Three days in Portugal promoted by Dolce Magazine to learn about olive oil and Portuguese cuisine. NB. As Dolce wants to give everyone an exceptional experience the programme may change.

Monday 21 October
We will be warmly welcomed by Graça Pereira and Chef José Maria Lino. We will go aboard a traditional boat on the Tagus and have a light breakfast. Next we will prepare a traditional Portuguese fish soup with the fishermen’s wives and Chef José. Then we will go to an authentic Portuguese folk festival at Tito Alba Winery.

By the evening we will have returned to the Benavente Vila Hotel where we will spend time together with Chef José in the kitchen concluding the day with a Portuguese-themed dinner.

Tuesday 22 October
Starting at 10.30 am we will drive to the Herdade de Vale de Arca where we will be welcomed by the owner. This area used to be the hunting grounds of King Carlos I. The soil and the climate are ideal for producing extra virgin olive oil. In addition, the new olive trees were planted around two dams, ensuring they have plenty of water all year round.

Together with owner Manuel Fernandes Magelhaes and Professor José Gouveia we will learn everything there is to know about olives, the pressing, picking, tasting and preservation. Lunch will be at the farm where we will be joined by local Alentejo dignitaries. After a delightful dinner we will stay the night in the 5-star Convento do Espinheiro in Évora.

Wednesday 23 October
After breakfast it will be “at leisure” in the hotel’s wonderful spa or visiting Évora. A Portuguese lunch is planned at Moinho do Cu Torto.

For more info please send an e-mail to: [email protected] [Tel: + 32 (0)474 54 04 66]

Meanwhile, please watch the video via the link above to see what fun this event was in 2018.

Ilse Duponcheel
Chancelier