Portugal was founded in 1143, making it one of the oldest nations in Europe. Portugal is named after its second largest city, Porto and is home to as many as 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranking Portugal 8th in Europe and 17th in the world. Every year more than 20 million tourists visit the country and if you haven’t already been a part of this number, you are missing out on witnessing a hub of beauty, heritage, contemporary and all things good!
Priyanka Saxena Ray
One of the things that tourists notice most when they visit Portugal is the hospitality and friendliness of the Portuguese, who are always ready to help if they are stopped on the street and asked for information. With the longest bridge in Europe, Portugal is also a very popular destination from India for those looking for a Euro break and an extension to their Spain and Morocco itineraries. The total flight duration from Portugal to India is 10 hours, 42 minutes and India is 4:30 hours ahead of Portugal.
Portugal has seven regions, which in itself indicates that there is a lot to visit and experience in this magnificent country. Its rich history and culture, gastronomy and wines, are among the main attractions, not to mention the beaches, surfing, music festivals, golf, the varied landscapes and, above all, the Portuguese people, who are seen as affable, open and sincere.
The presence of the Atlantic Ocean and the climate, with very sunny summers and mild winters make Portugal a holiday destination renowned for sun and sea and walks on the beach throughout the year. In fact, the Portuguese coast is almost a single beach extending more than 850 km and offering a diversity of landscapes that allows you to choose between the rougher and cooler sea in the north and the warm, placid waters of the south. There are large stretches of golden sand for those who love an expansive horizon, and also little coves with orange tinted rocks and cliffs. Of the wide variety of beaches, more than 300 have first rate conditions and earn the accolade of Blue Flag beaches. Nearly 200 are accessible beaches.
The Natural Parks and Reserves, Geoparks and Biosphere Reserves recognised by UNESCO have ensured that Portugal is also a destination that is thoroughly appreciated for enjoying outdoor activities. Over the years, following nature trails on foot or by bike has been a good choice for those who like to combine physical exercise and contact with the local culture. But the paths that are followed are also an encounter with spirituality. The Portuguese Road to Santiago and the Paths of Fátima are increasingly sought out by those who like walking a purpose, focusing on knowledge, nature and culture. Portugal is also seen as an important centre of Marian devotion. The Shrine of Fátima, which celebrated the Centenary of the Apparitions of Our Lady in May 2017, is its greatest exponent, attracting thousands of visitors from around the globe every year.
On the mainland and in the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores alike, it is easy to see that Portugal offers ideal conditions for surfing. Surfers of all types find on the Portuguese coast the largest number of spots with the least distance between them, where they compete in events from the most important championships in the world, like the Rip Curl Pro Portugal.
There are perfect tubular waves in Peniche, giant waves in Nazareth [Nazaré], and the longest in Europe in Figueira da Foz. Ericeira, meanwhile, was the 1st Surfing Reserve in Europe and 2nd at world level. So you see, you can come to Portugal a number of times and always get a different wave!
A mild climate, more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, 850 km of fabulous beaches, a valuable heritage, which tells the story of a country dating back home more than eight centuries with the oldest borders in Europe, a unique Mediterranean-influenced cuisine, rich in flavours and aroma; a great diversity of landscapes and leisure options for the whole family only a few kilometres apart; a rich cultural life, with some of the best music festivals in the world; more than 90 golf courses; outstanding spots for surfing and other water sports; a relaxed lifestyle, friendly people and quality tourist facilities, with excellent restaurants and hotels throughout the country; these are just some of the things that make Portugal a perfect destination that should not be missed! Below we give you the best of the country’s 7 regions for your next holiday…
Porto E Norte
It was in the Porto and in the North regions that Portugal was founded in the 12th century and the Portuguese became a people and a nation. The region is crossed by the River Douro which enters Portugal between the ravines and mountains of the interior to flow through the entire World Heritage landscape where the Port and Douro wines are produced. In this area of mountains and natural parks, the region’s heritage is seen in its castles, such as the one in Guimarães, and the shrines and churches which are the stage for pilgrimages in the summer.
Centro de Portugal
In the interior of the country, there are mountains and villages of granite and schist. Serra da Estrela, the highest peak in mainland Portugal, is the star of the mountains, with its endless landscapes and glacial lagoons. But there are also the Lousã, Açor and Caramulo ranges, where you can discover nature by hiking or by bike.
Lisboa Region
Lisbon is the place to be! Frequently chosen as one of the best destinations in Europe, the capital of Portugal is an old city, full of history and vestiges of the past and yet, at the same time cosmopolitan, multicultural, full of culture and life. From historical and heritage areas, from the Baixa Pombalina to Belém (where only yards separate the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém tower, both classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, together with the Monument to the Discoveries), to the newest part of the city – Parque das Nações with its fabulous Vasco da Gama bridge (the longest in Europe and one of biggest in the world),to the characteristic neighborhoods of Alfama, Mouraria, Sé and Bairro Alto, with their winding streets, centuries-old houses and traditional shops, Lisbon is always surprising.
Alentejo
A land of Great Plains, cork oaks, vineyards, and excellent wines, of immaculately whitewashed houses, the Alentejo is also a land of outstanding beaches, some almost deserted in the hottest summer months. The largest continuous stretch of beaches in Europe for about 60 kms long is perfect for a few days’ rest and relaxation, but also for lovers of surfing and other water sports, who will find plenty of options here.
Algarve
With a coastline stretching 230 kilometres, more than 130 beaches, the beaches in Algarve are constantly ranked as some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and considered as Europe’s Best Beach Destination by the World Travel Awards. The sea, which is always inviting for a dip or a wide range of water sports, the mild temperatures and award winning golf courses, the Algarve also offers gastronomical experiences.
Azores
In the middle of the Atlantic, nine small islands surprise with their absolutely stunning landscapes. The Azores are an archipelago of rare beauty, full of tradition and history, with plenty of leisure activities for the whole family, both at land and sea. In Sao Miguel, the largest island and home to the capital Ponta Delgada, you must visit the incredible volcanic lakes of Sete Cidades, Fogo and Furnas.
Madeira
Madeira is a green oasis, with incredible natural beauty, right in the Atlantic Ocean. With two thirds of its landmass a protected area and the largest Laurissilva Forest in the world – a world heritage site – flowers and exotic fruits abound here all year round, thanks to the almost tropical climate. Those who enjoy outdoor activities and different degrees of challenge in walks along the levadas (old irrigation canals) or mountain trails that open out into lush landscapes and unique biodiversity will find the perfect destination here. The capital, Funchal, has an interesting history linked to the days of the discoveries and holds various events throughout the year, such as the Madeira Flower Festival, Carnival and the always spectacular fireworks that mark the beginning of the New Year.
So this holiday season, pack up your bags and head to Portugal!
