Portugal Small Group Holidays
Portugal
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Stretched along the westernmost part of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is the oldest country in Europe and has played an important part in world history. Portuguese culture is a patchwork reflecting the influence of many different people, regions and historical eras. To visit Portugal is to travel backward in time and around the world within a single country.
Bound by the Atlantic Ocean in the south and west, Portugal’s coastline offers excellent opportunity to explore and indulge in various water activities, from diving and sailing, to more racy pleasures such as kite-surfing and wake boarding.
The country is divided into various provinc... (Read more...)
Bound by the Atlantic Ocean in the south and west, Portugal’s coastline offers excellent opportunity to explore and indulge in various water activities, from diving and sailing, to more racy pleasures such as kite-surfing and wake boarding.
The country is divided into various provinc... (Read more...)
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es, including the Atlantic islands of Madeira and Azores. The Portuguese landscape offers stunning scenery; from the steep mountains and lush valleys of the centre and north - the highest part being the Serra de Estrela, a popular area for skiing - to the arid plains of the Alentejo region and cove speckled coastline of the south, it’s a fantastic place. A range of mountains divides the Alentejo from the Algarve, which runs along the south coast, and is one of the most popular resort areas thanks to its wide sandy beaches and attractive bays.
Climatically, the country is divided. Southern Portugal, including the Algarve, has a Mediterranean climate. There are hot, dry summers and mild winters, and sea breezes that help moderate high summer temperatures. These allow the more adventurous traveler to enjoy bountiful activities without breaking too much of a sweat! In the north, the weather is wetter, especially in winter. It's also cooler, as temperatures are influenced by Atlantic currents and the Spanish Meseta. The best time to travel is during spring and autumn, when it’s sunny and warm, and when the tourist areas are relatively quiet.
For anyone wanting to get off the beaten track, there are limitless opportunities here on the exposed Atlantic beaches, which can be found up the entire west coast - ideal for an experienced surfer. There are also the more traditional Costa de Prata (Silver Coast) resorts in the Beira Literal, which gets its name from the effect of the sun on the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. It is still a largely undiscovered area. Here you can observe the real Portuguese way of life, among stunning coastal scenery, and can almost guarantee a beach to yourself, even in the height of season.
Lagoa de Obidos (Obidos Lagoon) on Silver Coast is one of the most beautiful spots of the west coast. The calm lagoon is an exceptional place for activities such as rowing, windsailing and windsurfing.
Lisbon (Lisboa) is the capital of Portugal. The city lies on the north bank of River Tagus, more or less in the centre of the country. It is a beautiful and colourful city. In Lisbon history and old-world charm exist together, while at the same time the city embraces progress and modernity. The capital helps as a springboard to whichever final adventure you seek. Most tour operators are happy to organise transfers; however there are also direct flights available from London to Faro, Funchal (Madeira), Porto and other main destinations.
Climatically, the country is divided. Southern Portugal, including the Algarve, has a Mediterranean climate. There are hot, dry summers and mild winters, and sea breezes that help moderate high summer temperatures. These allow the more adventurous traveler to enjoy bountiful activities without breaking too much of a sweat! In the north, the weather is wetter, especially in winter. It's also cooler, as temperatures are influenced by Atlantic currents and the Spanish Meseta. The best time to travel is during spring and autumn, when it’s sunny and warm, and when the tourist areas are relatively quiet.
For anyone wanting to get off the beaten track, there are limitless opportunities here on the exposed Atlantic beaches, which can be found up the entire west coast - ideal for an experienced surfer. There are also the more traditional Costa de Prata (Silver Coast) resorts in the Beira Literal, which gets its name from the effect of the sun on the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. It is still a largely undiscovered area. Here you can observe the real Portuguese way of life, among stunning coastal scenery, and can almost guarantee a beach to yourself, even in the height of season.
Lagoa de Obidos (Obidos Lagoon) on Silver Coast is one of the most beautiful spots of the west coast. The calm lagoon is an exceptional place for activities such as rowing, windsailing and windsurfing.
Lisbon (Lisboa) is the capital of Portugal. The city lies on the north bank of River Tagus, more or less in the centre of the country. It is a beautiful and colourful city. In Lisbon history and old-world charm exist together, while at the same time the city embraces progress and modernity. The capital helps as a springboard to whichever final adventure you seek. Most tour operators are happy to organise transfers; however there are also direct flights available from London to Faro, Funchal (Madeira), Porto and other main destinations.
Surfing
Surfing in Portugal is renowned throughout Europe - the reliable waves of the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast have played host to surf, windsurf and body board competitions for years. This spot has drawn professionals and amateurs alike from across Europe. The conditions at Praia Grande, Guincho, Ericeira and Peniche are ideal for surfers and water sports enthusiasts, but there are other less-visited resorts to be tried, such as the pine-fringed beaches of Sio Pedro de Muel, which provide for a more intimate experience.
Kitesurfing
Kite surfing is a relatively new sport that is picking up speed now: Portugal is a great country for board sports and Obibos lagoon is a favoured spot.
There are camps around the Alvor estuary (Lagos), a regular stop on the professional kite-surfing tour each year.
Windsurfing
The biggest windsurfing destinations are north of Lisbon at Guincho, Praia Grande, and Sines on the Alentejo coast.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
SUP (Stand Up Paddling) is gaining recognition as an alternative sport to surfing and boating despite being a combination of both disciplines. To enjoy this sport, you do not need to rely on waves or wind; all you need is the open water, a paddle and a board! There's real fun to be had with SUP at Albufeira and on the Obidos lagoon.
Kayaking
Portugal’s rivers, lagoons and reservoirs offer a multitude of boating opportunities: kayaking, sailing, rafting and canoeing. If you fancy having a go at kayaking, you can do so down the Serra rivers - although for a gentler introduction, start on the Rio Mondego.
Sailing
Portugal’s rivers, lagoons and reservoirs offer a multitude of boating opportunities: kayaking, sailing, rafting and canoeing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced sailor, you can enjoy a great catamaran holiday on the beautiful Obidos lagoon and escape the crowds on land with only the wind and water as your companions. Can you feel the breeze already?
Whitewater Rafting
Portugal’s rivers, lagoons and reservoirs offer a multitude of boating opportunities: kayaking, sailing, rafting and canoeing.
Canoeing
Portugal’s rivers, lagoons and reservoirs offer a multitude of boating opportunities: kayaking, sailing, rafting and canoeing. If you fancy having a go at kayaking, you can do so down the Serra rivers - although for a gentler introduction, start on the Rio Mondego.
Mountain Biking
Portugal has track after track of exhilarating mountain biking routes. Monchique and Tavira in the Algarve, Sintra and Setubal in central Portugal and Parque Nacional da Peneda Geres in the north are all popular starting points. Depending on your level and desire, it can be a relaxed cycling tour or an adrenaline-filled coastline ride. What better way to ensure that you see lots of Portugal and also enjoy a swim in the azure waters of the Atlantic, than riding along the coast on a mountain bike?
Classic Itineraries
There are certain things in life that you need to do: in Portugal you need to tour Lisbon, a legendary city with over 20 centuries worth of history. Perhaps start with Jerónimos Monastery? Next on your list should be the oldest university in Portugal, built in the 16th century and Obidos, a beautiful town with a beautiful story. Surrounded by a 14th century wall, it gained its fame during the reign of King Denis and his bride Isabel, to whom he gave the town as a wedding present. Sintra is another enchanting town boasting stunning scenery and two amazing castles, Palácio National de Sintra and Palácio da Pena.
Alcobaça monastery in Alcobaça is an important monument in Portuguese history. Built to celebrate victory over the moors, it is also the setting for the most dramatic love story in Portuguese history when a prince fell in love with a Galician woman. Needless to say, the marriage was opposed and so the pair eloped. However, when they started to live openly together, the King sent men to assassinate his son’s wife. Only when the old King died, did the Prince recovered the remains of his beautiful wife, had them crowned and forced all Portuguese royalty to kiss her hand. Today, the bodies of Pedro and Ines lie in very impressive coffins in a church in Alcobaça.
When you hear about people holidaying in Portugal, you rarely imagine them having an adrenaline-filled experience. However, the country’s varied landscape makes for adventurous activities. From impressive mountain ranges to wild Atlantic waves and calm Mediterranean beaches, it has few other European rivals. Fantastic nightlife and a fascinating heritage help deliver anything but your predictable break in the sun. So pack your things, and let Portugal take you for the ride of your life.
Other Activities
There are hiking, biking and wildlife spotting opportunities along the border hills and reservoirs of the Serra da Malcata. In the far north, Portugal provides climbers a paradise of granite peaks within Parque Nacional da Peneda-Geres and the schist hills in the east of Porto. There's also the 500m tall granite outcropping of Cantaro Magro in the Serra da Estrela to enjoy.
Horse riding is a lovely way to help your mind and body rejuvenate, so saddle up and take in the beautiful beaches and forests of Obibos. For further relaxation, try out a yoga camp, the serene and tranquil surroundings are sure to help you relax from the pressures of work.
There are trekking opportunities along the Douro valley and overland tours in the Levadas of nearby island Madeira. Azores Island hopping is really also a must, as it lets you explore unique wonders, such as the hot thermal springs and mud pools of Sao Miguel. Observe wildlife on the island of Sao Jorge and go whale watching on island of Pico. Even if you don't spot a single whale, the scenery is so stunning you will not be disappointed!
