Portugal, a sun-kissed country that has it all

Perched on the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is the country on the far western edge of the European continent, and therefore automatically, it is the place with the most beautiful sunsets. Although not very large, this country contains all kinds of landscapes: long beaches, virgin natural parks, plains, and of course the islands, with their exotic nature. But that is not all. Portugal is a great choice for those who seek to visit mankind’s greatest works. In fact, men and women have inhabited Portugal for millennia, leaving their prints in all sorts of monuments, from very ancient menhirs and dolmens to spectacular castles and magnificent churches and convents, some of them being the scenario of stories and legends. And, on top of it all comes gastronomy. The taste of the Portuguese aliments is pure and intense, and their quality is unquestionable. Do not hesitate to pair these delicacies with a superb flavoured bottle of the Douro or Alentejan wine. As you can see, Portugal is a sun-kissed country that has it all!

Landscapes

There are many different landscapes to choose from. Portugal has a huge coastline, from the wilder north around Porto to the big waves of Nazaré, the top destination for the best surfers. If you are rather looking for a calmer place, the Costa Vicentina is a wonder still to discover. The most popular choice is, no doubt, Algarve, with its spectacular rock forms and its warmer water. 

But if it is pure nature that you are after, Portugal is rich in natural parks as well. Penada-Gerês has stopped in time to preserve some species like the local wild horses and hounds. Around the main mountain chain in Portugal, Serra da Estrela combines a mountain and lakes, ideal for any time of the year. However, one of the most spectacular is in the Berlengas Islands, jealously kept to protect its unbroken nature. 

Last but not least, let’s mention the islands - Madeira and Azores. Where have you seen a village built on the crater of a volcano? Words cannot describe these landscapes. I am posting a video below to judge for yourself. 

Cities to visit

Where do I begin? Of course, Lisbon and Porto, the two houselights of the country. Next to the coast, they have great connexions to the world. They are cities with a vibe, and both have become quite touristic over the past few years. After a huge earthquake, Lisbon was all rebuilt in 1755 by the Marquis of Pombal, who was said to be a freemason, so the whole city would be built after their purest mathematical guidelines. Plus, from there, you get to visit some of the must-sees, such as Sintra or Belém. 

As for Porto, its decadency is so charming no one can resist it. Cross the river and visit the Douro caves: this wine is a delicacy. If you are a wine enthusiast, you should jump on the boat that crosses de Douro Valley, stopping at the vineyards. Romantic landscape and great wine: what else could you wish for? 

However, you should not only stay in the big cities. The inside villages have so much charm! If you are a fan of Medieval castles, follow the border with Spain. Almost every little town owns one, and some are true fortresses that have been used until recently, like Almeida or the UNESCO protected Elvas. Actually, once you are here, it means you are in Alentejo, which means “beyond the Tagus”, traditional land of wars and epic legends, with castles, natural swimming pools and bright white little villages. Some call it the Portuguese Tuscany. Time seems to have stopped in villages like Marvão or Amieira do Tejo. 

And the list goes on! What about Tomar, whose convent is the greatest example of the Manueline style, the Portuguese Renaissance? Or Aveiro, the Portuguese Venice. Or the Royal Monastery of Alcobaça, where the bodies of the Portuguese Romeo and Juliet lay together, at last for eternity. And yearning for this eternity are the human bones of a chapel in Evora, built entirely of them. The effect is both impressive and creepy.  

Gastronomy 

Finally, let’s talk about food. Portugal must be the country where the codfish is cooked in most ways. It does not matter which one you try, they are all delicious! Actually, fish is very important in the Portuguese diet. Sardines in the Lisbon area are a must, especially if you are there during their feasts in June! But another one that you cannot miss is the francesinhas, typical from Porto. A pro tip: never order too much food since the portions are big, trust me! And of course, desserts: gluttony will make you try a hundred of them, no matter how full you are, some with funny names like baba de camelo (camel’s saliva), but also more traditional ones, like the pastel de nata. People do incredible lines at Belém to taste this yummy sin!

Does all of this sound too good to be true? It gets better! Portuguese people are very warm and helpful. Most can speak quite good English. Also, Portugal is very cheap for European standards. As you can see, this sun-kissed country has it all! So, if you had no chance to discover this unique country before, now you have all the reasons to do it as soon as possible!