An independent kingdom since 1143, Portugal established its continental frontiers in 1297 and is one of the oldest nations in Europe. Situated on the west side of the Iberian Peninsula, its geographic location along the Atlantic coast soon determined its vocation to the sea. In 1415, the Portuguese set sail on an epic voyage that would make them the first to discover the ocean routes to India, Brazil, China and Japan, and at the same time founded settlements on the east and west coasts of Africa. The natural advantages of a sunny country with such diverse geographic features have turned Portugal into a chosen destination for many, an ideal place for practicing water sports and playing golf.
Portugal has a rich seafaring past, superb beach resorts, wistful towns and a landscape wreathed in olive groves, vineyards and wheat fields. Littered with UNESCO World Heritage sites and graced by one of Europe's most relaxed and attractive capitals this is a nation proud of its heritage.
Savouring life slowly is a Portuguese passion, and much of the best is humble - traditional folk festivals, simple, honest food drowning in olive oil, music that pulls at the heart strings, recalling past love and glories and markets overflowing with fish, fruit and flowers.
Portugal & Madeira Highlights
• Lisbon, the dazzling city that stretches along the banks of the River Tagus, is an enchanting capital. The impressive fortress around which the city originally sprang up, is now circled by neighbourhoods drenched with medieval charm. As the dusk turns to night, the yellow electric tramcars continue to slowly wind their way up and down the hills of the old capital, while the sound of traditional Fado songs enliven many a candlelit dinner table in restaurant or home.
• Gorgeous beaches, warm water and glorious year-round sunshine make a stay on the Algarve the dream holiday. Situated on the extreme South of Portugal, this area of the territory was the last to be conquered from the Moors and traces of the Moorish presence are still seen in its unique terraces, chimneys and whitewashed houses. The southern coastline consists of a long stretch of fabulous sandy beaches, punctuated by extraordinary rugged red cliffs and fantastic grottoes.
• Between the verdant hills and the blue ocean, Madeira lies 621 miles southwest of Lisbon and 497 miles from the coast of Africa, offering the delights of a subtropical climate. An archipelago of volcanic origin, Madeira is the largest and more populated of the islands. The beautiful assortment of flowers and tropical fruits, mild temperature of the ocean water and natural pools, a wealthy cultural heritage, luxurious hotels and Funchal’s cosmopolitan life are but a few of the available charms found here.