Let me introduce one of our marvellous destinations: Portugal
Climate
Mainland Portugal
The climate in Portugal varies considerably from one region to another and is influenced by the relief, latitude and proximity to the sea, which offers mild winters, especially in the Algarve.
In the Porto e Norte area and Beiras region, particularly inland, nearer Spain, the winters are colder, although the temperatures are still mild when compared to the rest of Europe. There is some snowfall. It occurs most in the Serra da Estrela mountains, where we find the highest point in mainland Portugal (1,991 m) and where it is sometimes possible to ski.
The summers are hot and dry, especially in the inland areas (Trás-os-Montes in north-eastern Portugal and Alentejo). Temperatures are slightly lower in the coastal areas, because of the influence of the sea.
There are often warm, sunny days in autumn. Nice weather at the beginning of November is often called “St. Martin’s Summer” as this saint’s day is on 11 November.
Azores
The climate in the Azores is influenced by the islands’ latitude and by the Gulf Stream, and temperatures are mild there all year round. The same factors also influence the sea temperature, which is very pleasant both in winter and summer and ideal for nautical sports all year round.
Madeira
The subtropical characteristics of the weather in the Madeira Archipelago can be explained by its geographical position and mountainous relief. The climate in Madeira is exceptionally mild, with average temperatures varying between 24 ºC in summer and 19 ºC in winter.
The sea temperature is also very pleasant all year round, thanks to the influence of the warm Gulf Stream. It varies between 18 ºC in winter and 22 ºC in summer.
Air Transportation
Portugal’s excellent geographical position makes it a stopover point for many foreign airlines at airports all over the country:
Lisbon – Portela Airport
Oporto – Dr. Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport
Faro – Faro Airport
Funchal, Madeira – Funchal Airport
Ponta Delgada, Azores – João Paulo II Airport
SATA has regular flights between all the islands of the Azores and from the Azores to Madeira and mainland Portugal. SATA also offers regular flights to a number of international destinations.
Alcohol, drinking and driving
It is against the law to drive with a blood alcohol level of 0.5 grams per litre or more.
A blood alcohol level between 0,5 g/l and 0,8 g/l is considered a serious offence, and it is sanctioned with a driving inhibition between 1 month and a 1 year and a fee payment of an amount from 250 up to 1.250 euros.
- A blood alcohol level between 0,8g/l and 1,2g/l is a very serious offence, sanctioned with a period of driving inhibition between 2 months and 2 years and the a fee payment of an amount from 1.250 up to 2.500 euros.
- A blood alcohol level of 1,2g/l or more is considered a crime, that can be punished with imprisonment up to 1 year or fee penalty up to 120 days, and driving inhibition between 3 months and 3 years.
Driving
Vehicles drive on the right in Portugal. Unless otherwise indicated, vehicles coming from the right have priority in squares and at intersections.
At junctions with roundabouts, vehicles already on the roundabout have right of way.
Road signs comply with international rules.
Compulsory papers:
- Personal ID- Driving licence
- Motor insurance certificate
- Vehicle registration or equivalent
- Vehicle logbook (livrete)or equivalent
On the spot fines are issued.
Speed limits for cars without trailers and motorcycles:
50 kph – in built-up areas
90 kph – on normal roads
100 kph – on roads restricted to motor vehicles
120 kph – on motorways
Meals
While restaurants are usually open for lunch between midday and 3 p.m. and for dinner between 7 and 10 p.m. many of them have longer opening hours, especially in the big cities and areas with a busy nightlife.
They usually close one day a week, sometimes at the weekend in city centres, though restaurants in shopping centres are open every day.
Public holidays
National holidays
New Year’s Day – 1 January
Freedom Day – 25 April
Worker’s Day – 1 May
Portugal Day – 10 June
Feast of the Assumption – 15 August
Implantation of the Republic – 5 October
All Saints Day – 1 November
Restoration of Independence – 1 December
Immaculate Conception – 8 December
Christmas Day – 25 December
Shopping
Traditionally, shops are open from Monday to Friday, from 9 or 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Some close for lunch from 1 to 3 p.m. On Saturdays from January to November, shops generally close at 1 p.m. though in city centres some are open in the afternoon.
Shops tend to stay open on Saturday afternoons and sometimes even on Sundays in December for Christmas shopping.
There are plenty of shopping centres inside and outside the cities that are usually open from 10 a.m. to midnight every day of the week.
Tipping
Service is included in the bill in restaurants, though it is customary to leave an additional tip of about 5-10% of the total. It is also normal to tip taxi drivers 5-10 % or rounding up the amount paid to the nearest euro.
Currency Exchange
You can exchange money at banks, which are open from 8.30 a.m. to 3 p.m. five working days a week; at bureaux de change; and at automatic currency exchange machines (these are for currency sale transactions only).
Discovering the Algarve
There’s more to the Algarve than just its popular coastlines.
To discover a different side of the Algarve, lose yourself in the Costa Vicentina Natural Park. Walk through pathways of colourful flowers and visit ancient castles, once home to the Moors.
In Cabo de S. Vicente, discover a land that was once thought of as the “end of the world”. Climb up to Fóia, the highest point in the Algarve, in the verdant Serra de Monchique hills. Take a rest by one of the region’s many waterways in a truly beautiful landscape
Head inland to the Serra do Caldeirão and enjoy the various regional crafts on show, ranging from palm leaf basketwork and worked copper through to hand-painted earthenware.
Experience the warmth of the local people and share a glass of wine or medronho grape spirit, or a filhó fritter with some smoked meat.
And by the border, take a cruise up the River Guadiana as it flows through a Natural Park that extends to its mouth at Vila Real de Santo António.
Castro Marim salt marsh
Discover a wetland zone of international importance in the middle of the Algarve.
The stunning wetlands of the River Guadiana, between Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo António, contain salt marshes, meadows and marshes. A visit here will reveal a rich tapestry of plant and animal life.
Frogs, toads, newts, lizards – all accompany you on your trip along the banks of the River Guadiana. And in the water live bream, bass and mullet.
In the skies, white storks, waders and herons fly by. On land, there are foxes, hares and timid wild rabbits.
The large swathes of marsh on the wetlands provide a contrast to the dry agricultural areas, where cereals, peanuts, figs, carob-beans and olives are grown. And higher up, seek out the shade of boulders and pine trees.
Finally, explore the archaeological remains of the ancient people that once lived here – chief among them are the remains at Castro Marim.
By boat on the Guadiana
Running along the northeastern border of the Algarve, the River Guadiana offers some beautiful scenery as you head towards the beaches of the south coastline.
Discover the various border routes of the Guadiana Valley by taking a boat up the river to Alcoutim. Between the Guadiana’s banks, you’ll enjoy an excellent view of tidal mills and Mediterranean scrublands.
Take some time to explore this protected area, the natural habitat of a wide range of fauna and flora. Glide through areas of pastureland, past cultivated fields and ancient remains from the Neolithic period to the times of the Roman and Moorish occupations. Here and there, you’ll find small towns with an ancient and well-preserved heritage.
Visit some of them and discover a different way of life, far removed from the cosmopolitan beaches of the coast.
Follow the flight of storks and observe pink clouds of flamingos as they fly through the sky. Stop for a visit at The Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo António Salt Marsh Nature Reserve, an area popular with many migratory birds.
Finally, explore the landscape of the Castro Marim saltpans, with their white hills of salt amidst the green of the fields and the blue of the river.
The Algarve hinterland
Discover the history of castles, fountains and churches, from the barrocal to the mountains.
Travel amongst thyme plants and carob-trees, past panoramic views, lakes and rivers.
Take some time to appreciate the local crafts of the Moorish city of Loulé, particularly its painted pottery, brass and copper ware. The neo-Moorish market place, the 13th-Century Igreja de São Clemente and the Igreja da Misericórdia are all well worth a visit.
Make sure you see the view from the ruins of the Moorish castle in Salir, and visit the Capela de São Luís and the parish church of the delightful village of Alte. In Paderne, enjoy the peaceful and solitary ruins of the town’s castle.
Make the most of the warm hospitality of the local people as they relax over a loaf of bread and some chouriço sausage, accompanied by the special Algarve medronho, a brandy made from arbutus-berries.
Admire the local arts and crafts, and the skill with which local men and women weave baskets and rugs from the leaves of the dwarf palm-tree. They also fashion belts and bags from leather, and work with linen and cotton.
As you head towards the mountains, make sure you climb high enough to enjoy the stunning views over the surrounding landscape. If it’s very hot, why not enjoy a dip in cool mountain lake or stream?
Vicentine Coast
The region southwest of Alentejo and the Costa Vicentina Natural Park is a protected area of stunning landscapes formed by the sea and mountains.
Discover the mysteries of this unique part of the Algarve, beginning with the river and beach landscapes that characterise the Ribeira de Ceixe.
One by one, discover the beaches around Aljezur. At Monte Clérigo, on a beach between verdant cliffs, you’ll find one of the best places in the area for enjoying grilled fish or seafood.
Walk up the steep hills of Aljezur to the 10th-Century Moorish castle, the last to be captured from the Moors in Portugal. From its ruins, enjoy the view over the town’s white houses and the Serra de Monchique in the distance.
Lose yourself in the fields of brightly coloured flowers that decorate the narrow tracks leading to the beaches. In Vila do Bispo, make sure you visit the parish church, its walls lined with tiles from top to bottom.
Head on to the Cabo de São Vicente (Cape St. Vincent), the southwestern tip of Europe, and considered to be the “world’s end” in the Middle Ages. By the reign of Dom Manuel I, the headland already had a beacon kept lit all night by the Capuchin friars. With a range of 95 kilometres, the present-day lighthouse is one of the most powerful in Europe.
It was in Sagres that the epic maritime adventures of the Portuguese began under the command of Prince Henry the Navigator. Here you can enjoy a fantastic view over the Atlantic Ocean from the headland. At the Fortaleza do Infante, take a look at the immense wind compass (43 metres wide), and visit the Capela da Nossa Senhora da Graça.
Serra de Monchique
Discover the Serra de Monchique and the historic landscapes, towns and traditions of the Algarve hinterland.
This region of the Algarve is known for the traditional architecture of Monchique’s houses, with their white walls, carved stonework and special “saia” (skirt) chimneys. From the town’s steep, narrow streets, you can enjoy a series of different panoramic views over the surrounding mountains.
While in town, the Capela de São Sebastião is well worth a visit, in order to see an interesting 17th-Century statue of the Virgin Mary. In the Igreja da Misericórdia, in the square of the same name, carved woodwork is combined with two large 18th-Century paintings. And step inside the Capela do Senhor dos Passos to see a life-size statue of Christ.
In the valley of the Serra de Monchique, you’ll find a delightful little spa surrounded by green countryside, where you can enjoy a few days of complete rest.
When you’re feeling reinvigorated, a climb up the mountains to a height of 902 metres will put you at the highest point not only in the range but also in the whole of the Algarve. This high spot is called Pico da Fóia, where you’ll be treated to some excellent views of the landscape. Nearby, make sure you also see the archaeological remains of when the Roman’s used Monchique’s waters for medicinal purposes.
Whether you’re travelling by car or bicycle, take a trip out into the countryside and enjoy some fresh air. From Caldas de Monchique, it’s only a short hop to Marmelete, travelling through green and lush scenery with the sea on the horizon in the distance. Discover the local cuisine by sampling traditional sausages, delicious honey and medronho, the Algarve brandy made from arbutus berries.
A drive through the Serra do Caldeirão
Head into the Algarve’s hinterland and explore the beautiful landscapes of the Serra do Caldeirão.
Drive through gentle hills and discover hidden villages with their own traditional trades, architecture and local cuisine.
Experience the green forests of eucalyptus, cork-oaks and pine-trees, or enjoy the views over wheat and barley fields. Amongst the hills, stop from time to time and watch the people as they busily go about their daily tasks: the cork stripper, the shepherd, the miller, or the apple picker in the orchard.
Discover the characteristic architecture of the houses in this inland region, with their chimneys, ovens, sloping roofs and whitewashed walls.
In São Brás de Alportel, stop and admire the parish church and the iron bridge. At the small museum centre of Cachopo, you’ll find an exhibition of traditional local crafts.
To round of your tour of the region, don’t forget to taste some of the local cheese, wine, brandy and sausages.
Sporting Algarve
Use your holiday to keep in shape by playing one of the many sports on offer in the Algarve.
Try windsurfing and sailing close to Ria Formosa. Or rip up the Algarve’s finest waves while surfing and bodyboarding at the Costa Vicentina beaches.
In the region’s eastern and western parts, have a fun-packed day on the open sea, trying your hand at sport fishing.
On one of the beaches between Albufeira and Vilamoura, rent a jet ski or a motorboat and speed up and down the coast.
Or swap fun in the water for fun on terra firma.
Head inland and go on a safari or a treasure hunt.
Lose yourself in fields or in a pine grove while taking part in an exciting game of paintball.
Rent a jeep, or journey along the many wilderness trails on a mountain bike or a quad bike. Alternatively, enjoy a peaceful walk, a bicycle ride or a horse ride.
Dry land, Algarve
Live sunny days to their fullest. Play sport and explore the beautiful inland regions of the Algarve.
Go on a ‘treasure hunt’ or a ‘safari’ in Albufeira – the panoramic routes around the town, seen from a 4×4, are terrific.
Head for the Monchique mountain range and try out abseiling or take a ride on a death slide – you’ll get an adrenalin buzz while enjoying the wonderful mountain landscape.
Or check out the cart-racing track at Almancil (Quarteira), only five minutes from Faro Airport.
And all over the Algarve, mountain bike routes, walking routes and bicycle routes can make a stay even more exciting.
For those of a calmer disposition, relaxing horse rides at Odiáxere Dam or in Sagres will help you to discover a different Algarve.
Diving, Algarve sea
Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the Algarve.
Along the Algarve’s 150km of coastline, there’s amazing diving to be enjoyed, day or night. And with a fantastic climate throughout the year, it’s no surprise that the region seduces divers from all over the world.
In Pedra da Torre (Lagoa), descend 10 to 15 metres and rub shoulders with cuttlefish, crabs and a wealth of plant life.
Or take a fun dive exploring the overhangs of rock formations in Porto de Mós (Lagos). In the summer, you might even be lucky enough to come face to face with dolphins.
But the king of the Algarve’s dive spots is Pedra de Âncora, an enormous reef close to Praia da Rocha. You’ll see lobsters, sea bream and on the western edge of the reef, you’ll even spot an enormous anchor wedged fast between the rocks.
In Sagres meanwhile, check out the Vapor das 19, the wreck of a steam ship from the First World War. Lying at a depth of about 30 metres, it’s now home to a rich variety of sea-life.
Sea Sports
The Portuguese coast is a paradise for lovers of water sports.
In the north, where the sea is rougher than in the south, the most popular water sports are open water fishing, surfing and bodyboarding. Have a go at these in Ofir, Póvoa de Varzim, Leça da Palmeira and Espinho.
From Figueira da Foz down to Sines, there’s another world waiting to be discovered. Because the sea is calmer south of Lisbon, the coastline between the central region of the country and the coastal region of the Alentejo province is fabulous for diving and sailing. Our tips include diving or spear fishing in Peniche and Sines, surfing in Ericeira and Praia Grande and sailing between Cascais and Sesimbra.
In the Algarve, the choice is enormous. On the windward side, underwater activities reign. Diving and spear fishing are available in the Sagres and Lagos areas.
For sailors, the entire Algarve region is home to numerous regattas, but Portimão and Vilamoura are the best places to hire a boat and get away from it all. For open water sport fishing, Vilamoura and Tavira are the best locations – the waters in these areas are internationally renowned.
On Madeira you can fish, dive, sail and surf at a number of locations. A highlight is a dive at the Garajau Nature Reserve. But Porto Santo, with its transparent water, is also becoming an obligatory stop-off point.
The archipelago of the Azores is less well known, but equally beguiling for divers, fishermen and sailors. Islands such as São Miguel, Faial, Terceira, Santa Maria and Flores are all well worth a visit.The choice is yours.
Sailing
For peace and quiet in beautiful coastal landscapes, you can’t beat a sailing holiday in Portugal.
If you’re seeking the perfect sailing holiday, Cascais remains one of the most famous Portuguese destinations. Set off from the marina to discover the secrets of the closest coast to Lisbon.
In the Algarve, you’ll find companies that rent out sailboats, either with or without a crew. Lagos, Portimão and Vilamoura are also home to marinas where you can hire a unique ‘floating apartment’ for the length of your stay. If you only want to make a few trips up and down the coast, then the Algarve has countless solutions to provide you with the ideal day out on the ocean.
Setting off from Portimão or Vilamoura, the crew of your chosen boat will take you to some of the Algarve’s most well preserved secret beaches.
You’ll be presented with the same opportunity in the islands. From the marinas in Ponta Delgada on the Azorean island of São Miguel, and Funchal in the archipelago of Madeira, charter companies will take you to pristine coastlines, hidden away from the main tourist areas.
Surfing and bodyboarding
A gigantic beach for surfers and body-boarders from all over the world.
Surfers and body-boarders constantly search for the best waves. With 850km of coastline, Portugal promises waves to suit every taste. The coastline is like one gigantic beach that is ideal for thrill-seekers.
Names like Ribeira d’Ilhas, ‘Coxos’ and ‘Super Tubos’ are world-famous, while the beaches of Ericeira and Peniche in the western region are a paradise for surfers too.
Other favourite spots are Figueira da Foz, Carcavelos, Costa da Caparica and Carrapateira.
For body-board fans, Praia Grande near Sintra is the favourite, but Espinho and Sagres are also rightly popular.
The national Mecca for windsurfers meanwhile is Guincho – the best in the world have been to Santa Maria beach. The wind and the waves guarantee a spectacle for the onlooker and sheer pleasure for those in the water.
So if you crave the adrenalin rush of good waves, visit Portugal.
Adventure Sports
With nature as your travelling companion, pay a high-energy visit to our parks and hills.
Overcome stimulating and different challenges. At sea or on land, you will find whatever your favourite activity somewhere here. And if you are no specialist, no problem. This is the right time to try some adventure and discover your preferred means of escape.
Hill walking and mountain biking are great ways to enjoy the landscape. The beauty of the Peneda-Gerês National Park and the Serra do Caramulo hills are up to meeting any expectation.
Take the high road. Enjoy the safe risks of climbing, abseiling or sliding. The Serra do Caramulo hills have a deserved reputation for their 300 metres of sheer drop. Not to worry. Touch down in the calm of the green fields below.
Or take to the skies. Linhares da Beira, in the heart of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, is our cathedral to hang-gliding. Look down upon the glacial valleys of this mountain and experience that burst of adrenaline.
Water is a source of energy. And canoeing, or rafting for the more adventurous, ensures activity packed days.
And in the middle of so much water, in this case the Atlantic Ocean, discover two of nature’s treasures. Walk the slopes of Madeira or try some whale spotting off the Azores: just two of the many unforgettable opportunities. And dive. Deep. To challenge yourself or simply discover the marvels of the underwater world.
Cetaceans in the Azores
Set in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are an archipelago of nine islands that are still in a very pure state.
Set in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are an archipelago of nine unspoilt islands. Sperm whales, whales and dolphins are to be found in great abundance in these waters, which are also rich in fish. Whaling was once an important activity for many of the islands.
Today, the whaling tradition has been converted into a highly popular tourist activity – whale watching, which first began on the island of Pico in 1989 and rapidly spread to the other islands in the archipelago.
Specially fitted boats make it possible to observe more than twenty-four different species of these great sea mammals, an unforgettable experience.
In recent years, some private companies on the island of Pico have included swimming with dolphins in their programmes.
Your whale watching adventure is carefully prepared on land by the skipper, who gives visitors a briefing to explain the various species that may be seen, the way in which the trip will develop and the special precautions that need to be taken.
An encounter with the blue whale, the world’s largest existing mammal, is a breathtaking experience that you will not want to miss.
And last but not least…your perfect accomodation is:
Grande Real Santa Eulália Resort & Hotel Spa
