The Authentic Escape
Medieval castles, villages with cobblestone paths, captivating cities and golden sand beaches, are a few of the sceneries you’ll encounter during a visit to Portugal. Exploring Portugal is becoming a face-to-face with big mysteries from the past. fulfilled with historical sites that are scattered around the country, carefully blended with unique cultural and ethical influences from the Moors to Germanic, Celtics to Romans. Further absorb its history, by spending an unforgettable night in a castle and manor house with iconic views to vineyards and olive groves or appreciate the untouchable sceneries of the Portuguese historical villages.
Don’t perceive Portugal as a nostalgic or ancient country. It relies on its history to reveal its essence and splendor with cosmopolitan and pleasant cities and its historical charm is combined with an avant-garde and contemporary architecture. Throughout your stay delight yourself with the Portuguese gastronomy, learning that seating down at a Portuguese table means savoring unique delicacies from the coast and countryside. Each region has its own characteristic, each plate has its secret ingredient and each dish a specific wine to emphasize the richness of the flavors and aromas. Just like the local gastronomy, the Portuguese wine is equally as exciting, the different soils and flatlands, well-defined seasons and aging time are factors that influence the flavor and color of the wine. Despite its small size, this country produces renowned wines capable of electrifying the calmest connoisseur.
Strolling through the different regions of Portugal is an unforgettable yet captivating dream. To turn your dream into reality, the programs mentioned here, are only suggestions of what we can offer in each region, as well as a few alternatives on how to connect the cities. The programs are flexible; each person can alter the dates and cities and/or regions according to their needs and wishes. There’s a captivating, passionate and compelling Portugal, waiting to be unveiled and will certainly provide unforgettable experiences.
MADEIRA Island has breathtaking sceneries, mountains with unique viewpoints, famous “levadas” trails that are sprinkled around the island. In fact, the fauna and flora of this archipelago are phenomenal, and easily carries us to an enchanted green world. Hence, unveiling one of the best kept secrets of Madeira, that’s classified as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Madeira's unique monuments bubbling with heritage and distinct beauty and distinctive color scheme can be seen in the municipal market. Not to mention, its gastronomy resulting in an explosion of tastes in your mouth.
LISBON The Portuguese capital is bursting with history and culture, the neighborhoods are distinct with a traditional touch. Starting with, the elegant “Avenida da Liberdade”, the most glamourous quarter in the city, fulfilled with elegant boutiques and sophisticated restaurants. Close by, is one of the most ancient squares, “Rossio”, known for the street shoe shiners, historical theatres and wide variety of cafes and restaurants. This unique area is built on an ancient Arab neighborhood, with charming maze-like streets, whitewashed buildings and famous Fado houses. There are various flavors to please the palate, this region is known for the famous “leitão à bairrada”, a suckling pork that’s crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, and soft and buttery “Serra da Estrela” cheese, not to mention their delightful conventual sweets.
AZORES ISLANDS A fascinating refuge surrounded by nine unique islands amidst of the Atlantic Ocean. Each island has its own essence and magic, certainly will conquer you with its scenic and breathtaking backdrops. You’ll surely appreciate the untouched beauty of Mother Nature and stunning sea views, the enchantments of these islands continue in their culture and traditions. Each island has its own gastronomical touch. These delicious delicacies range from the famous dish called “Cozido das Furnas”, unique by the way it’s cooked, under São Miguel island soil, to the freshness of the fish stew.
ALGARVE region is composed by vivid colors from the mountain, sea and cliffs that stand out as golden highlights. A true eye drops for the eyes with iconic sceneries, endless beaches and hidden islands and lagoons. We can say there’s an Algarve to satisfy every taste, with lively cities like Albufeira, Vilamoura, Armação de Pêra and Praia da Rocha, fulfilled with luxurious resorts, delicious restaurants and energetic nightlife. Its countryside is sprinkled with calm villages, situated in lush green sceneries that offer an unmatchable tranquility. A paradise for nature lovers. This region is also known for its endless combinations of golf courses.
PORTO is one of the most ancient cities in the country and has an undeniable power of transporting us to two distinct and delightful realities. Embark on a medieval quest by appreciating its majestic monuments in the historical center. Hop on a tram or walk down to the riverbank quarter, experience navigating the waters of the Douro River on board of the famous “Rabelo” boats. Wander through the modern quarter of Boavista, admire the avant-garde building of Casa da Música, enter the unique market of Bom Sucesso, and don’t leave this quarter without seeing the Contemporary Art Museum. Portugal's coast is filled with hidden treasures and surprises like the magnificent beaches of Espinho, or the vibrant harbor of Matosinhos, known for its delicious seafood gastronomy.