In the previous article, we talked about the Duro Valley and Port wine. Now we’ll talk about another fascinating part of Portugal.

When you think of Portugal, a few images probably come to mind: scenic coastline, pastel de nata, Fado music, maybe even a glass of ruby-red port. But nestled among its gently rolling hills and sun-warmed landscapes lies something many travelers overlook—Portugal’s cork forests. Yes, cork—the same natural material that keeps your wine sealed tight and your floors soundproofed—is one of the country’s most fascinating and eco-friendly exports. And exploring a cork farm in Portugal is far more enriching than most would imagine.

I’ve walked through these forests myself, under the watchful eye of cork oaks that are older than some countries. It’s not just about trees and bark—it’s a lesson in resilience, sustainability, and centuries of harmony between nature and people. If you’re looking for a truly unique, off-the-beaten-path experience in Portugal, cork country is calling.

A Brief History of Cork in Portugal

Portugal’s relationship with cork goes back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting the use of cork in fishing gear, sandals, and even roofing materials as far back as the Roman era. But it was during the 18th century that cork production truly flourished, thanks in part to the wine industry’s demand for reliable stoppers.

Today, Portugal is the world leader in cork production, responsible for more than 50% of the global supply. The country is home to over 730,000 hectares of cork oak forests, primarily located in the Alentejo region in central and southern Portugal. This area has become synonymous with cork farming and remains the heart of the industry.

The cork oak (Quercus suber) is a remarkable tree. It thrives in the Mediterranean climate, requires minimal water or chemical intervention, and lives up to 200 years. What makes it truly special, though, is that it can be harvested without ever being cut down. Every 9–12 years, trained workers strip the bark by hand—a highly skilled and regulated process that ensures the tree remains unharmed.

This regenerative cycle makes cork one of the most sustainable materials on Earth—something Portugal takes immense pride in.

Where to Visit: Portugal’s Cork Farm Heartland

If you’re interested in visiting a cork farm, your best bet is to base yourself in or around the Alentejo region. This vast, golden-hued expanse stretches from the Atlantic coast eastward toward the Spanish border and is known for its relaxed pace of life, historic towns, rich gastronomy, and—you guessed it—cork forests.

Here’s how to get there and a few farms that warmly welcome visitors:

Getting There

Most travelers start their journey in Lisbon, and from there, the Alentejo is easily accessible.

• By car: The drive from Lisbon to Évora (the Alentejo’s most famous city) takes about 1.5 hours. From Évora, many cork farms are within a 30–60-minute radius.

• By train or bus: You can also take a train from Lisbon’s Entrecampos station to Évora in under 2 hours, with scenic countryside views along the way.

Having a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore multiple farms or smaller villages. And trust me—getting a little lost in the Alentejo is part of the charm.

Cork Farms That Welcome Travelers

Here are a few standout experiences where you can see cork farming up close and personal:

1. Herdade da Maroteira (Redondo, Alentejo)

This working estate, owned by the Reynolds family for five generations, offers an immersive look at both cork and wine production. You can walk through their cork forests with a guide, learn how the bark is harvested, and even touch a freshly stripped cork tree—warm and velvety to the touch.

They offer Jeep safaris, walking tours, and tastings of their award-winning wines. During harvest season (usually between May and August), you can witness cork stripping in action—a truly memorable sight.

2. Novacortiça (São Brás de Alportel, Algarve)

Closer to the southern Algarve coast, Novacortiça offers a behind-the-scenes look at cork processing. Their factory tour explains how raw cork is sorted, boiled, and transformed into everything from bottle stoppers to designer handbags.

This tour is more industrial than rural, but it’s fascinating to see the craftsmanship involved in turning bark into premium products. And if you’re staying near Faro or the Algarve beaches, it’s an easy half-day trip.

3. Ecork Hotel (Évora, Alentejo)

Not a farm per se, but this eco-conscious hotel is made with cork insulation and surrounded by cork oak forest. It’s a great base for exploring nearby cork farms, and the hotel itself celebrates cork’s eco-friendly properties. It’s also luxurious, quiet, and deeply rooted in local culture.

What Makes a Cork Farm Visit Special?

Visiting a cork farm is one of those rare travel experiences that’s equal parts enlightening and grounding. You walk away with a deeper appreciation for sustainability—not just as a buzzword, but as a lifestyle rooted in patience and balance.

Here’s what you can expect on a typical visit:

• A walk through ancient cork forests, often guided by locals who’ve worked the land for generations.

• Hands-on learning about how cork is harvested, dried, sorted, and used.

• Time to connect with nature, hearing nothing but the rustle of leaves and the distant bleating of sheep.

• Tastings or meals, often featuring regional wine, olive oil, and cheeses.

• Local crafts, including cork handbags, shoes, hats, wallets, and even umbrellas—sustainably made and stylishly Portuguese.

More Reasons to Love the Alentejo

The Alentejo isn’t just cork country—it’s one of Portugal’s most rewarding yet under-visited regions. If you come for the cork, stay for:

Évora

This UNESCO World Heritage city is a living museum, with Roman temples, Moorish architecture, and a chillingly beautiful bone chapel (Capela dos Ossos). Its cobblestone streets and outdoor cafés invite long, lazy afternoons.

Alentejo Wine Route

Home to some of Portugal’s boldest and most elegant wines, Alentejo vineyards offer tastings and tours that pair perfectly with your cork itinerary.

Rolling Landscapes and Stargazing

The plains stretch endlessly under wide, blue skies—perfect for scenic drives or bike rides. The Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve, nearby, is one of the best stargazing spots in Europe.

Gastronomy

Rustic, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Try açorda (a garlicky bread stew), black pork, and sheep’s milk cheese, ideally paired with a local red.

When to Visit

Late spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal. The weather is pleasant, the landscapes are golden and green, and you’ll avoid the peak summer heat. Cork harvests typically happen in May to August, depending on the region and rainfall.

Final Thoughts

Travel is about connection—connecting with people, with nature, with stories that stay with you. Visiting a cork farm in Portugal isn’t about checking something off a list. It’s about slowing down, stepping into the rhythm of the land, and discovering beauty in the quiet art of working with nature, not against it.

Portugal’s cork country invites you to experience something genuinely special. You’ll leave with more than just a souvenir—you’ll carry with you a sense of peace, respect for craftsmanship, and maybe even a beautiful cork wallet or two.

And if you’re ready to explore this side of Portugal with a carefully planned itinerary that fits your travel style and pace, I’d be honored to help make it happen.