HeART of Portugal
​w/Mpls Club

Register

October 17-24, 2026
$2,995
​8 days, 7 nights
There is something special waiting for you in Portugal! This intimate, all-inclusive tour is for members of the Minneapolis Club and their guests. 

From Lisbon, where vibrant city life meets historic architecture, to the Algarve, a region known for preserving and re-imagining Portugal’s traditional crafts, this journey offers a fully immersive experience. Discover Portugal’s old-world charm, creative heritage, and modern cultural expression in one unforgettable destination. And, do it all with friends!

Itinerary

Lisbon
Lisbon is a vibrant, sun-drenched city perched along the Tagus River, known for its winding cobblestone streets, iconic yellow trams, intricate azulejo tiles, and the soulful strains of traditional Fado music. From breathtaking hilltop viewpoints to exceptional seafood, Lisbon’s rich seafaring past blends effortlessly with a modern, creative spirit.

The city is alive with art, most notably its striking large-scale murals that decorate buildings and public spaces throughout Lisbon. Explore colorful neighborhoods by tuk-tuk, guided by local experts who share the stories behind the city’s iconic tiled artwork. A visit to the National Tile Museum offers insight into this uniquely Portuguese art form and sets the stage for a hands-on tile workshop later in the week, where you’ll create your own traditional glazed tile.

The Algarve
​Leaving the bustle of the capital behind, we journey south to the Algarve. Our retreat begins in the charming town of Loulé, where the creative soul of southern Portugal comes to life. Here, we immerse ourselves in local craftsmanship, surrounded by artisans, before making our way toward the coast.

Visit a family-owned ceramic studio where beautiful, functional pieces are crafted using traditional techniques and locally sourced or reclaimed materials—each item reflecting generations of knowledge and care. During the visit, you’ll have the chance to observe artisans at work, shaping and glazing pottery by hand, and learn about the creative process from raw clay to finished piece. The studio’s connection to the surrounding landscape is evident in every detail, from the natural pigments to the time-honored firing methods. Visitors are also invited to try their hand at the pottery wheel, experiencing firsthand the skill and patience required to shape the clay. It’s an intimate experience that not only showcases craftsmanship, but also tells the story of a family dedicated to preserving its artistic heritage.

A guided walk takes us into the eucalyptus-scented air of the Serra de Monchique mountains, home to ancient cork oak forests. The experience concludes with a tasting of extra-virgin olive oil—yes, it’s a thing, and it’s delicious. Discover how olives are harvested and transformed through time-honored stone mills and cold-press methods on a family-run farm.

In a cooking school in the Algarve, learning to prepare cataplana is as much about tradition as it is about technique. As the copper clam-shaped pot gently simmers, the aromas of fresh seafood, garlic, and herbs fill the air, capturing the essence of coastal Portuguese cuisine. When the dish is ready, we'll gather around the table to share this family-style meal.

A visit to a regenerative farm offers a glimpse into the rhythms of rural Algarve life, with a guided tour through orchards, gardens, and traditional production spaces. The experience culminates in a farm-to-table lunch, where fresh, locally grown ingredients are transformed into simple, flavorful dishes enjoyed in a peaceful countryside setting.

At Ria Formosa Natural Park, a boat ride carries us to the fishing village of Culatra, located on a barrier island within the estuary. Along the way, the knowledgeable and personable Captain shares his insights into the park’s unique ecosystem and local way of life, adding a memorable touch to the journey. Learn about local oyster farming before enjoying traditional seafood tapas at the water’s edge, with views of Atlantic waves rolling onto expansive sandy beaches.

Near the end of our stay, a wine tasting unfolds at a relaxed pace, with each pour revealing the character of the region’s sun-soaked vineyards. The experience is complemented by a picnic among the vines, where local flavors and carefully crafted wines seamlessly come together.

From freshly caught seafood and pastel de nata to world-famous Port wine, this journey indulges every sense. You’ll return home with unforgettable memories—and one lingering question: How soon can I get back to Portugal?

Inclusions

• Seven nights of double occupancy accommodation
• Transportation to and from Lisbon airport
• Transportation in Portugal
• Activities specified on the itinerary
• Welcome dinner on first night
• All breakfasts, lunches and dinners on days 2-7
• Experienced, tour guide 24/7

Exclusions

• Air travel to Portugal
• Travel insurance/trip cancellation insurance & CFAR
• Medical insurance/expenses​
• ​Snacks/food outside of meal times
• ​Alcoholic beverages
• Optional activities
• Tips for guides, drivers, housekeeping
• Items of a personal nature

Resources

• Where the Chefs Eat - Lisbon

Covid-19 and flu vaccines strongly recommended.
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Group is limited to 7 participants so reserve your spot early. Tour cost is for double occupancy.