Well known but still largely undiscovered, Portugal is a wealth of hidden villages, ancient traditions, sweeping bays and culinary delights.
Many have visited the golden stretches of Atlantic coast, the markets, and villas of the Algarve, however, there is a hidden side to Portugal.
Discover secret medieval castles, the rugged west coast and the enchantingly peaceful Alentejo region, with its atmosphere of a bygone era. Explore the winelands of Porto and the hidden back streets of Lisbon. Sample the freshest seafood, locally cured hams and delicious cheeses. Portugal is undoubtedly an array of surprises.
The beauty that is the Alentejo region is filled with walled towns and UNESCO heritage sites, while Moorish Castles remind visitors of the many battles which took place on these rolling hills. The Arab influence is seen everywhere; in the names of most towns starting with “Al”; the whitewashed houses; the pottery and the food. Alentejo is best explored at a leisurely pace, this is where the Portuguese come to holiday.
It was in the Algarve that, in the 15th century, the Portuguese set off on the epic journey that led them to discover other people and cultures. Today it is filled with lovely hotels and private villas, making it the perfect spot for those wanting a traditional holiday with warm weather and spectacular fish and seafood. If visiting the Algarve, it is worth exploring away from the well-known resorts to discover a traditional way of Portuguese life.
A vast region, the centre of Portugal reaches from the ocean to the west into the interior. The interior boasts mountains and picturesque granite villages, while the long coastline from Porto to Lisbon is home to fishing villages, beaches and thermal springs. Throughout this part of the country, Portugal’s centuries-old heritage is proudly on display and showcases its unique food, UNESCO sites, convents and monasteries.
A blend of new and old, Lisbon is often surprising. With contrasting neighbourhoods, each one seems to offer a largely unique combination of atmosphere, vibrance, colour, food, wine, and local culture.
The North of Portugal is home to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal as Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. The North has a strong religious tradition, and the largest number of churches and monasteries are found here, along with the famous Vinho Verde wine.
It is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Douro Valley. The Douro Wine Region, created in 1756, holds an amazing landscape of man-built terraces built to plant vineyards on the region’s rugged slope.
Porto, a World Heritage city, is the gateway of the region. It is known for the famous Port wine but also for a heritage which combines ancient churches and monuments, as well as modern buildings and amazing architecture, overlooking the river. Perfect for exploring by foot, the city is home to local shops, food, and a genuine warmth, alongside many variations of Port wine.
A villa can be the sole purpose of a holiday – time to relax, use as a base to further explore and spend time with family and friends. Who doesn’t want to while away a few hours with a book, al fresco lunch on the terrace before heading out to discover local tavernas. With a few insider tips on what to do in the local area, a private villa can be the perfect holiday, both busy or sedate. Examples include Villa Syrah, near Lisbon, located on a private estate or Quinta Matilde – found inland on the less-visited west coast in Pinhao. This is a four-bedroom villa nestled amongst olive trees and vineyards with views over the river Douro.
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