Portugal

With over 800 kilometres of sea coast, it is not surprising that Portugal has witnessed so many sailings and arrivals. It is therefore no less outlandish that the country’s population should be so welcoming, having been open to the world for so long. Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe and, blessed by a mild year-round climate and hospitable people, it has become one of the frontrunners in attracting discerning travellers to its shores. It promises visitors a diverse range of holiday options amid splendid surroundings and a genuine warmth, akin to the fiery red earth on which the country is formed. The climate is influenced by the relief, latitude and proximity to the sea, which offers mild winters, especially in the Algarve. The summers are hot and dry with a cooling breeze on the coast with autumn promising plentiful warm, sunny days. The subtropical archipelago of Madeira benefits from an exceptionally mild climate and high sea temperatures thanks to the influence of the Gulf Stream.

The Algarve promises summer visitors a complete sun and sea destination with more than a hundred miles of coastline, gently shelved golden beaches and unadulterated waters. It also possesses a plethora of year-round sporting and lifestyle choices including an abundance of some of Europe’s finest golfing challenges, an array of tennis clubs, luxury Spas, international yachting marinas and a wealth of watersport options. Its Arabic influenced heritage is portrayed in the plentiful whitewashed market towns, fretwork chimneys and terrazzo workmanship of the region.

Fuelled by demand, the Algarve is now home to a growing number of luxury hotels and resorts at which guests and their families, whilst unwinding amid idyllic surroundings and receiving an impressive menu of activities, will also discover an unobtrusive Algarvian service rarely equalled.

Madeira is often referred to as the ‘Garden of the Atlantic’ due to the lush sub-tropical plants and flora that cover this mild, mountainous outcrop. Visually, it is one of the most stunning islands in the world and is home to two top class golf courses, plentiful festivals and, in Reid’s Palace, one of Europe’s time-honoured premier luxury resorts.

Lisbon offers an impressive alternative. Not only is the nation’s capital one of Europe’s must-visit cities, its coastal environs offer some delightfully unspoilt beaches and towns, as well as no shortage of historical sites and championship golf courses. Under an hour northwest of the city, the golden sands at Praia D’El Rey stretch as far as the eye can see and are bordered by a luxury lifestyle resort that remains one of Portugal’s best kept secrets – but not for much longer! The opportunities in Portugal are endless and its appeal enduring.

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