Portugal occupies the southwest part of the Iberian
Peninsula and shares borders in the north and the east
with Spain. 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. The range runs
along the south coast which is one of the most popular resort
areas, with wide sandy beaches and attractive bays.
The Algarve's climate is temperate; the
temperature depending on altitude and distance from the sea. There
are long winters in the north, but the south is much milder. Rain
is plentiful and 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.
Though slightly overshadowed by its more popular
neighbor to the east, the Algarve remains one of Europe's unspoiled
treasures. This is a land of traditional villages and vibrant
cities. The entire is countryside strewn with historical treasures
and a wide assortment of World Heritage sites. Cultural wonders
offer a window into this once great seafaring nation. We
thoroughly recommend Algarve holiday
rentals, as it allows you the flexibility
to explore this wonderful holiday destination.
The country has an overall population of
approximately 10.7 million and is 35,655 sq miles. The
Capital of Portugal is Lisbon. Although
predominately Roman Catholic Country, there are a small
number of protestants, Jews and Muslims.
The Portuguese way of life is leisurely. They are famous
for warm hospitality and are polite people, The
country as a whole has a deep individual national character that
each province brings its own traditions and folklore to.
Booking 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 upscale
restaurants and its more delicate cuisine to the local "tascas",
you are guaranteed a delicious gastronomic experience . Wherever
you go throughout the country, whether it's the North for the
abundance of meat dishes, or the south, which is famous for its
wealth in Fish and shellfish specialties; you are going to love the
cuisine in Portugal.
