Portugal is Number One for Summer Sun

Despite its proximity to Spain, Portugal remains one of Europe’s best kept secrets. With its stunning Atlantic coastline, dramatic mountains, crystal clear lakes and Baroque architecture, it surely is the jewel of southern Europe.

An ideal place for backpackers or those on a gap year, Portugal has many activities to offer, from rock climbing, rafting or canoeing; it’s an adventure sports lover’s paradise.

The north of the country boasts some exquisite national parks, housing sleepy villages, ancient castles and rare species, such as Golden Eagles and wild ponies; it’s the perfect place to get back to nature, whether you are travelling alone, as a couple or indulging in family holidays abroad.

Not content with canoeing the crystal clear waters of the Minho River or mountain biking through forested valleys, then there’s plenty more to see and do.

Central Portugal is home to the Serra Da Estrela, where in lies Portugal’s only ski resort, an ideal place for a family winter holiday. Explore the beautiful granite villages and fortresses which have stood guard over Portugal’s colourful history for hundreds of years.

History buffs won’t find a better city than Lisbon. Portugal’s capital was once one of the most powerful and important ports in the world, reigning supreme over an empire that spanned from South America to Africa and Asia; it boasts a wealth of monuments that stand testament to its vibrant past.

If it’s night life you’re after, then look no further, Lisbon is fast becoming one of Europe’s trendiest cities, with a wealth of late night cafés, restaurants and nightclubs, it’s time to put on those dancing shoes and explore the cities many unique venues!

After all that excitement you could be forgiven for wanting a little time to relax and rest those tired feet, and once again Portugal won’t leave you disappointed. There are some great Portugal villas to book for your trip, wherever in this scenic country you visit.

With its expanse of coastline and near perfect weather, it is little wonder that Portugal has become known as one of the best beach destinations there is to offer. Whether it’s sunning yourself on the Algarve or heading for one of the 18 Blue Flag beaches a stone’s throw from the capital, you’re sure to find the perfect place to enjoy.

The seaside resorts are filled with many wonderful restaurants serving the best local cuisine, with the Portuguese having enough recipes to eat a different variety of Bacalhau (dried cod) every day of the year. And you can wash that down with a glass of wine straight from Douro, the world’s oldest wine region.

And still not had enough adventure? Due to its Atlantic coast Portugal boasts some of the best surf spots in Europe – so why not grab your board, head on over and ride some waves? There’s plenty of surf to be had, from beaches perfect for the beginner, to a more hair-raising ride.

With so much to offer; from culture to nature, from nightlife to lazy days spent sunning yourself on the beach, as well as some of the best villas for self-catering getaways, Portugal truly is a great place to start your Europe adventure or end the trip of a lifetime.