Portugal

A virtually undiscovered jewel, Portugal offers its visitors rolling wheat fields and windmills, vineyards and long sandy beaches. Its towns and villages are an eclectic grouping of culture, mythology and architecture, peppered with local crafts and savoury foods. It is an adventure for the mind and the spirit that the world is just starting to enjoy to its full extent.

Getting to Portugal is both less expensive and less time than flying to many other European destinations. You could be only a few hours away from your luxury rental villa nestled near one of the quiet villages. Relax as you take in the sights of the forest while fado music drifts into your window, wrapping you in the sounds of the local culture.

The best times to visit this idyllic location are in the Autumn and spring. The delectable colours of the trees and flowers during these times are breathtaking. With a mild climate, the temperature stays within 58 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and 77 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. The rains in November lead to the snowy season in the higher elevations. Visitors looking to enjoy the snow and spend some time skiing the peaks can visit Serra de Estrela in the north central part of the country.

Outdoor enthusiasts can find entertainment all year round throughout Portugal. No matter where you stay in the country, there are picturesque vistas and lush landscapes to encounter.

In the northern part of the country fishing is plentiful thanks to the abundant rainfall this area receives. Cradled in the rugged hills of Iberia are some of the best stocked streams in the country . Anglers can also hunt their quarry along the four-hundred ninety-six miles of coastline. Hire or rent a boat for the day and enjoy deep sea fishingalong the north-east flowing currents.

Still a diamond in the rough, much of Portugal is still undeveloped. Sweeping expanses of green grasses dappled with trees and flowers make for perfect golf. Take a day to visit the world-class course in Algarve. Or make your way to Lisbon or Estoril and relax for eighteen holes on either of their courses. Many of the golf areas are within sight of the sea, so relax in the natural beauty surrounding you with the crash of the waves and singing of the sea birds for your music.

If you are looking for entertainment on the water than near it, charter a boat at the Cascais Yacht Club or at any of the marinas near the coast. The surfing in Guincho's windswept coasts draws enthusiasts from all over Europe.

Find adventure on terra firma and hike the western region of Portugal. Here are the main migration routes for birds moving between Africa and Europe. Make your way to Peneda-Geres, where along with the migratory birds you can see wild boar and horses and the occasional wolf roaming the forests. Or hike to the mythical end of the world near Sagres.

Portugal is rumoured to house the remains of one of the most famous mythological cities in world history. Along with the unfettered landscapes all through Portugal, the surrounding sea holds its own mystery. Mythologists believe that the Azores islands are remnants of the lost continent of Atlantis. Between these islands, cyclones swirl and fog can swallow boats trying to make a voyage around them, adding to the drama surrounding the region.

Since the 1600's, Vila Nove de Gais has been the headquarters of the port-wine trade. The rolling hills covered in pungent vineyards provide visitors with a look into one of the oldest customs in Portugal. Visitors can take a tour and taste some of the nectar created here.

It's easy to find entertainment in the bustling city of Lisbon and the beaches of Costa do Sol. Here vacationers can find everything from a relaxing day on endless beaches under the sun to dining at some of the finest restaurants in the country. Those looking to escape from the winter cold come to the resorts in Costa do Sol to enjoy a day at the spa or fabulous live entertainment.

If you are looking for unique local culture, its easy to find in Lisbon at the Museu da Fundacao Calouste Gulbenkian. The collection of the Armenian oil czar Calouste Gulbenkian is housed here including an eclectic grouping of Asian and European sculpture, painting, carpets and furniture all surrounded by lush, vibrant gardens.

Try out our holiday rental accommodation direct from owner including luxury villas with pools, rental apartments, and some beach front villas for the ultimate in beach holidays.

Although small on the map, Portugal looms large in its mythology and culture. Find your way to mystery and beauty by visiting Portugal today.