Wednesday, 4 July 2012

The Best SPA's in Portugal - South and the Azores

The Best SPA's in Portugal - South and the Azores 6 days
TravelTailors offers you the relaxing and innovative properties of the best Portuguese SPA´s, located in naturally soothing landscapes; the finest options were selected, enhancing your beauty and well-being experience. Massages, trips and nature are in harmony in Lisbon, Alentejo and Azores.


DAY 1  LISBON - BEJA

Journey to Beja.
Alentejo is a region of plains, without high altitudes, where rest and tranquility are capital gains, offering a vast landscape where the cork and olive trees are joined. In the place where Beja is located there is evidence of occupation since ancient times, but it was the domination of the Roman Empire that contributed the most to its development. The site was renamed Pax Julia and was promoted to administrative and judicial capital. The current urban plan of Beja is based on the Roman city and the doors of Évora and Mértola that mark the ancient wall entries. Conquered for the first time by the Christians in 1162, it suffered several attacks from Muslims and only had definitive peace in 1253, with King Afonso III. At the end of the century, King D. Dinis had the Castle built, whose keep became the ex-libris of the city. The royal patronage was marked by several monuments that are worth a visit, namely the Convent of Conceição, the Church of Misericórdia, the Convent of São Francisco, that is now a Pousada, the Church of Santiago, and the Church of Pé da Cruz. To discover the city of Beja, the Golden Plain Tourism Region has 30 Petras available (bicycles).

Relaxation activity in SPA, in Albernoa.
At the heart of Alentejo, wrapped in the bucolic landscape, inspiration for countless poets, the muse of many songs, this SPA is located in a luxurious rural mountain that is quite harmonized with the region . Whitewashed walls match the modern and bold decor that prevails in the interior. In this SPA you can enjoy an invigorating, tonic and aromatic environment. An unforgettable experience.

Face Rituals:

Eucalyptus and Cypress Skin Gourmet oxygenates, rebalances and provides vitamins. The skin regains comfort, elasticity and well-being.
Sandalwood and Sage Skin Acqua : moisturizes, calms, removes the skin�s stress. The skin irradiates health.
Rosemary and Mint Vital Skin : tones, smooth the features, revitalizes. The skin rejuvenates.

Body Rituals:

Relaxing Ritual : concentrate of active relaxing ingredients, lotus, bamboo and water lilies. Using relaxing motions, pressures and stretching, this ritual relaxes, harmonizes and rebalances as well as offering well-being.
Toning Ritual : a energy cocktail for energizing tired and devitalized skin. A treatment focused on invigorative active ingredients: lotus flower, white tea and hibiscus.
Detoxing Ritual : concentrated in detoxifying active ingredients, lotus flowers and essential oils. It favors drainage and the elimination of toxins, remodeling the silhouette and providing well-being.


Around 20h30: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Albernoa.
This is a modern and welcoming space, marked by glass walls that allow the surrounding nature to accompany you to the table. Here a signature cuisine is offered, where regional products are privileged. Each week, the team prepares different tasting menus, being also possible, by appointment, to order typical Alentejo dishes such as rooster stew or lamb stew.

Overnight in hotel of the selected category.
DAY 2  BEJA - ÉVORA - MARVÃO
Journey to Monsaraz.
Monsaraz is a medieval town, the oldest in the municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz and it has evidence of settlements since prehistoric times. In 1157 it was conquered from the Moors by Geraldo Geraldes The Fearless, in 1167 donated to the Templars and in 1319 to the Order of Christ. For centuries, the Castle of Monsaraz played an important role as a sentinel of the Guadiana River, watching the border with Spain. Besides all the historical, architectural and social patrimony, Monsaraz is surrounded by a wonderful landscape, and from the top of its castle, you can see it in its entire splendor.

Suggestion: boat ride on the Alqueva.
Enjoy a boat ride on the great lake of Alqueva, from the harbor of Monsaraz, allowing you to overlook the riverside villages, castles and all that the nature of Alentejo has to offer.

Around 12h30: suggestion for dinner in panoramic restaurant, in Portel.
This panoramic restaurant is located on the waters of the Great Lake, the Alqueva Dam. A quiet place, of serene waters and green hills dotted with white houses. The restaurant is part of the landscape, featuring a modern line and a sensational terrace. The cooking is typical of Alentejo, but with a touch of sophistication.

Journey to Évora.
Évora is one of the most emblematic Portuguese cities. Its beautiful historic center has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Places of unavoidable visit are its imposing Cathedral, built between 1186 and 1204, the notorious Roman Temple (popularly dubbed the Temple of Diana), built between the I and III centuries AD, the Church of São Francisco and its famous Chapel of Bones, the beautiful Lóios' Church (15th century), or the Palace of D. Manuel. The nearly 20 churches and monasteries of the city denote their religious and historical significance. A very local and central attraction is the famous Praça do Giraldo, with Arabian-style arches and a fountain dating from 1571, a meeting place for all generations, animation and special performances.

Around 20h30: suggestion for dinner in signature cuisine restaurant, in Évora.
Located on the ground floor of an ancient palace, the restaurant selected by TravelTailors has the gastronomical signature of a chef known for his wisdom when it comes to herbs. The menu has as its starting point Alentejo cuisine and develops its creative inspiration through Mediterranean flavors. The beautiful dining room with vaulted ceilings is elegantly decorated. Spacious tables, beautiful linens, proper glassware and service are adequate to the culinary excellence inspire refinement.

Overnight in hotel of the selected category.
DAY 3  ÉVORA - COMPORTA - LISBON
Relaxation activity in SPA, in Évora.
We offer you an experience in what was considered the best SPA in Portugal . It is a perfect retreat with a luxurious atmosphere, a place where the most modern therapies meet history. From the quality of the treatments, the wonderful view of the relaxation room and indoor pool, everything is designed to provide tranquility and rejuvenation of mind, body and soul. This SPA is installed in a luxurious hotel, fascinating for its history and authentic for its charm, considered National Heritage.

Some proposals:

Body Exfoliation with Salts and Oils 25 min. Exfoliation helps the removal of dead cells, restoring the vitality of the skin and protecting its hydration. It is an ideal treatment as preparation for any other body treatment.

Eastern Head Massage 25 min. A deeply relaxing treatment, where pressure is made on vital energy points, relieving tension accumulated in the areas of the head, neck and shoulders, stimulating circulation and giving a pleasant feeling of well-being.

Eye-Lift 25 min. Perfect for all skin types that are beginning to show the first signs of aging around the eyes. A fantastic reaffirming and moisturizing treatment. It may be added to any facial or body treatment.

Aromatic Back Massage 30 min. Exfoliation treatment and back massage for an absolute relaxation, balance and well-being.

Journey to Alcácer do Sal
Located south of the district of Setúbal, the municipality of Alcácer do Sal rises over the tranquil River Sado, which mirrors the white of the houses that line the entire marginal. It is from the river that many families take their livelihood from, along with agriculture. The serene surrounding landscape rewards us with its marshlands, its plains, but especially with the unique riches of the Sado Estuary and all of its fauna and flora. It's impossible to miss the food, rich in river fish dishes, Alentejo flavors and pinenut candy, one of the essential ingredients by these margins.

Journey to Comporta.
We leave back the mountains, pine forests and undulating carpet of rice fields of the Natural Reserve of the Sado Estuary - a winter resort for the families of birds that come here to make their nests. The beaches here are beautiful, stretching for miles of white sand washed by calm waters, where you can't help but feel like resting.

Around 12:30: suggestion for lunch at a traditional cuisine restaurant, in Comporta.
Halfway through Comporta and Carvalhal, on the road connecting the two towns and their beaches, the restaurant proposed by TravelTailors makes its bet on traditional cuisine. Specializing in charcoal-grilled fish, this house offers a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Suggestion: horseback riding on the beach of Comporta.
An invigorating horseback ride on the beach of Comporta, natural reserve of the Sado Estuary with the Atlantic Ocean always present, for one hour, will certainly be nice!

Journey to Portinho da Arrábida via ferry from Setúbal.
The lush Natural Park offers a continuum of unforgettable images and is the ideal setting for a walk for two. This coastline provides you with white sandy beaches lined with dunes and cliffs for miles. Revel in the grandeur of the Serra da Arrábida, its beaches and its natural park.

Suggestion: beach at Portinho da Arrábida.
Enjoy the exceptional beauty of the scenery and the turquoise water (but be careful! It's cold) of Portinho da Arrábida.

Journey to Lisbon.
Crossing the April 25 Bridge, you will have one of the most spectacular panoramas of Lisbon.

Around 20h30: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant (Michelin star in 2012), in Belém.
You can choose from:

Cafeteria with Oyster & Sushi Bar : a relaxed and informal space with a spectacular terrace overlooking the marina along the waterfront, which proposes a timeless world cuisine.

Restaurant & Winebar : the perfect combination of sophisticated and unique flavors in the exclusive restaurant and Winebar with Portuguese signature cuisine (winner of a Michelin star in 2012) and a selection of the best varieties and crops.


Suggested night out: Foxtrot.
Foxtrot is one of the oldest bars in Lisbon, full of rooms and small nooks, in a recreation of the ambience of the bars from the end of the century, within the concept of an English pub. It is visited by politicians of São Bento and also young people, being an option for a drink after work. After a refurbishment, it kept the same Art Deco style but won an outdoor garden, to allow for better enjoyment of summer nights.

Overnight in hotel of the selected category.
DAY 4  LISBON - CITY OF DESTINATION OR EXTENSION TO THE AZORES
Suggestion: SPA relaxation activity in Lisbon.
This SPA is part of a design hotel located in Belém, marked by elegance, sophistication and the fantastic view over the Tagus River. You can relax in the heated indoor pool and enjoy the sauna and turkish bath. You will have the opportunity to relax while receiving a massage. This is an exceptional place to treat the body and mind, located in the Tagus River: 1000 m2 that create a holistic experience, combining the most advanced technology with Eastern rituals.

Try the parlors for treatments for two, floor therapy and experience showers:


Essence of Fire, 55 min. : energizing ritual performed with rhythmic massage movements with four hands. Ideal for those who feel out of energy, unmotivated or difficulties of concentration. Using a citrus and cinnamon based aromatherapy oil, this ritual will awaken your mind and invigorate your body, so that you can enjoy life with more enthusiasm, passion and creativity.

Suggestion: Before the ritual, take a peaceful stroll along the river; soak up the sun at the Sky Spa if the weather is nice, and at the end of the ritual drink an aromatic tea, hot and with invigorating spices.

Essence of Wind, 90 min. : holistic ritual that celebrates life through specific techniques of breathing and relaxation. Using aromatherapy oils of apricot, chamomile and eucalyptus, this massage incorporates a special selection of the best techniques of Eastern and Western massage, to cleanse the mind and bring back a feeling of total serenity. Feel alive and light as air.

Suggestion: Before the ritual, enjoy the Hammam and breathe in the fresh scent of eucalyptus. After the ritual, remain lying for about 30 minutes in the relax area and with your eyes closed and aired mind, remember the good times that life has provided you.

Journey to the city of destination.
DAY 5  EXTENSION TO THE AZORES
Journey to Ponta Delgada.
The city of Ponta Delgada owns a rich history and charming heritage, surrounded by the splendid nature of the island of São Miguel, which delights whoever beholds it. It was in the 19th century that Ponta Delgada had greater success and prosperity, even becoming one of the main and richest cities of the country, mainly due to strong exports of citrus to the fishing industry and the establishment of many foreign traders. This legacy is today visible in the colonial and romantic appearance of the city, giving it a beautiful environment. Standing out are its romantic gardens, its narrow and cobbled streets as well as several palaces.

Around 12h30: suggestion for lunch at a traditional Azores cuisine restaurant, in Ribeira Grande.
This is a spacious restaurant with large windows to the sea with personalized service and pleasant and comfortable ambience. A good place for regional cuisine with an international flair.

Suggestion: visit to the Gorreana tea plantations.
The emergence of the Azores tea dates back to the 19th century; with the disappearance of the orange, well traveled and wealthy people began to consider other options. And so began the production of tea around 1875 to 1876, with Gorreana being part of a family of six that started the business. Drinking tea is associated with several benefits, ranging from the fight against development of cancer cells to the prevention of heart problems.

Suggestion: visit to Lagoa do Fogo.
Lagoa do Fogo is one of the largest lakes in Azores and the second largest in the island of São Miguel and is classified as a natural reserve since 1974. This lake occupies the dormant volcano's large boiler, which forms the great volcanic massif of Serra de Água de Pau, located in the center of the island of São Miguel. This whole area is surrounded by dense and lush vegetation.

Visit to Furnas' boiling springs.
This is a complex that includes mineral water springs, used to treat rheumatism, bronchitis, skin and digestive tract diseases, in scientific use since 1870. It is located in the municipality of Povoação, on the island of São Miguel, Azores. As one of the largest thermal centers in the world, with about thirty varieties of water at various temperatures and gifted with a magnificent building, is a place of rest, relaxation and medicinal treatments. Integrated in this set are the thermal pavilions and hospital of the 19th century.

Around 20h30: Suggestion for dinner at an Azores inspired restaurant, in Ponta Delgada.
Housed in a charming hotel in the heart of Ponta Delgada, this restaurant seeks to dedicate itself to innovation and updating the Azorean cuisine, basing itself on the quality of local products and the canonical forms of confection as well as introducing new perspectives in the final presentation of the dishes, in an original and careful manner. With a modern and minimalist decor, this space has the collaboration of a prestigious chef , internationally awarded.

Ponta Delgada by night : a suggestion for an evening out.
The Galeria Arco 8, located next to the roundabout in Santa Clara, is a comfortable space where you can stay quietly with friends while listening to good music. The Bar has the particularity of displaying movies, art exhibitions and regularly features live music performances. Another highlight is the informal atmosphere and the excellent cocktails that are prepared here. Baía dos Anjos is a bar inserted into the Galerias Mar, which is governed by a monthly theme that reflects the Azores' today. It's a lively venue, with a frequent schedule and a familiar environment, assisted by photographs of the clients that are projected on the walls. Bar do Pi is located in Galeria Portas do Mar, which includes the fantastic panorama that you can get from the terrace. A young and relaxed environment, with several parties planned, focusing on week-ends.

Overnight in hotel of the selected category.
DAY 6  PONTA DELGADA - CITY OF DESTINATION
Relaxation activity in SPA, in Ponta Delgada.
This hotel has a spa service full with massage and treatment rooms, hair and beauty services. Some proposals:
Ritual Love of the Island, 60 min. : enter the richness of the island and come feel the aromas and their sounds. Let yourself go with the magic. We start with a head massage to the sound of Azorean music, rocking you to the rhythm of the sea. Delight yourself in 100% natural green or black tea and citrus fruits based ritual. It will eliminate accumulated toxins and make you feel a deep holistic relaxation.

Eastern soul, 60 min. : feel the magic of this massage with Tridosha oriental oil (molded for three humors, vata, pitta and kapha) that contains Indian spices. A flow of mental and energetic balance is achieved thanks to the combination of neróli oil, lemon and poppy.

Cocoa Rêve, 60 min. : feel the properties of cocoa and ginger, that have a strong moisturizing and regenerating action. They fight cellulite and sagging, eliminating toxins from the skin and providing a touch of velvet.


Suggestion: panoramic tour to the Lagoon Sete Cidades.
The Caldeira das Sete Cidades is one of the most beautiful and magnificent lagoons of the island of São Miguel, with its wide crater of 12km of perimeter. The unforgettable scenery of Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul framed by steep slopes covered with trees and flowers, the shores and the small peninsula of Lagoa Azul invite to relaxing walks and picnics in quiet surroundings. Legend attributes the different coloration of the water to tears shed by a princess and a shepherd, who saw their love affair thwarted and that, crying, created the ponds in the crater. Inside the boiler, visit the picturesque village of Sete Cidades, with quaint houses of popular architecture and the parish church, neo-Gothic (19th century), green pastures and the modest, but attractive, Lagoa Santiago.

Suggestion: navigation for whale watching.
Whales, sperm whales and dolphins are abundant in these waters rich in fish, so much that whaling was an important activity in many islands of the Azores. Today, the whaling tradition has been converted into a much appreciated tourist trade: boats specially equipped allow observation of more than twenty-four species of these large mammals, in an authentic expedition to the sea, which will be recorded in your memory.

Journey to the city of destination.

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