Sense of travel

Travelling is about getting new unforgettable experience, seeing beautiful and different places, learning something new.

Discovering something that inspires and surprises! Makes us think, and also have a great time and recharge the batteries.

Wandering around famous Alentejo region of Portugal, a historical and cultural heritage of old Europe is definitely one of such experiences. We love exploring its medieval castles and enjoy top hills view across valleys and villages.

Feeling adventurous? You are most welcome to join!

Sweet sweet Alentejo

Travelling around Alentejo region of Portugal is unforgettable cause of its lands beauty, roman ruins or medieval castles. 

Or deserted ocean beaches and beautiful vineyards.

But the most special thing here is.. It's lovely people and their way of making traditional dishes.

Richest gastronomy ever is this area great specialty. And a true nomads delight.

Come join us!

Unusual travel destinations

Most interesting and unusual travel destinations.. We appreciate new impressions and new emotions they give us so much in fact!

And sometimes the most unforgettable trips happen to areas already 'famous' as a destination, but only if you look at your trip planning from a very different point of view.

Ask me how to make it happen and get the best of it! )

Surprising discoveries

Fascinating places. This is what we like to discover when travelling around such special places as Porto city. Sometimes you walk around interesting but famous sites and don't realise that behind some wall there is another world 
Indeed. The most interesting are the hidden gems not too many people get to see. But we do as we follow our specially planned routs! 

Old city of Porto has gone through so many historical changes, so much happened in between these stunning hills around river Douro curves
Old legends still live here 
And we like to listen to them! 

Come join our journeys. 
And be surprised!

Gastronomic adventure

Travelling around magical Douro Valley of Portugal is always a gastronomic adventure. 

Besides splendid views, shining river surrounded by brightly coloured hills, eclectic bridges and baroque facades of old vineyards - what you also find special in this area is its culinary traditions, different to all you've tasted before and very diverse from place to place.

Come join our trip here and experience something unique, feel totally relaxed and happy at the end.

In Portugal

Feeling very happy

Making your way around exotic wonders of Portugal with MENU Portugal is always a great experience. 

We personally love making sure our guests are happy and feel they get to know best hidden gems of this country, so rich culture and natural marvels.

Showing dear guests around Quinta da Regaleira personally, what a pleasure

In Sintra, Portugal royal village

Never enough

We constantly hear from our grateful guests that there was not enough time to enjoy Portugal!
Be it a week or a two - there is always so much more to see, taste, discover, enjoy

Does not matter if your choice is history or gastronomy orsea sports - or all that and much more - you will always have an unforgettable experience here, in all these fascinating and so different areas, cities, beaches, castles

So always come again and continue the beautiful journey!
With us!

Greatest places. To be visited and admired. Portugal.

COIMBRA UNIVERSITY is recognised as a WORLD HERITAGE by UNESCO

The University of Coimbra has now been recognized as World Heritage site at the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee, which is happening now in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

The great University joins the historic centers of Angra do Heroismo (Azores) ofPortugal, city of Porto, Évora and Guimarães, the grand monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaça, the Convent of Christ (Tomar), the Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower, the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, the ancient engravings of Foz Coa, the region of Alto Douro Wine Region, the landscape of vineyard culture of the Pico Island (Azores), the fortifications of Elvas and Madeira laurel.

Portugal is a truly unique place!

Magic of Atlantic Islands. Azores, Portugal.

TERCEIRA ISLAND

Terceira's port once welcomed galleons laden with spices from the Orient, and gold and silver from the Americas Even today, its historic city streets transport you back to the 16 and 17 centuries. Out in the country, flat green fields in a chessboard pattern are dotted with dairy cows, and white houses nestle against the blue sky.

Terceira's locals have been welcoming people to the island for centuries, and enjoy traditional pastimes like street bullfighting, “tourada à corda”, and modern sports such as golf.

With its seamless blend of past and present, Terceira island is indeed a perfect place to spend exciting and complete holiday.

ANGRA DO HEROÍSMO, A WORLD HERITAGE SITE

Built in the 16 century, Angra do Heroísmo was the first European urban centre, and has achieved World Heritage status as a result. Its old streets highlight the city's fine architectural heritage, as do its churches, palaces and museums, together with the fortress

that defended the city and port from pirates.

Once you've sampled the delights of Angra do Heroísmo, you should visit the historic town of Praia da Vitória. Here you'll find the gothic church of São Sebastião, built by the first

settlers, and the manor houses, churches and chapels of São Carlos, Fontinha, São Brás and Lajes masterpieces of imperial architecture dedicated to the cult of the Holy Ghost.

BEAUTIFUL, UNSPOILT COUNTRYSIDE

Terceira's unspoilt countryside complements the fine historical monuments of its towns. The island boasts green landscapes and mountain ranges that are great for walks, beyond

which you can glimpse flower-dotted fields and the blue of the sea and sky.

A walk in the hills will also unearth some of Terceira's geological wonders, like the Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz, a 15 km wide volcanic crater, and the caves of Algar do Carvão with its lava stalactites and stalagmites.

You'll also find a challenging golf course on the island, and two marinas that give Terceira a cosmopolitan atmosphere by attracting yachts crossing the Atlantic. The surrounding sea offers much for those wanting an active holiday. Fishing, diving, surfing, windsurfing and sailing are the main sports on the island and those who enjoy swimming can take advantage of Terceira's natural pools – formed when volcanic lava met the cold sea.

From May to September, Terceira is the scene of many colourful traditional festivals. The Festival of the Holy Ghost, Festas do Espírito Santo is repeated in every village, and followed by a large banquet.
While the centrepiece of the Festival of St. John, Festas Sanjoaninas , is a procession of enthusiastic crowds.

Festival season also means good food. Popular traditional dishes include “alcatra” – an exotic spicy beef stew plus black pudding and octopus, whilst local sweets are varied and delicious.

No meal on Terceira would be complete without a glass of Biscoitos wine, a local speciality with its own dedicated museum

by visitportugal

Medieval beauty

Impressive history. Grand Heritage.
Breathetaking beauty of this authentic fortress inspires.

Castle of Sortelha is a symbol of the long history of this borderland village of medieval foundation. It is only14 kilometers from the Sabugal area
It stands on a very top of a rocky hill and is surrounded by beautiful valleys. Great panoramas are visible from its ruined walls.

The Castle was constructed mainly for defensive purposes in 1228 by King Sancho IIand played a significant role in contries history. He chose the location with a great care, making sure that Sortelha Castle performed as a one of the strongest and best fortified strategic points in his kingdom

He started to be built at 760 m on a high plateau. Later on its structure ware reinforced and re-modified by King Dinis and King Fernando.

Sortelha Castle was an important defensive fortress and now an amazing attraction point due to its splendid location. It allowed a perfect view of the entire region which in itself is one step ahead of the action potential enemy.

Its donjon rises high and is visible from a long distance. Inside its territory there are charming houses, calling us back to medieval times

Portugal. Fascinating trails.

Portugal - Best Hotels in the World!

'Hot list' of Conde Naste Traveller highlighted the Best New Hotels in the world

Fascinating hotel (Pousada) in historic Citadel of Cascais, Hotel do Carmo in Lisbon, Carmo Boutique Hotel in Ponte de Lima, Fazenda Nova in Tavira, Villa Extramuros in Evora (in Serra de Aires) are among 62 Best Hotels in the World 2013

These six units in Portugal were distinguished in the category of Best New Hotels under $300 in assessment that involved more than a thousand hotels worldwide.

The 'hot list' of 2013 of Conde Naste Traveller, which is one of the most reputable publications in the sector, assessed all areas, from architecture and design to quality of service and rooms.

The result distinguished both larger or smaller historical units, as amazing Pousada of Cascais of Pestana Group and other, as boutique hotel in Ponte de Lima or small Pousada in Tavira that has only ten rooms. Various details and originality are highlighted in every hotel, as pool area in Corbusier style 'villa' Extramural or enviable view of Lisbon from the best room in the Hotel do Carmo.

Travel and discover the best!

Taste and travel in great taste!

Travel, taste, discover, get the best of life and degustations here in the one of the most beautiful places in the world
Douro river Valley. An art of world best wines gem.

The stunning Douro Valley provides extraordinarily good conditions for producing red, white and port wines.
A plethora of grape varieties can be found in the Douro, including Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and Castelao.

Happy travelling! Happy tasting!!

Incredible how close THIS  is to an old European capital..  And how divine this Atlantic ocean coast area is.

Lisbon region is an amazing travel destination.

Portugal coastal villages amaze by its variety of landscapes, activities, views changing day and night. Different light, different tide - and a place appears different, more tranquil or more shiny!
These walks along the ocean.. These amazing ours of sunbathing and fun, or maybe just relaxing and meditating sitting on a rock, admiring a view, breathing this salty air.
This is definitely called perfect holydays

And let alone the regional gastronomy offers in here! Every area has it's own specialities, and every restaurant along Lisbon region (Cascais and Sintra areas) has got something really tasty to surprise you

Azenhas do Mar village is one perfect example
Even when the sun goes down and there is no more sunbathing - it is even better, now we can enjoy the views from the top of big rocks around it!

Then sit down at a family restaurant at the very bottom of the rock
And feel that life is perfect

Travel happily. Discover wonders of Portugal!

Creative travelling

Creative travelling. Is when you go off beaten tracks and choose something unusual
Portugal - is a land of unusual. Just look:

Sunniest beaches and World Records waves - check
Unique wines, result of unusual grape casts and hot/cold winds from 2 continents - here they are
Grand river valleys. Endless fields and mountains with 800 year old Castles on top - yes it is here, called World heritage 

Most delicious seafood and rural interior cuisine variations? unheard of in the rest of the world, but here

Palaeolithic monuments? Yes here it is. In the middle of Portugal 

Travel. Discover. Be special and find special.
In Portugal 

Douro. Much more.

Speaking of the great Douro Valley of Portugal is not just talking about a river or a region. 

It's much more than that ... It is its heritage, beauty, history and its people that make it so special.

Getting to know Douro is a pleasant journey, discovery of unique places with a history, culture, gastronomy and amazing people

There are many ways of exploring it 
And a boat, smaller and more private one or more of a party-group traveller - is a great choice 
Water brings balance and good vibes into life. And River Douro waters certainly do so, arranged in colourful valleys and delicious wine producing areas 
Do not forget to stop and indulge in various  tastings 

Happy travelling! 

The most desirable activity in the world.. Travelling!

Travelling is one of the best, most interesting things in the world, one of our strongest desires always and something that inspired, gives us new impression, emotions, teaches us and simply makes us happy! 

Something that we wish to experience, to do again and again, this small and sometimes big pleasures of life. Travelling.
Discovering new beautiful things, listening to stories of fascinating places and great people, taste most delicious things ever! Tis is the target, this is the dream that always keeps us going.

Maybe not all the trips we make become thus unforgettable - in a positive note - experience and make us happy. But in a place called Portugal it is practically impossible.
Most luxurious spa retreats and Michelin starred spots, yes, there are many here, but not only. Most pleasant sometimes are the simple things, as observing an endless view of a river valley and then proving delicious regional wines right there. 

And this is for everyone, for one with a great taste, curiosity, way of living the life as a special one, going off beaten tracks and loving discoveries!

Portugal National Park of Gerês region is exactly what make such nomad dreams come true.
Endless lands, heritage monuments, mountains and waterfall, most charming little villages ever, offering you a boutique hotel accommodation and feeling at home, offering delicious regional culinary variations to indulge in and numerous extreme sports and adventure experiences to challenge yourself!

Travel with taste, curiosity, discover and prove new.
Come to Gerês, even if you've been to Portugal and any other natural resources - this one will no doubt surprise you a lot.
And give an unforgettable experience and excitement!

Only in Portugal

Discovery. Travel adventure. Famous Monsaraz.

Beautiful legends live here.. Mesmerising views, pleasant discoveries. Portugal is so rich indeed. 
And famous Alentejo region gems are a curious travellers 'must' destination.

Monsaraz Castle. Dive into history! Into this beauty of ancient narrow streets, from where you see endless lands of this 'terra alenrejana', beautiful lands, home of best wines and delicious cheese.
Streets of Monsaraz appear a mysterious yet charming labyrinth, calling you to get to explore them when the sun is bright or when it goes down, painting sky in all shades of colours and reflections a beautiful rainbow on snow white Monsaraz walls. 

This legendary place has so many stories to tell. Stories that changed a history. Fascinating stories of love, war, dedication, power, belief and hard work. 

Come discover. Learn. Enjoy!

Travel and discover! Fascinating rural views and craft. Portugal

Heritage

Discover the cultural heritage of the Algarve as seen in its architecture, its landscape and its traditions. The echoes of the past can still be heard in the old lanes of the town, with their traditional houses dating from the golden age of cork when São Brás de Alportel was one of the main centres of the cork industry in the country.

In these parts, old Moorish legends can still be heard, with the bell of the main church in the background. A few metres away, it is well worth having a look at the Jardim da Verbena, close to the Old Episcopal Palace, and then walk along the “calçadinha”, the cobbled Roman road. In the countryside can be seen water-wheels and other hydraulic devices from a bygone era.

This thematic hub is the entry point for visitors into the wonderful world of cork.

Nature

On the way up to the hills of the serra, enjoy the dazzling scenery, with cork oaks as far as the eye can see! Breathe in the pure air, listen to the birds singing and experience an eco-system into which human beings merge harmoniously. Walk along the old footpaths, discover some of the habitats of Rede Natura 2000, in the hope of catching a glimpse of a Bonelli’s eagle or even the very rare Iberian lynx. In this natural setting, you will find out about the techniques for removing the cork from the trees and stacking it up, techniques that have been employed for centuries.

Rural Life

With us you can rediscover the old customs of the rural Algarve, while you ramble through the fields and the villages of the Barrocal, carefully whitewashed in a clear affirmation of their Arab heritage.

This is a unique opportunity to speak to farmers involved in their daily toil and to try out some of the most authentic culinary treats. Enjoy the honey, the ‘aguardente’ brandy, the liqueurs and local sweets, which incorporate the flowers and berries of the serra so well, and the dried fruits from the dryland orchards: carob, figs and almonds.

by Rota da Cortiça

Beach paradise. Close to you. Portugal

Wish to feel this joy, this happiness, just enjoying yourself and this very moment..? Portugal beach paradise is what where you have got to be, that's right 
One of the most impressive and diverse ocean coast landscape in the world

And maybe it's good that not that many people are aware of it
Cause besides several famous spots there are hundreds of true gems, this hidden secret spots
Where you feel this pure bliss, tranquility and on top of the world
And nothing disturbs you
Only albatross accidentally screams too close to you. But it's rather cute!

The Atlantic Ocean coastline is immense and very diverse from region to region here, besides natural beauty and its variety it has all the best to offer for families and little kids, extreme sport lover, gourmands and great wine appreciators. And party goers too )

Get to discover it. Only in Portugal! )

Romantic travel. Portugal

Romance.. Most special time. There is no better setting for it than in magic Portugal Douro valley, one of most beautiful wine regions in the world

Now. Just two of you. Sharing unforgettable, so pleasant experience, discovering, learning, admiring new sensations, tasting and finding .. Together! 

This is what make sit so special, so beautifully strong - your romance, passion, this amazing experience you've shared
And the beauty is in simple things!

Sunset kiss. Warm cuddle while admiring an endless Douro panoramas. 

Sharing a glass or two of delicious wines of the region, tasting, discussing, finding your own unforgettable one
Or ones ) because here you will share so many special moments, so much joy and great emotions, you'll keep this feeling in you memory forever
And it'll make your love strong 

And love of travelling. Of exploring this magnificent region. And many more beautiful secrets of Portugal, the ones that will open your eyes to a beauty of simplicity, its regional gastronomic delights and will give you much food for thought and many romantic moments and stories to tell )

Be romantic. Feel happy. Travel. Discover Portugal together - and keep your flame going

Travellers delight. Beauty of history. Lisbon, Portugal

Absolutely unforgettable.. One of most imposing. That is why Lisbon is that famous and is considered as one of best 5 European destinations.

Because of its World Heritage status sites.

This cathedras is something special. Although it's almost impossible to distinguish something among this variety of unique sites here.. But still

Towering above the cityscape from a side of famous romantic Alfama area hill, this ancient and one of most important cathedrals has got thousands of stories to tell

It witnessed so much during centuries and centuries of great wars, great developments, great reins, catastrophs, parades and life stories.

Grand Sé de Lisboa

When you enter it you found yourself in another époque. Another reality. Very strong feeling.

And besides this - it is a fascinatingly beautiful monuments, still transmitting its lights to us, as almost 900 years ago

Discover! Explore one of the most romantic, mysterious, beautiful cities. Lisbon. Portugal.

Portugal. Haute – cuisine paradise.

Delicious news.
Portugal Restaurant Week has officially started, meaning there is an opportunity to indulge in tasting Chef created menus only for €20 in top rated gourmet restaurants!

For the first time, the Restaurant Week is happening in the entire country.
From 14 to 24 March, 151 restaurants in 14 districts offer these unique opportunity
Lisbon, Porto, Cascais and Loulé are the most famous for their own Restaurant Weeks, and now participating in this global party, big celebration of national gem, gastronomic traditions!

And now its the districts of Aveiro, Braga, Bragança, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Evora, Faro, Guarda, Leiria, Lisbon, Oporto, Setúbal, Vila Real, Viseu and many more that are competing to be most delightful gourmet traveller destination

Each participant is a star indeed.. Difficult to choose the Best. And desire is actually to taste as much as possible!

Now. Book the tables!

Enjoy. Only in Portugal

Most beautiful things. Water views. Aveiro city. Portugal

Mirror of this water and bright beautiful sky. Fantastic start of a day. 

Aveiro, Portugal - a unique place, where traditional historucal architecture combines with a unique natural landscape, reason to call this charming town on a coastline 'Portuguese Venice' 

And its gastronomy!
Freeshest seafood! Typical famous sweets! Oh. Delicatessens. 

Come over! Discover. Enjoy 

Travel. Romance. Magnificent Costa Alentejana area of Portugal

The sun is our greatest asset. On the Costa Alentejana, summer can stretch from March until November. From Alcácer do Sal to Odemira, there are miles of beaches to discover. From the extensive beaches in the north to the little coves hidden among the cliffs in the south, a calm and secret ocean awaits you. No traffic, no crowds.

Located in Southwest Portugal, the Costa Alentejana is a region of unique characteristics, accessed in a few hours from any major European airport. Few destinations in the world combine, in such harmony, development and tradition with comfort and nature, an itinerary of sporting, cultural and leisure activities with the tranquillity of a natural and built landscape that invites tranquillity, romance and relaxation.

This whole scene of natural life can be covered in romantic walks on foot, horseback, boat, or along the graceful roads that cut through the landscape. Because time is on our side and a single moment, if well spent, can last a lifetime.

Beaches are just one of many features of the Costa Alentejana. Throughout the region you will find incredible, unspoiled landscape, natural lakes, reservoirs and places where you could be forgiven for thinking that the sun was setting just for you.

Celebrating unique moments

The Costa Alentejana is romantic. It is a destination of choice for those who love beauty, nature, life and love, above all, for those who want to share this with someone. For a vacation away from the daily routine that distracts us from what is truly important or just to celebrate a special event, here you will find numerous hotels, pousadas, restaurants and bars waiting to be discovered by two. Many experiences only make sense lived side by side.

Hotels overlooking the sea, pousadas built between silence and the landscape, rural tourism accommodation in the heart of nature. The Costa Alentejana is a map of charming places for every romance. Modern and elegant, natural and discreet, elegant and sincere.

Life should be celebrated at the table, with a cuisine refined over centuries and accompanied with exceptional wines. From cosy typical restaurants to areas of the latest design, you’re in good company, with the surf breaking on the sand and the sky sprinkled with stars.

After toasting to the present and the future, come and discover the past.

The castles, churches, museums and ruins that remind us, that long ago, the Roman Empire arrived here, at the gates to the Atlantic. And lose yourself in fairs, festivals and processions.

You can dance the whole year to the tune of local songs or wait for the big summer festivals, when the Costa Alentejana becomes the world capital of music.

Love needs time and space. And time and space are precisely what the Costa Alentejana specializes in. Time and space to leave the world behind for a while. Time and space to break the routine and be free. Time and space for romance. Time and space to rediscover each other and celebrate.

by CostaAlentejana