Travelbeat Inside Information Update: April 16, 2008 Portugal DISCOVER THE FORGOTTEN EUROPE Portugal is inexpensive, stunning and one of the most fascinating cultural destinations in Europe. An independent kingdom since 1143, Portugal established its continental frontiers in 1297 making it also one of the oldest nations in Europe. With superb beach resorts, wistful towns and landscapes wreathed in olive groves, vineyards and wheat fields; mouth-watering gastronomy and friendly people, make these just a few of the ingredients that spice up any experience of visiting Europe’s south-western most country. Lisbon, the enchanting capital set amongst architectural wealth offers a unique cultural diversity and Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site and bustling town has many historical sites such as the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral, the church of Cedofeita, and the Clérigos tower. However it is the natural beauty of Portugal’s oldest regions, which form the backdrop for this proud and traditional land. This beautiful destination is also fast becoming a fashionable wine trail. A semi-remote area in north eastern Portugal with small, winding roads that wrap around steeply terraced vineyards, the Douro River Valley was once better known as a sleepy getaway for the stiff British crowd who quietly toured the region’s quintas, or port wine estates. These days, however, this rugged valley is on the edge of popularity for wine-lovers the world through, offering new luxury hotels with A$1,600-a-night suites, restaurants with Michelin-starred chefs, and new wineries designed by famous architects. Portugal's strength as a holiday destination is its diversity, a something-for-everyone kind of place for everyone. Such variety suits the modern traveller, who today prefers to spend more time in search of history and culture than on the beach. And with a history stretching right back to Palaeolithic times, Portugal has plenty to interest the curious visitor. But, above all, it is the behaviour of the Portuguese people themselves that will make the biggest impression on all who visit, particularly away from the cities where some local customs and traditions have been preserved for centuries and religion and folklore go hand-in-hand. Portugal is the last real old place in Europe and is without a doubt a traveller's treasure trove, largely undiscovered but freely available to anyone looking for someplace different. It is a country of outstanding natural beauty, scattered with medieval towns and historic castles and palaces. The best advice is to explore it bit by bit, allowing yourself time to appreciate what each region has to offer in the way of cultural attractions, monuments, and gastronomic specialities. (Eastern Eurotours & Mediterranean Holidays) Back to Front Page