ground I was seeking silence made into a wing almost bread almost word. To be chanted To be home. Poems of Manuel Alegre, in "Alentejo e Ninguém", 1996 Bless You, Rita, August 4th 2020, Monte do Carvalhal