São Martinho in Torres Vedras: Wine, Autumn and Local Traditions

In many parts of Portugal, 11 November means São Martinho, roasted chestnuts and new wine. 

In Torres Vedras, the date has an additional significance. 

São Martinho is also the municipal holiday, and its connection with the region is closely tied to something that has shaped the surrounding landscape for centuries: wine. 

That makes November an especially interesting time to stay at Quinta da Carlota. The grape harvest has passed, autumn has changed the colours of the countryside and Torres Vedras turns its attention to the traditions, food and wines that form part of its identity. 

Why is São Martinho important in Torres Vedras? 

The connection is not accidental. Torres Vedras established 11 November as its municipal holiday in 1977, with the choice linked to the municipality’s long-standing importance as a wine-producing area. 

Viticulture has been part of the region for centuries and remains visible today in both the landscape and local economy. 

São Martinho, traditionally associated with the tasting of the year’s new wine, was therefore a particularly fitting date for Torres Vedras. 

Today, the celebration forms part of a wider programme that brings together local culture, food, traditions and wine. 

Festas de Torres Vedras 2026 

In 2026, the Festas de Torres Vedras take place from 24 October to 11 November, concluding on São Martinho and the municipal holiday. 

The programme celebrates local identity through culture, gastronomy, music, sport and traditions, with several events connected to the region’s food and wine heritage. 

Highlights include the 22nd Rota das Adegas BTT on 1 November, the Pastel de Feijão de Torres Vedras competition on 6 November and activities linked to local heritage throughout the programme. 

The festivities culminate on Wednesday, 11 November, São Martinho itself. 

For visitors, that means the celebration extends beyond a single day. A stay in late October or early November offers several opportunities to experience Torres Vedras at this time of year. 

A landscape shaped by wine 

You do not need to wait until 11 November to understand the importance of wine in Torres Vedras. 

Drive through the countryside surrounding Quinta da Carlota and vineyards repeatedly become part of the landscape. 

The region also has its own protected designation, DOP Torres Vedras, covering a defined geographical area and wines that meet the applicable production requirements. 

By November, the busiest weeks of the grape harvest are usually behind the region. The vineyard colours begin to change and work continues in the wineries as the winemaking process enters another stage. 

It is a quieter way to discover wine country. 

8 November: World Wine Tourism Day 

If wine is one of the reasons for your stay, Sunday, 8 November 2026 is particularly worth noting. 

To mark World Wine Tourism Day, several producers on the Torres Vedras Wine Tourism Route will open their doors for guided visits and wine tastings. 

The official programme includes: 

• Adega de São Mamede da Ventosa; 

• Casal da Carrasqueira; 

• Caves Barbosa; 

• Fonte das Moças; 

• Quinta da Boa Esperança; 

• Património Wines. 

Experiences vary between producers and include vineyard walks, winery visits, explanations of the winemaking process and tastings. Places are limited and visits must be booked directly with each producer. 

It is an opportunity not only to taste local wines, but also to learn more about the people, vineyards and production behind them. 

São Martinho, new wine and roasted chestnuts 

One of the best-known Portuguese sayings associated with this time of year is: “No São Martinho, vai à adega e prova o vinho.” 

São Martinho traditionally marks the period when the year’s new wine begins to be tasted after the harvest. 

And wine is often accompanied by roasted chestnuts. The magusto, a gathering centred around roasted chestnuts and often wine, remains one of the most recognisable traditions associated with 11 November in Portugal. 

In Torres Vedras, that connection feels especially natural because vineyards and wine production remain such a visible part of the region. 

More than one winery to discover 

One advantage of staying at Quinta da Carlota is the number of wine producers within easy reach. 

Several wineries are located within roughly half an hour of the Quinta. 

You can discover the contemporary architecture of AdegaMãe, visit family estates such as Quinta da Almiara or Quinta da Boa Esperança, explore Casa Santos Lima, or travel towards Quinta do Gradil. Each offers a different perspective on the wine culture of the wider Torres Vedras area. 

Read more: 5 Wineries Within 30 Minutes of Quinta da Carlota 

Discover Torres Vedras through São Martinho 

For visitors, São Martinho may begin with a glass of wine and a handful of roasted chestnuts. 

In Torres Vedras, however, the story goes further. 

It connects with the vineyards that shape the countryside, generations of wine production, local food, the municipal holiday and traditions that continue to bring the community together every autumn. 

And from Quinta da Carlota, much of it is only a short drive away. Come for São Martinho, stay for the wine country and discover autumn in Torres Vedras from Quinta da Carlota. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

When is São Martinho celebrated in Torres Vedras? 

São Martinho is celebrated on 11 November, which is also the municipal holiday in Torres Vedras. 

Why is 11 November the municipal holiday in Torres Vedras? 

The date was established as the municipal holiday in 1977. The choice was linked to Torres Vedras’ long history as a wine-producing region and to the traditional association between São Martinho and new wine. 

When are the Festas de Torres Vedras in 2026? 

The Festas de Torres Vedras run from 24 October to 11 November 2026, ending on São Martinho. 

What happens on World Wine Tourism Day in Torres Vedras in 2026? 

On 8 November 2026, several producers on the Torres Vedras Wine Tourism Route will offer guided visits and wine tastings. Advance booking with each producer is required. 

What is a magusto? 

A magusto is a traditional autumn gathering associated with São Martinho, usually involving roasted chestnuts and, often, wine. 

Is November a good time to visit Torres Vedras? 

Yes. November combines autumn landscapes, São Martinho traditions, local festivities and wine-related activities, while offering a quieter way to explore the region. 

Are there wineries near Quinta da Carlota? 

Yes. Several wineries and wine estates are located within roughly 30 minutes of Quinta da Carlota, including AdegaMãe, Quinta da Almiara, Quinta da Boa Esperança, Casa Santos Lima and Quinta do Gradil.