Portugal |
| Friday, 15 February 2008 00:00 |
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Portugal is the land of poets, great landscapes and the sea. Crossing the country you also cross various climate regions. In the north the weather tends to be
colder and humid. This climate is perfect for growing things: wine, fruits, and apparently humans – the majority of Portuguese live in the northern part of their home country. You should take a trip into the vineyards and try some of the local Vinho Verde. The mountains in the north east offer a great view over the vast Portuguese lands. Taking your car cross-country you should go through the Penada- Gerês National Park where some of Portugal’s best forests are preserved. Central Portugal contains the most popular skiing region, as the mountains here tend to have a lot of snow during winter. In spring the sun uncovers extensive vineyards. No tourist to Portugal should miss out on Lisbon, the capital, set in a bay on the river Tejo. The city has a population of roughly 518,000, the entire metropolitan area makes for about one third of Portugal’s population. Take a few days to explore the city, as just a pit stop won’t give you enough to see all the sights. To get a good taste of Portuguese culture cross all districts of Lisbon, which is divided into the lower town Baixa along the Tejo shores, the old town Alfama, and the upper town Bairro Alto. Take some time to let the town inspire you. Driving south you automatically drive towards summer. South Portugal has warm and dry weather, making it a popular holiday destination for beach fans from all over Europe. The Algarve region has great beaches and offers plenty of tourist infrastructures. If you are not a big fan of holiday crowds go further inland and enjoy the vast wheat and flower fields. Taking your rental car all across Portugal is a great way of spending a few weeks in the sun, take your feet out on a good hike, and sample south-European lifestyle. |
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