Portugal

Portugal’s fairly isolated location in the far south-western corner of Europe makes it the continent’s least visited and most underrated tourist destination. Fewer crowds make for a more relaxed, authentic experience. Pack your itinerary with visits to hilltop medieval castles, ornately decorated palaces, cobblestone villages and architecturally-stunning cities. The country abounds with fascinating culture, breathtaking natural beauty and a host of fun and varied activities. A single day can be spent hiking in lush green mountains, mingling with the friendly locals, and wandering through scenic vineyards sipping on famous, velvety port wine. Throw in plenty of fresh seafood, a coastline strewn with remote sandy beaches and an affordable price tag, and it makes for an ideal choice of holiday destination

Faial Island

 

Situated in the Azores Archipelago, Faial Island forms part of the Central Group of Azores islands which are famously known as the ‘Ilhas Triangulo’, comprising Pico, Sao Jorge and Faial. This picturesque island boasts incredible volcanic landscapes. Visitors can take in the stunning views from the central volcanic crater, visit the Porto Pim Whale Factory Museum, join a whale watching tour and enjoy a swim at Praia, which is one of the few spots on the island that offers sandy shores made up of dark volcanic sand. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Horta town and marina, and enjoy a hike around Capelinhos on the western coast.

 

Santa Cruz

 

Set on the east coast of Portugal’s Madeira Island, Santa Cruz beguiles travellers with its majestic 16th-century architecture, cobalt waters, sun-kissed shores and dramatic cliffs. The palm-lined pebble beach of Praia das Palmeiras is a favourite haunt of locals and travellers alike, while Praia de Machico is a sheltered half-moon of golden sand fringing a calm bay that is perfect for swimming. If you’re willing to take on the challenging trek to the top, make your way up the Pico do Facho mountain for superb views of the city or, for family fun, visit the renowned Santa Cruz water park, with its multiple pools and slides.

 

Ponta Delgada

 

Set on the southwestern coast of the island of São Miguel, Ponta Delgada serves as the capital of the Azores. It is one of the most beautiful towns within the archipelago, featuring unique Portuguese architecture seen in the whitewashed buildings lining the narrow cobbled alleyways. There is a wonderful array of attractions to see in this stunning island capital. Visitors can stroll along the Avenida seaside promenade and soak up the coastal views; discover Carvao Cave, the largest lava tube on the island; and view the Church of St. Sebastian and the old Portas da Cidade, city gates built in the 18th century. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the natural wonders of the island including the hot springs at Lagoa das Furnas, and the glistening Lagoa do Fogo.

 

Madalena

 

Resting on the western shores of the wondrous Pico Island in the Portuguese Azores lies the pleasant municipality of Madalena. With a backdrop of the awe-inspiring Mount Pico and sprawling chrome green hills, this magical destination is ideal for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts and leisure seekers. Visitors to this charming town can look forward to indulging in delicious local cuisine while admiring the spectacular views at the many shore-perched restaurants. Must-see attractions in the nearby surroundings include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed winery of Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico; the magical lava cave of Gruta das Torres; and the many historical monuments along the trekking trails of Pico Island.

 

Faja Grande

 

Located on the island of Lajes das Flores in the Portuguese Azores Archipelago, Faja Grande is Europe’s most westerly village. It is one of the largest centres on the island and serves as a great base form to explore the spectacularly scenic surrounds. Faja Grande is surrounded by fertile land and volcanic landscapes. Visitors can look forward to excellent land-based whale watching from Vigia da baleia a little structure on top of some steep cliffs overlooking the ocean, explore a network of scenic coastal hiking trails and view a number of charming churches including the Church of Sao Jose and the Chapel of Santo Antonio.

 

 

Vila Real de Santo Antonio

Located in the Algarve, Portugal, on the edge of the Rio Guadiana, Vila Real de Santo Antonio is a fascinating historic city. Founded in 1755, the town is designed on the same grid as Lisbon, radiating out from a lively square. Reached easily from across the river, Antonio makes for a lovely day trip from Spain. The chief attractions here are the enticing white sands of the Praia de Monte Gordo beach, lapped by warm Mediterranean waters and lined with restaurants and resorts, and its more naturally-decorated neighbour, the Blue Flag Praia Verde, among dunes, juniper and pines. The impressive array of heritage attractions includes the majestic thirteenth-century Castro Marim Fortress, the Igreja Matriz Church, featuring glorious stained-glass windows, and numerous old buildings. Meander along the picturesque marina or take a boat cruise along the river.

 

 

Lisbon

 

The gritty and yet picturesque city of Lisbon lies draped across a string of seven hills on the western Iberian Peninsula and is the westernmost and oldest city in western Europe. Its long and tumultuous history has resulted in an aesthetic characterised by a haphazard combination of old and new; however, the aesthetic chaos of Lisbon only adds to its appeal and its undeniable charm. Bright yellow centenarian trams rattle their way up steep, tree-lined, cobbled streets; ornate ironwork balconies overrun with bougainvillaea sit above elegant outdoor cafes housed in ancient whitewashed, red-roofed stone houses; and a flurry of detailed mosaics decorate the sidewalks. Ancient statues adorn grand squares and hidden gardens. A diverse culinary scene, a plethora of fascinating museums, and numerous castles make it easy to see why Lisbon is one of Europe’s most misunderstood and underrated cities.

 

Lisbon District

 

Lisbon district is located in southwestern Portugal and encompasses the country’s trendy capital, as well as beautiful Atlantic beaches. Lisbon City’s culture has distinctly modern elements such as street murals, quirky boutiques, hip cafes, and a thriving live music scene. However it is infused with reminders of ages past in the form of the ancient stone streets and candy-coloured buildings of its old town, as well as its hilltop Moorish castle and 16th-century monastery. Beyond the confines of the city, you can explore fairy-tale castles and manor houses in the forested area of Sintra, or relax on picture-perfect beaches in Cascais or Ericeira.

 

Porto

 

 

Located in northern Portugal along the Douro River estuary, the old sailing port of Porto is a World Heritage Site and the second largest city in Portugal. While retaining the timeless charm of a small town, Porto also has many of the modern advantages of a big city. Browse the expansive art collection at the Soares dos Reis National Museum, view the ornate interior of the Church of Sao Francisco and explore the medieval maze of stairways and terraces in the old quarter of Ribeira. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Vila Nova de Gaia area to sample some of Porto’s famous Port wine. Other popular attractions include the 12th-century Porto Cathedral, Clerigos Tower and the Harry-Potteresque Livraria Lello bookshop, showcasing some magnificent neo-gothic architecture.

 

Faro

 

The Algarve’s southernmost city, Faro has an elegant marina backed by a historical quarter dotted with white-washed Portuguese buildings, stately Catholic churches and age-old Moorish architecture. Its atmospheric squares and boulevards are paved with white and grey stone and lined with boutiques, designer stores, cafes and bars. There is no shortage of entertainment in this university town – it has a lively nightlife and a thriving arts and culture scene that caters to a wide array of audiences. There is plenty of opportunity for swimming and sun-bathing on the area’s golden coast, and nature lovers will be in their element in the nearby Rio Formosa Reserve, with its incredibly biodiverse lagoon and coastal zone.

 

Sintra

 

Set on the west coast of Portugal in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, the town of the same name is a wonderland of historical castles and palaces. These architectural jewels range from the 12th-century Moorish fortress, with its imposing stone walls and the elegant white facade of the medieval Sintra National Palace, to the eerie Gothic extravagance and exquisite gardens of the Quinta Regaleira. The most famous of its ancient citadels is the hilltop Pena Palace, a Romanticist masterpiece with fantastical turrets, domes, vaulted arches and crenellated walls, recently restored to its original purple and ochre colours. Make sure to take a wander through the city’s old quarter, where a network of narrow alleys lead past exclusive boutiques and souvenir shops, cosy taverns and traditional bakeries; or head to Pena Park for a stroll along its beautiful forested trails.

Lagos

 

 

Located along Portugal’s breathtaking Algarve coast, a short 31-minute drive from Portimao, Lagos is a bustling city with beautiful beaches, dramatic seaside landscape and a vibrant nightlife. Take a kayak tour around the coast to get the maximum effect of the region’s rose-hued cliffs, azure waters and golden sands, or spend a few hours wandering through the walled old town, with its historical churches and central piazza lined with sidewalk cafes. To explore the darker side of the city’s past, visit the Slave Market Museum, which traces the history of the slave trade in the Algarve from 1944 when slaves were first transported into Europe through Lagos. Lagos is the perfect springboard from which to explore Portugal’s southwest coast, with its idyllic beaches and excellent surf.

 

Coimbra

 

Set roughly halfway between Lisbon and Porto, Coimbra is a vibrant historical university town that flanks both sides of the Mondego River, with the old quarter on one side and the modern district on the other. A meander down the ancient town’s main street will take you past shops and cafes, culminating in an atmospheric plaza. The square is crowned by the 12th-century Santa Cruz Monastery, a majestic building of ivory-coloured stone with an elaborate arched entrance and exquisitely detailed interior decorated with blue tiles. The University of Coimbra, dating to 1537, is Europe’s oldest university and the town’s main architectural attraction, while the Quinta das Lagrimas estate, with its forests, bamboo groves, poppy fields and manicured gardens, is a tranquil oasis just outside the city.

 

Albufeira

 

Set on Portugal’s coast in the southern Algarve region, the once-sleepy fishing village of Albufeira has evolved into one of the area’s most alluring and vibrant holiday destinations, thanks to its outstanding beaches, dramatic scenery and lively social scene. There are over 20 beaches to choose from in Albufeira, including the main beach’s wide, crescent-shaped expanse of fine, pink-gold sand fringing a turquoise bay and sheltered by rugged cliffs. The streets of the old town behind it are frequented by street performers and scattered liberally with shops, bars and restaurants, while on the glittering Albufeira strip, you will find some of Portugal’s wildest nightlife venues, including the renowned Kiss club, which usually opens after midnight and pulsates till after dawn.

 

Obidos

 

Located in Portugal’s Oeste Subregion, Obidos is a 12th-century city enclosed by walls that once protected it from medieval marauders. The town’s piece de resistance is its imposing stone castle that dominates the skyline with its crenellated walls and towers and now functions as a high-end hotel. Another highlight is the view from the town’s ancient walls: it is possible to walk around the entire fort in about one hour, taking in superb 360-degree vistas of the city and its surrounds. After navigating the whole perimeter, there’s no better way to relax than by popping into one of the local cafes for a shot of Ginja de Obidos, a strong, sweet cherry liqueur traditionally served in chocolate cups. Art lovers will delight in the exhibits of 16th-, 17th- and 18th-century Portuguese works at the Municipal Museum.

 

Evora

 

Located in Portugal’s south-central Alentejo region, known for its glorious olive groves and traditional villages, the town of Evora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its profusion of historical architecture and archaeological sites. These include the ruins of an ancient Roman temple dating to about 1000 BC, the medieval University of Evora, founded in the 16th century, and several beautiful old churches. Oldest of all is the astonishing neolithic site at Almendres Cromlech, which dates back 8000 years and has been used for three millennia. One of the most intriguing and macabre religious sites is the Capela dos Ossos – the Chapel of Bones – which has interior walls encrusted with bones and skulls. Gourmands will delight in the mouth-watering local dishes, most notably the incredible range of delicious traditional desserts.

 

Cascais

 

Situated just 30 kilometres west of Lisbon, the coastal fishing town of Cascais, also a cosmopolitan suburb of Lisbon, is known as the region’s most popular holiday destination. Cascais provides the perfect setting for a day trip from Lisbon city. Once a favoured destination for Portugal’s nobility, today the town features impressive 19th-century architecture and traditional Portuguese charm. It has everything from excellent restaurants, a vibrant nightlife and world-class hotels blended with the traditional streets of the historic centre. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of exciting activities including: surfing at Guincho Beach, soaking up the sun at the beautiful Carcavelos Beach, hiking the hills of the Serra de Sintra National Park and discovering the picturesque town of Sintra. Make sure to try the delicious, fresh seafood specialities: sea bass, calamari, and cod served with olives, bread and Portuguese wine.

 

Sao Miguel Island

 

The largest of the Azores nine major islands, São Miguel is nicknamed the ‘Green Island’ for its lush volcanic hills, flourishing pineapple plantations and array of parks and gardens. These emerald pockets are complemented by shimmering crater lakes, steaming hot springs and traditional villages. São Miguel is home to the archipelago’s capital Ponta Delgada, where the age-old cobbled streets are dotted with historical Catholic churches featuring elegant white facades and lavish gilded interiors. Don’t leave the island without visiting its breathtaking lagoons – particularly Lagoa das Sete Cidades, for its legendary beauty, Lagoa do Fogo, surrounded by cliffs cloaked in primeval forest, and Lagoa das Furnas, where you can wallow in therapeutic thermal pools.

 

 

Aveiro

 

Situated on the west coast of Portugal, the city of Aveiro rests on the scenic shores of the Ria de Aveiro. These expansive saltwater lagoons were historically farmed for their fish and seaweed. This charming city is known for its canals, Art Nouveau buildings and energetic buzz. Dubbed the ‘Venice of Portugal’, Aveiro is home to a small network of picturesque canals. Visitors can look forward to visiting the Museu de Aveiro, viewing the bell tower of the Cathedral of Aveiro, and cruising down the canals in colourful ‘moliceiros’ – boats that were traditionally used for seaweed-harvesting. It provides an excellent jumping-off point from which to explore the nearby Sao Jacinto Nature Reserve which offers a network of scenic walking trails and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

 

Ponta Delgada

 

Set on the southwestern coast of the island of São Miguel, Ponta Delgada serves as the capital of the Azores. It is one of the most beautiful towns within the archipelago, featuring unique Portuguese architecture seen in the whitewashed buildings lining the narrow cobbled alleyways. There is a wonderful array of attractions to see in this stunning island capital. Visitors can stroll along the Avenida seaside promenade and soak up the coastal views; discover Carvao Cave, the largest lava tube on the island; and view the Church of St. Sebastian and the old Portas da Cidade, city gates built in the 18th century. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the natural wonders of the island including the hot springs at Lagoa das Furnas, and the glistening Lagoa do Fogo.

 

Tavira

 

Resting on Portugal’s stunning Algarve coast over the banks of the Gilao River, the ancient town of Tavira has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological surveys have found relics dating to as far back as the Bronze Age, and the city’s snaking alleyways are lined with mosques, palaces, elegantly weathered churches and regal 18-century homes which stand as testaments to the city’s Moorish and medieval eras. Just as impressive as Tavira’s architecture is its natural beauty: idyllic sandy beaches fringe its azure shores, while the Rio Formosa Nature Park is an astonishingly beautiful marshland reserve dotted with salts pans and candy-pink flamingo flocks. Make sure to visit the Pego do Inferno just outside the town, an awe-inspiring waterfall and lake of turquoise-green water offering the perfect spot for an invigorating dip.

Braga

Set northeast of Porto in Portugal’s far north, the city of Braga is famous for its rich heritage, exquisite churches, festivals, and unique wine. With a history spanning more than two thousand years, and having played an important role in the Christianization of the Iberian Peninsula in the 5th and 6th centuries AD, the city still has ties to its past in the form of its phenomenal and prolific old buildings. Architectural highlights include the Cathedral of Braga, with its eclectic mix of styles; and the Bom Jesus do Monte pilgrimage site, featuring astounding city views from its pinnacle; among others. Travellers visiting in June can join the revelry of the Festa de Sao Joao, with its spectacular parades, enthralling music and delicious traditional food. Make sure to try the town’s famously light, crisp and young Vinho Verde wine varietal.

 

Portimao

 

Resting on the western bank of the Arade River in the Algarve region of southern Portugal, the town of Portimao looks taken straight out of a travel brochure. Its idyllic beaches, temperate azure waters, and elegant marina dotted with rust and rose coloured buildings make for an exquisite holiday destination. This small city is also a shopping mecca, with a profusion of malls, retail parks, designer stores, and boutiques to suit every style and budget preference. Crowning the coast is the white-sand Praia de Rocha, one of Portugal’s most renowned beaches, backed by a boulevard of bars, restaurants, cafes and clubs creating a vibrant hub of nightlife. For fantastic views over the city, head up the lofty staircase leading to the 15th-century Santa Catalina fortress, perched atop an ocean cliff.

 

Guimaraes

 

Located in northern Portugal’s Braga district, the city of Guimaraes was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 due to its profusion of exceptional medieval architecture and monuments. It was Portugal’s first capital, the birthplace of the nation’s first king, and is referred to as the ‘birthplace of the Portuguese nationality’ or ‘the cradle city’. Take a wander through the ancient streets and be transported back through the ages – the city centre’s Gothic buildings are superbly preserved, while the imposing 11th-century Guimaraes Castle once defended the area from attacks by Norman and Moorish invaders. Don’t miss a trip up the Punha Mountain by cable car to enjoy some incredible views of the city. Guimaraes is also famous for its youthful atmosphere: half of its inhabitants are under the age of 30.

 

Fatima

 

Once a small farming village, Fatima was forever changed in 1917 when, according to witnesses, the Virgin Mary appeared several times to three shepherd children. A marble pillar with a statue of Our Lady marks the exact location of her visit and four million-pilgrims make the journey to see it each year. Fatima is now a bustling complex with a vast esplanade book-ended by two large churches. It is, however, a welcoming place no matter your religious inclination. Visitors can enjoy tours of the town’s Wax Museum, the Museum of Sacred Art and the Casa-Museu de Aljustrel, along with the splendid surrounding countryside and the multitude of souvenir shops selling everything from rosary beads to glow-in-the-dark statues of the Virgin Mary!

 

Vila Real

Vila Real lies in the hills of the Tras Montes region of northern Portugal, on the border with Spain. It is known for its architectural highlights, such as the ornate Baroque-style Mateus Palace, with its elaborate Baroque façade, and the Capela Nova, with it’s formidable granite columns. A short distance from the town lies an intriguing archaeological site – a 2000-year old Roman sacrificial altar where animals were killed and cleaned before being eaten. There is great hiking to be had in the Alvão Natural Park, where trails wind through forests and up steep mountain slopes. Keep your eyes peeled for wolves, wild boar and peregrine falcons.

 

 

Terceira Island

 

 

Dotting the northern Atlantic Ocean, Terceira is one of the larger islands of the Portuguese Azores Archipelago. The island features beautiful sandy beaches, numerous magnificent viewpoints, and even an amazing extinct volcano. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of wonderful activities and attractions such as: exploring the Monte Brasil, a scenic peninsula near Angra do Heroismo; sunbathing on the stunning Praia da Vitoria Beach lined with colourful buildings; and soaking up the hilltop views from Miradouro do Facho. Don’t miss the biggest highlight of the island: walking inside Algar do Carvao, an extinct volcano consisting of a long lava tube leading down to a rainwater-fed lagoon.

 

 

Sagres

 

Sagres is a scenic fishing village in the southern Algarve of Portugal, in the municipality of Vila do Bispo. Boasting four beaches, enormous cliffs, and a lovely harbour, the town is a serene favourite among outdoor enthusiasts. Praia da Mareta provides a vast stretch of soft sand, is usually sheltered and good for swimming, and is flanked by a line of excellent bars and restaurants. Praia do Tonel offers great waves for surfers, while Praia da Baleeira is reliably sheltered and Praia do Martinhal, just out of town, provides a quiet respite. History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the 15th-century Fortaleza de Sagres, which uses three 200-foot cliffs as its walls. Make sure to visit ‘the end of the world’ – Cabo de Sao Vicente – the westernmost point of mainland Europe, was once believed to be so and offers some truly awesome views.

 

Estoril

 

Situated on the breathtaking Portuguese Riviera in Portugal’s Cascais Municipality, a short train ride from Lisbon, the town of Estoril has long been a favourite haunt of the rich and famous. Stylish and sun-kissed by day, sizzling by night, it is best known for its beautiful sandy beaches, wide cerulean bays and glittering casinos. Casino do Estoril is the country’s largest casino, said to be the inspiration for the James Bond movies, and also offering glitzy art galleries, cabarets and clubs. The range of beaches here offer both idyllic calm swimming waters and surfing hotspots. Day-tripping from Estoril will take you to the seaside town of Cascais, with its legendary ‘Hell’s Mouth’ – a small, churning bay carved by the ceaseless pounding of waves into the rocky cliff face – and to spell-binding Sintra, with its elaborate history and fairytale castles.

 

Pico Island

 

Pico is the second-largest island of the Azores Archipelago. It features a variety of incredibly scenic landscapes characterised by lava fields, lush meadows, and Unesco listed vineyards which date back to the 15th century. Visitors can look forward to a range of wonderful island activities including sampling the local wine, which is made from grapes that have developed a distinct flavour owing to the combination of ocean and volcanic soil; explore the 5-kilometre-long Gruta das Torres, the largest lava tube in Portugal; and climb Mount Pico, the highest peak in the country. Other highlights include the visiting the Whaler’s Museum, trekking along the shore of Lake Capitao and swimming in the clear waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. Don’t miss a visit to the Museu do Vinho, a wine museum where visitors can learn more about this age-old island tradition.

 

Peniche

 

Situated in the in the Oeste Subregion, only an hour’s drive north of Lisbon, Peniche is a diamond in Portugal’s Silver Coast’s tiara, with its rocky peninsula of dramatic sea views, long swathes of sandy coast, and mellow atmosphere. The town has been a key fishing port for centuries and its historical walls and ancient harbour stand as a testament to its long and colourful past. These maritime roots are still firmly planted in the region’s present and its connections to the ocean are evident in its excellent seafood cuisine and the smorgasbord of aquatic activities on offer at the town’s surrounding beaches. Most notably, the town has become a surfing mecca, becoming an increasingly popular destination among travellers seeking great wave breaks.

 

Tomar

 

The historic city of Tomar is located in Portugal’s Santarem District, in the centre of the country and surrounded by gorgeous fields, forests and villages. Known as the ‘Templar City’, Tomar was planned as a headquarters for the Knights Templar, the religious military order mentioned in the famous book The Da Vinci Code, and there are many landmarks connected to the ancient group scattered throughout the town. The town is also known for its distinctive Portuguese Manueline architecture, the signature style from the Age of Discoveries of the twelfth century. Top attractions within the city include the Castle and Convent of the Order of Christ, the Synagogue of Tomar, Museu dos Fosforos, and the Casa Museu Fernando Lopes Graca. Beautiful parks, abundant hiking routes in the surrounds, and a thriving culinary scene add to Tomar’s allure.

Viana do Castelo District

 

Viana do Castelo is a coastal municipality and city in northern Portugal. The capital, Viana do Castelo, rests on the banks of the Lima River, surrounded by hills, woodlands, and ocean. To the west lies the Costa Verde, with its sparking bays and beautiful beaches, including the wild and rugged shores of Praia Norte and Praia do Rodanho. Don’t leave the region without visiting the quaint village of Ponte de Lima, said to be the country’s oldest town, and the walled village of Fortaleza, with its beautifully preserved castle.

 

 

Terceira Island

 

Dotting the northern Atlantic Ocean, Terceira is one of the larger islands of the Portuguese Azores Archipelago. The island features beautiful sandy beaches, numerous magnificent viewpoints, and even an amazing extinct volcano. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of wonderful activities and attractions such as: exploring the Monte Brasil, a scenic peninsula near Angra do Heroismo; sunbathing on the stunning Praia da Vitoria Beach lined with colourful buildings; and soaking up the hilltop views from Miradouro do Facho. Don’t miss the biggest highlight of the island: walking inside Algar do Carvao, an extinct volcano consisting of a long lava tube leading down to a rainwater-fed lagoon.

 

The Algarve

 

Situated in the south of Portugal, the Algarve is a region famed for its pristine golden beaches, fringed by dramatic cliffs and lapped by the azure waters of the Mediterranean. Visitors flock here to stay at the many luxury villas and spend days in the sand, sea, sun, and surf, or explore the many adventure-sport, sightseeing, and entertainment options. Stroll through the historic terraced hill villages and enchanting castle towns of the Algarve’s interior, enjoy a round of golf on a world-class course, and wonder at the region’s magnificent bird life. Known for its balmy weather, the Algarve boasts over 300 days of sun per year. Don’t miss a visit to more remote western coast with its picturesque coves and rugged rock formations.

 

Alentejo Region

 

The Alentejo Region of Portugal constitutes roughly the lower third of the country and is a beautiful farming area boasting gorgeous natural scenery, an array of grand historic architecture, and several magnificent beaches. Undulating hills, spectacular seaside cliff faces, pretty flowering fields and lovely green forested areas provide plenty for nature enthusiasts to explore. The UNESCO-listed capital, Evora, offers 2000 years’ worth of heritage to see, while various enormous ancient sites such as the mighty Amoreira Aqueduct, huge imposing forts and grand castles illustrate Alentejo’s intriguing past. Large and varied beaches offer both kitesurfing opportunities and sheltered, crystalline waters perfect for swimming. Make sure to watch the sunset from the Cabo Espichel headland, walk along the sky-scraping castle walls for awesome views, and try the abundant diversity of fresh seafood on offer.

 

 

Places in Portugal

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