Culture meets conference in Portugal - unforgettable experiences

Portugal is experiencing a modern cultural renaissance, and this presents a unique opportunity for event planners to create truly unforgettable experiences for your guests.

With major events like Web Summit, NOS Alive music festival, and Tribeca Festival Lisboa gracing the country, Portugal has firmly established itself as a hub for innovation, creativity, and cultural exchange.

To create a truly unique and memorable event, we recommend that your plans transcend the traditional conference, event, or festival setting. Portugal is rich in cultural history and natural beauty that deserves to be discovered. We're here with six ideas on how to extend your attendees' enjoyment and your reach sustainably by incorporating immersive experiences that deeply engage with Portugal's vibrant culture.

1. A Culinary Journey Through Lisbon's Soul: The "Tasca Tour"

Step away from the bustling city center and discover the soul of Lisbon in Alfama, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the Portuguese capital. This historic district, which largely survived the devastating 1755 earthquake, offers a glimpse into the city's rich past through its charming narrow streets and traditional architecture.

Alfama is known for its authentic culinary scene, where visitors can experience the true flavors of Portuguese cuisine. On this "Tasca Tour," a celebrated local chef will personally guide you through the winding cobblestone streets of Alfama, visiting local restaurants, cafes, and markets. Together, you'll explore the art of preparing traditional Portuguese petiscos (tapas), gaining insights into the history and culture that infuse Alfama's cuisine. The experience offers an immersive journey into Portuguese culinary traditions and the local way of life in one of Lisbon's most iconic neighborhoods. It's an excellent way for visitors, including those attending events like Web Summit, to connect with the city's vibrant soul through its food.

To further enhance the cultural connection, we incorporate a visit to the magnificent Casa do Alentejo, a 17th-century palace transformed into a cultural center. Here, surrounded by historic architecture, your team can savor authentic Alentejo specialties like migas, experiencing a unique juxtaposition of old and new that perfectly reflects Portugal's evolving culinary scene.

2. A Symphony of Senses: Wine, Cuisine, and Portuguese Heritage

After energizing rountables at your conference, continue the discussions during a private wine tasting at a renowned Portuguese vineyard. Within a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, visitors can explore several notable wineries and vineyards offering unique wine experiences:

1. Villa Oeiras: Located in Carcavelos, just 20 minutes from Lisbon, Villa Oeiras produces the unique Carcavelos DOC wine, one of the smallest DOCs in the world. ("DOC" signifies a wine's pedigree, guaranteeing its origin and adherence to strict quality standards.) This fortified wine has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it was the flagship wine of the Marquis of Pombal.
   RuaMar recommends: Tour its picturesque vineyards facing the Atlantic Ocean and the historic 18th-century barrel room, restored in 2013. Taste their distinctive wines, including the acclaimed 2009 Colheita made from Castelão and Trincadeira, known for its honeyed tones, full body, and complex flavors of caramel, butterscotch, honey, and pecan.

2. Quinta da Folgorosa: This charming vineyard, distinguished by its vintage white windmill, offers a blend of history and modern winemaking. The estate benefits from an Atlantic microclimate and spans 12.5 hectares (31 acres) of vineyards within a 40-hectare (90-acre) property with uninterrupted views of the Montejunto Mountains.
   RuaMar recommends: Explore the vineyards, learn about sustainable grape growing methods, and enjoy tastings of 6 of their best wines paired with local petiscos.

3. Adega Regional de Colares: Situated in the Sintra area, this historic winery is renowned for its unique wines produced in sandy soils. The winery offers tours of its centuries-old cellars, where visitors can learn about the region's winemaking history dating back to the 13th century. Colares is famous for its Ramisco grape variety, which produces robust red wines with high tannins and acidity. The winery's location near the Atlantic Ocean contributes to the distinct minerality in their wines.
   RuaMar recommends: Our curated escape includes tastings of these rare wines paired with exquisite local cheeses and charcuterie and exploration of the nearby town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a deeper cultural immersion. This all-inclusive experience includes five-star accommodations, access to breathtaking coastal views, palaces, and private tours.

4. Adega Mãe Winery: Located in Torres Vedras, this modern winery seamlessly blends contemporary architecture with traditional winemaking techniques. The estate spans 40 hectares of vineyards planted with both indigenous and international grape varieties. Adega Mãe offers comprehensive tours that educate visitors about their sustainable viticulture practices and innovative winemaking process. The winery's sleek tasting room provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and hills.
   RuaMar recommends: Participating in various wine-tasting experiences, including vertical tastings of their award-winning Dory red wine. The winery also hosts seasonal events, such as harvest parties and wine-pairing dinners featuring local cuisine.

5. Quinta de Sant'Ana: This family-owned estate in Gradil, Mafra, offers a unique blend of history, wine, and culture. The property has a romantic history, allegedly gifted by King Dom Luis to an actress he loved. The quinta boasts 12.5 hectares of vineyards producing distinctive wines from grape varieties that include Touriga Nacional, Aragonez, Merlot, Ramisco, Pinot Noir, Tinta Miúda, Fernão Pires, Arinto, Sauvignon Blanc, Alvarinho, and Riesling. The estate's Atlantic microclimate, with cool misty mornings and hot afternoons, contributes to the wines' unique character.
   RuaMar recommends: Indulging in a picnic or a tasting of 5 wines paired with a local cheese board in the beauty of the Portuguese countryside. The nearby Tapada Nacional de Mafra, a former royal hunting ground, offers additional outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.

Just a short journey from the bustling city, these vineyards offer a tranquil escape where you can savor the finest Portuguese wines, explore breathtaking landscapes, and do your best brainstorming and team connection in the unspoiled settings of the Portuguese landscape.

3. A Brush with History: Delving into Portugal's Azulejo Tradition

Following a screening at the Tribeca Festival Lisboa, imagine your team immersed in a tile-painting workshop celebrating Portugal's iconic azulejo tradition. We partner with studios like A Casa do Azulejo or The Art of Azulejo near the National Tile Museum. Paint tiles while learning about tile history and techniques, tracing their roots back to the 15th century when this art form was introduced by the Moors.

This isn't just a painting class; it connects you with Portuguese artistry. As you carefully trace the outlines and select vibrant hues, you're not just creating art; you're connecting with centuries of Portuguese tradition. This multi-sensory experience transcends a simple workshop. In our version of this experience, each brushstroke is accompanied by the soulful melodies of traditional fado music, the aroma of freshly baked pastel de nata, and perhaps even a taste of vinho verde, all carefully curated to evoke the essence of the scenes depicted in the azulejos.

4. A Taste of the Sea: A Sailing Adventure and Coastal Cuisine

Before we set sail on this thrilling adventure along Portugal's breathtaking coastline, where the azure waters meet the dramatic cliffs, remember that Portugal's maritime prowess is legendary. While traditional fishing remains a cornerstone of coastal life, Portugal offers a wealth of other exciting water-based activities:

• Surfing: Portugal boasts world-class surf breaks, from the powerful waves of Nazaré to the more manageable swells of Ericeira.

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Explore hidden coves, observe marine life, and enjoy the tranquility of the ocean on a stand-up paddleboard.

• Kayaking: Explore hidden caves and grottos, kayak through serene lagoons, or simply enjoy the freedom of paddling in the open ocean.

• Diving and Snorkeling: Discover the underwater world, encountering diverse marine life and exploring vibrant coral reefs.

RuaMar recommends: Learning the techniques of local fishermen as you cast your nets into the crystal-clear waters. Alternatively, join a local fishing tour and experience the thrill of reeling in your catch.

Then, witness the magic of transformation as you learn to prepare your catch using authentic Portuguese recipes. Savoring the fruits of your labor, freshly caught and expertly cooked, connects you directly to the country's maritime heritage and the bounty of its coastal waters.

5. A Sanctuary of Wellness: Rediscovering Portuguese Healing Traditions

After the event, escape the bustle of the city for a world of tranquility at one of Portugal's renowned thermal springs, some dating back to Roman times. Indulge in rejuvenating yoga sessions amidst the serene natural surroundings, followed by soothing spa treatments that utilize the healing properties of the thermal waters.

Beyond the Thermal Springs: A Tea Tradition
While Portugal's cafe culture thrives on strong coffee, the country boasts a lesser-known history with tea. Portugal's connection to tea dates back to the Age of Exploration, when Portuguese traders brought tea leaves back from Asia. Today, herbal teas play a significant role in Portuguese wellness practices. Learn about the unique properties of local plants and herbs, used for centuries to promote relaxation, digestion, and overall well-being. Discover how these natural ingredients are blended to create customized infusions tailored to your individual needs.
RuaMar recommends: Crafting your own personalized wellness blend. Under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor, experiment with various herbs like chamomile, lavender, lemon balm, and spearmint, each offering distinct health benefits. This hands-on experience allows you to connect with Portugal's ancient healing traditions and create a unique souvenir to take home.

For a truly immersive tea experience, consider visiting Soalheiro, a renowned producer located in the Vinho Verde region. Here, you you’ll be guided though an infusion tasting experience and workshop to create your own personalized wellness blends.

6. Beyond the Music: Adventure & Beach Vibes

NOS Alive is more than just a music festival; it's an experience. While the incredible lineup of international and Portuguese artists will undoubtedly be the main draw, don't forget to explore the adventures and beach life that surround this incredible event.

For the thrill-seekers, Portugal offers a playground of exciting activities. Coasteering along the dramatic coastline, combining climbing, swimming, and exhilarating jumps into the sea, is a must-try. Surfing enthusiasts can catch some world-class waves at renowned surf spots, while stand-up paddleboarding offers a serene way to explore the calm waters of the Tagus River or the Atlantic Ocean. Hiking trails wind through the scenic Sintra Mountains and Arrábida Natural Park, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for adventure. For the rock climbing enthusiasts, Sintra and Cascais offer challenging routes for all levels.

But no trip to Portugal is complete without embracing the beach life. Relax on the golden sands of Carcavelos, Cascais, or Guincho, soaking up the sun and the vibrant atmosphere. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, or try your hand at beach volleyball, a perfect way to meet fellow festival-goers and enjoy the summer vibes. Don't forget to explore the lively beach bars, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and soak up the music under the summer sky.

Beyond the beach and the adrenaline-pumping activities, take time to truly explore the vibrant city of Lisbon itself. Visit historical landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower, and the São Jorge Castle. Take in the city's vibrant culture, explore the charming neighborhoods, and indulge in the delicious Portuguese cuisine.

Crafting Unique Experiences: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Portugal's charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend the old with the new. Let your event in Portugal be a transformative experience that explores the soul of this captivating nation. Your unique event awaits. We’ve got the insider knowledge to make it seamless, from the technical details like logistics and customs to the very best of gastronomy and cultural immersion. Let's bring your vision to life in Portugal.