Holiday Guide - Villa Rentals in Portugal

Villas & Apartments in Portugal

Portugal occupies the southwest part of the Iberian Peninsula and shares borders in the north and the east with Spain, while to the south and west lies the Atlantic Ocean. The country is divided into various provinces, including the Atlantic islands of Madeira and the Azores; the latter lying some 760 miles due west of Lisbon. The Douro, Guadiana and Tejo (Tagus) rivers flow across the border from Spain. North Portugal is mountainous, the highest part being the Serra da Estrela. The vast plains of the Alentejo region stretch south of Lisbon. A range of mountains divides the Alentejo from the Algarve, which runs along the south coast, and is one of the most popular resort areas with wide sandy beaches and attractive bays.

Portugal's climate is temperate; the temperature depending on altitude and distance from the sea. There are long winters in the north with the south being much milder. Rain is plentiful, so except for parts of the far south the countryside is green and fertile. The Island of Madeira is subtropical and the Azores have a number of volcanoes.

Thoughslightly overshadowed by its more popular neighbour to the east, Portugal remains one of Europe's unspoilt treasures, this land of traditional villages and vibrant cities has a countryside strewn with historical treasures and a wide assortment of World Heritage sites - cultural wonders that offer a window into this once great seafaring nation. We thoroughly recommend portugal villa holidays, as it allows you the flexibility to explore this wonderful holiday destination.

The country has an overall population of approximatly 10.7 million and is 35,655 sq miles. The Capital of Portugal is Lisbon, A predominately Roman Catholic Country, however there are a small number of protestants, Jews and muslims.

The Portuguese way of life is leisurely, warm hospitality and polite people, The country as a whole has a deep individual national character, although each province brings its own traditions and folklore. Booking a villas in portugal is the only way to truely experience this laid back culture.

Given its long coastline it is not surprising that seafood plays a major part in Portugal's cuisine. From the upmarket restaurants and its more delicate cuisine to the local “tascas”, you are guaranteed a delicious gastronomic experience , wherever you go throughout the Country, be it the North for the abundance of meat dishes to the South a wealth in Fish and shellfish specialities.

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