Portugal
Long considered primarily a haven for sunseekers and golfers, Portugal is also one
of Europe’s unspoilt gems when you take the chance to dig a little deeper. This
land of traditional villages and vibrant cities has a charming countryside strewn
with historical treasures and a wide assortment of World Heritage sites - natural
and cultural wonders that offer a window into this once great seafaring nation.
Take in the prehistoric drawings at Foz Coa or 15th-century sea port at Angra do
Heroísmo, alongside the other designated sites around the country that zip you back
in time.
Portugal's lively and hugely underrated capital, Lisbon, along with its classy northern
sibling, Porto, are magical places for the wanderer thanks to intriguing side streets,
majestic plazas and trams which rattle along. Both cities have their share of enticing
urban life, encompassing eclectic restaurants, colourful boutiques, bohemian cafés
and stylish nightclubs that make excellent use of the waterside setting. Their sporting
rivalries are also a must for football fans and others looking for passion and flair,
while there is skiing for snow devotees who want a change from the norm.
Smaller cities offer something different and enchanting; beautifully preserved medieval
quarters in the likes of Évora, Coimbra, Guimarães and Braga are well worth exploring.
Outside the cities, travellers can enjoy Portugal's warm sunny weather by wandering
around centuries-old vineyards, visiting stone villages in the mountains or soaking
up rays on the magnificent southern shoreline. A trip round these parts will be
made even more native if you drop in on sleepy sulphur spas and hop around the offbeat
pousadas; the government made full use of the country’s stunning convents, monasteries
and palaces after WWII by turning them into homely accommodation.
Dramatic scenery lies all along the coast with imposing cliffs and sublime beaches
where you can wallow in beautiful solitude. More than just a static backdrop, the
dazzling scenery sets the stage for outdoor adventure as well. The Algarve is host
to a slew of amazing golf courses; however it is also the perfect place to stretch
your legs. Monchique and Silves are great for hiking while dreamy destination Sagres
was once known as the end of the world! The Azores and Madeira are alluring islands
off the Portuguese coast that deserve a few days of your time to round off the experience.
Horse riding and big-game fishing are standout activities that fully embrace the
idyllic coastal settings, while surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, diving and mountain
biking are a few other ways to spend a sun-drenched afternoon away from the crowds.
Those seeking a more unique slice of Portuguese culture can join in the revelry
at a traditional festival; discover the melancholic music of fado (Portugal's answer
to the blues), sample the captivating Manueline architecture or go port wine tasting
along the Douro. Perhaps best of all, visitors can seek out the last remains of
Atlantis in the Azores or Berlenga Island, the historical first line of defence
from invaders past.