Sintra Celebrates All Year
The enchanting hilltop town of Sintra, just 40 minutes from Lisbon, is commemorating 30 years of UNESCO World Heritage status. Known for its fairytale architecture surrounded by lush parks, Sintra is hosting 30 events throughout the year, targeting the youth. Highlights include the Sintra PH30 festival in December, outdoor activities like geocaching, mountain biking, and hiking, as well as escape rooms, murder mysteries, and live music.
Lisbon’s Answer to Tate Modern
The Macam modern art gallery recently opened in an impressive 18th-century palace near the 25 April Bridge, showcasing one of Portugal's finest private art collections. The gallery features over 600 artworks from renowned artists like Paula Rego and Marina Abramović. Visitors can enjoy a hotel, restaurant, and a live performance space in the complex, with exhibitions starting from £5.
Up-and-Coming Costa Verde
The Costa Verde, located between Porto and the Spanish border, is becoming a sought-after destination for walking and cycling trips. Known for its tranquil atmosphere compared to the Algarve, it offers quiet beaches, surf spots, and scenic inland views. Villa rental company Solmar Villas has recently expanded its offerings in this area, promoting towns like Vieira do Minho for hiking and Esposende for watersports.
Get Creative in the Alentejo
The O Val farmhouse, a restored 1930s estate in the Alentejo, now serves as a holiday rental and retreat venue. With spacious communal areas and a hilltop studio for creative workshops, it promises an inspiring getaway. Prices start at €830 a night for up to 10 guests.
Ebike Across Portugal
With a growing interest in cycling, Responsible Travel has launched new ebiking trips across Portugal. The Douro Valley tour includes vineyard visits, while the Atlantic Ring tour features cycling along rivers and coastal paths, stopping at historic cities. Prices start from €1,490 for eight nights.
Walk the Atlantic Coastal Path
Ramble Worldwide offers a self-guided walking holiday along the Rota Vicentina, a stunning coastal path in southwest Portugal. Covering 8½ to 14½ miles a day, this moderate trek allows hikers to explore picturesque towns and landscapes, with packages starting from £639 for seven nights.
Albufeira for Foodies
Albufeira will host Portugal’s National Gastronomy Day on July 26, focusing on regional bivalve delicacies. Known for its vibrant nightlife, Albufeira also boasts Michelin-starred restaurants like Vila Joya and Al Quimia. For seafood lovers, nearby towns like Olhão and Tavira are worth a visit.
Surf and Yoga Retreat
Eco Yoga Surf is launching its first retreat in Portugal at a stunning surf villa in Arrifana. The program includes daily yoga sessions, surfing lessons, and workshops on ocean ecosystems, priced at £1,195 for six nights.
A Perfect Night’s Sleep in Porto
Kodawari Flores, a new hotel in Porto, promises an unparalleled sleeping experience with premium bedding. Guests can also enjoy local tours, starting from £141 per night.
New Cottages in the Algarve
New holiday cottages have opened at Quinta do Pinheiro, located in the Ria Formosa nature reserve. With a focus on sustainability, these cottages offer a unique experience amidst nature, starting at €300 a night.
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