Famous for its Algarve coast, Portugal is one of Europe’s
cheapest destinations, boasting a long maritime history
and distinctively laid-back character.
Just under an hour from Lisbon is the
beautiful town of Sintra, set among wooded
hills with its grand palaces and delightful ancient rural
villages nearby.
Faro is the hub of the Algarve region
with both modern and ancient architecture, the old city
is also a delight, still surrounded by Roman walls. Along
the southern Algarve coastline towering
cliffs and secluded beaches look out towards the lonely
Atlantic ocean and back on delightful villages. Dramatic
Sagres, busy Lagos, picturesque
Portimao, lively Albufeira,
Vilamoura (casino and marina) and Vila
Real de Santo Antonio (marina) and historic
Silves (inland) are all popular.
For a break from the hurly-burly chaos of beach life the
quiet highland town of Monchique, dozes
on the wooded slopes of the Serra de Monchique.
In the north, Oporto is an historic city
linked to the wine industry of the lovely
Douro Valley - one of Portugal's scenic
highlights, with expansive panoramas.
Further north is the Costa Verde, with
its beautiful and remote scenery, and Sanfins Citânia
(Paços de Ferreira) - pre-Roman ruins.
Portugal is ideal for car hire, especially along the Algarve,
although its road safety record is questionable. Lisbon’s
international airport has direct flights from a number of
destinations in Europe and North America, charter flights
into Faro are numerous in season. Trains and buses link
the country with Spain, some drive all the way from the
UK, using Bay of Biscay ferries.
The locals are incredibly laid-back, expect nothing to
happen quickly, particularly in the sleepy rural areas,
but the food and wine is cheap and good. The Algarve enjoys
a well-established tourist network with plenty of accommodation
to suit all budget, but is crowded in August.
