PORTUGAL

Portugal is a country rich in history, heritage, wildlife, flora and fauna. Situated on the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula, the country has more than 3000 hours of sunshine a year, and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. On the west coast, more dramatic rock formations and a haven for surfers with its larger waves, and on the Algarve a coastline with over 100 miles of little bays and coves and long stretches of white sandy beaches, perfect for water sports, families and sunbathing. Fabulous golf courses are dotted along the Algarve and have now sprung up along the west coast, and is one of the most popular sporting pastimes amongst both the holidaymakers and Portuguese.

Dating back to the 11th Century, it is a country steeped in the history of seafaring and discovery. Although going under regeneration, the Moorish architecture of the major cities is clear to see - the country’s second vintage city, Porto in the north; and Lisbon, the capital perched on the Atlantic coast. Lagos, the Algarve’s third largest town, on the south west corner of the Algarve remains relatively untouched with a well-maintained fortress, city walls and a labyrinth of narrow winding streets, where the Portuguese explorers, most famously, Prince Henry the Navigator set out on his voyages of discovery.

Thanks to the vast regions of unaffected sprawling countryside, Portugal is abundant with flora and fauna. Visit the Serra de Monchique or head up onto the Algarve cliffs in springtime and as far as the eye can see it is sprinkled with wild poppies and daisies, dwarf shrubs and others indigenous to the country. You can still find wild goat, wild pig and deer in the countryside. There is plenty of birdlife as the peninsula lies on the winter migration route of western and central European species.

Whatever your reason for coming to Portugal, you can guarantee you will receive a warm welcome, good food and wine, a pleasant climate, and go home with unforgettable memories.