Enjoy every moment of travel experience in Lisbon!

Beauty, modernity and diversity of experiences to enjoy in Lisbon!

The best moments since arrival at the airport or cruise terminal, passing by heritage sites in Belém and most picturesque places of old Europe.

Magical Porto panoramic views

Aerial view of one Europe's most charismatic cities and the Douro Valley .
Oporto is one of the last undiscovered European metropolises.
It is an ancient port steeped in history and tradition. It is a highly atmospheric place that has become known for its monuments by renowned architects (Gustave Eiffel's Dona Maria Bridge, Nicolau Nasoni's Clerigos Tower, Rem Koolhaas' Casa da Musica, or Siza Vieira's Serralves Museum), but just when you think you don't know much about this city, think again. 
This is the city that originated and named Port Wine.
In 2014, Porto was elected The Best European Destination .

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! )

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

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!

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!

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

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! )

Algarve in Portugal - an idyllic year-round destination.

The Algarve, derived from the Arabic term ‘Al Gharb’ meaning ‘The West’, is situated in the extreme south of Portugal. The region is a delight to visit all year round with golden sandy beaches on the coast offering a haven for sun seekers whilst the sleepy hillside villages further inland offer peace and tranquillity for those looking to get away from the stresses and strains of everyday life.

Must See

Resorts including Albufeira, Armação de Pêra, Praia da Rocha, and Vilamoura, are among the Algarve's main holiday destinations. Offering an excellent selection of accommodation, beaches, entertainment and a variety of nightlife ranging from cabaret shows at casinos to lively discos and quaint, welcoming bars, it is no surprise that the Algarve has visitors coming back year after year.

The coastal city of Faro is the region’s capital. Faro stands out as an important commercial, artistic and ncultural centre. Often simply passed through by visitors as a gateway, the city in fact offers fascinating architecture as part of the region’s rich history.

Sagres, on the western coast was the place where Infante D. Henrique (Henry the Navigator) founded a school of navigation during the 15th century thus instigating a culture of maritime exploration. Moving east, Henry the Navigator also had a great influence in Lagos. Set in one of the largest bays in the Algarve, Lagos was once an important naval centre and is now an attractive, bustling town. Evidence of its important naval history is still visible today with a large statue of Henry the Navigator gazing out to sea situated in one of the town’s main squares

Despite being most famous for its sandy beaches, the inland villages of the Algarve offer visitors peace and quiet in its lush green hills. The cork and oak forests are a haven for nature lovers and provide the natural habitat for the Iberian Lynx, now an endangered species. Just as interesting are the Algarve mountains of Serra de Monchique where you can relax at the natural thermal spa of Termas de Monchique once described as ‘sacred’ by the Romans.

Tavira, situated on the edge of the Ria Formosa Nature Park, is a must-see for visitors to this area of the Algarve. This pretty town is abundant with historic churches and fine mansions as well as a plethora of excellent restaurants where you can sample delicious local seafood.

Once a rich and powerful city, today Silves is a sleepy town lying in the foothills of the Serra de Monchique mountains. Believed to have been founded by the Phoenicians, its cathedral and red sandstone castle remind visitors of its rich and industrious Moorish past, which came to an end after a three-month siege led by King Sancho I in 1189.

Silves boasts the best preserved castle in the Algarve. Built on the site of the 11th-century Palace of the Verandahs, its turreted walls dominate the town and provide panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. The town's 13th-century Gothic Cathedral, built on the site of a former mosque, contains a number of Crusader tombs and a jasper statue of Nossa Senhora da Conceição believed to date from the 14th century.

Vila Real de Santo António is 53 miles (85km) east of Faro and is neatly designed on a geometric grid system. Radiating out from the central square, the Praca Marquês de Pombal with its dramatic paved radial mosaic floor and central obelisk is edged with orange trees. The town is on the west bank of the River Guadiana. Back in the 17th century the original town was flooded by the sea, and was rebuilt by the Marquês de Pombal who had rebuilt Lisbon after the 1755 earthquake. The reconstruction was completed in just five months leaving a tidy town with streets lined by elegant 18th century townhouses, and a long esplanade along the riverbank where strollers can enjoy an impressive view. Visitors can take river tours inland along the Guadiana River from Vila Real de Santo António.

Wherever you opt on going, for sure you will discover really fascinating places and amazing gastronomy, and your experience in beautiful Algarve is just meant to be excellent.

by turismodoalgarve

World's Leading Boutique Resort 2012 - Vila Joya, Portugal

World's Leading Boutique Resort 2012 — World Travel Awards

Portugal is the Best. Of course. Top 10 countries for 2013.

Top 10 countries for 2013 | Globe Spots

Amazing rural retreats in Portugal

by Guardian the Observer


Portugal quintas - country estates with bags of character. Some are hidden in the hills, some on the coast, some cheap, others very chic, but glorious scenery and a slower pace of life come as standard.

Rustic chic

Quinta das Sequoias Estremadura

Hidden in a deep forest, this long, two-storey white quinta, dating from 1870, is full of delights and dream-like views of palaces and castles. Corridors and walls are adorned with paintings and sculptures from some of Portugal's foremost artists, alongside fascinating older pieces from all over the world. Bedrooms are individual, with carved beds and polished mahogany furniture, with rugs on tiled floors. In front of the house the garden descends on lawned terraces, with pergolas and lush foliage, to a burbling stream below and a swimming pool with views for miles.
· Estrada de Monserrate, Estremadura

Quinta de Alcaidaria-Mór Ribatejo

The wisteria-clad manor has been in the family for 300 years and is every inch the grand country house: stately cedar-lined drive, box-hedged gardens, 14th-century chapel. The main house is a cool, gracious building - light streams into lofty, elegant rooms with marble floors, arches and delicate plasterwork. An attractive self-catering house is just up the hill, while the B&B rooms are in the main building - and very special they are, too. Expect antique dressers, beds, comfortable chairs, perhaps a grand bathtub with clawed feet. Add to this great views, a peaceful pool and the natural kindness of your English-speaking host and you begin to get the measure of this charming place.
· Ourem, Ribatejo

Quinta Dimalago Algarve

Silves is the oldest city in the Algarve and Quinta Dimalago has a fantastic view of its Moorish castle, gorgeous when floodlit at night. The big, beautiful, tropical garden with its natural pool and waterfalls is on a migrating path for birds and is a wildlife haven. Choose between the renovated 200-year cottage - stunning with its Sri Lankan doors, Dutch antiques and Moroccan suite - and the newly built quinta, whose modest shell hides a strikingly decorated and superbly well-furnished and equipped interior.
Generous rooms have natural ventilation, while solar panels and rainwater harvesting reflect the green consciences of the relaxed and delightful Dutch owners. They live opposite and welcome you on arrival with a glass of sparkling wine. Heaven.
· Silves, Algarve

Quinta da Fonte Bispo Algarve

Enjoy the benign climate and closeness to the sea in the gentle hills of the Algarve hinterland. This old farmstead is a long, low, white building with pretty chimney stacks and broad bands of blue around doors and windows. Parts of the farm are 200 years old but it has been completely renovated. The six suites in the converted outbuildings, fronting a cobbled central patio, were designed with families in mind: open-plan sitting rooms have beds which double up as sofas and open fires for cosy winter days. The restaurant serves Portuguese food (delicious cheeses and chorizo), and there is a sauna, table-tennis, pool and mini-gym.
· Fonte do Bispo, Tavira, Algarve