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| Câmara de Lobos, Madeira |
With this romantic program by TravelTailors you will discover the most romantic and secret places of Portugal, in South and Madeira: hotels, palaces, gardens and beaches. It offers you intimate hotels and fine dining. It suggests other activities ideal for two, like cooking classes, SPA and walks; it´s perfect for an incomparable honeymoon in Portugal!
DAY 1: LISBON
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| Castle of São Jorge |
Lisbon is one of the most fascinating cities in Europe! With blue skies almost all year round and a mild winter, Lisbon offers breathtaking panoramas of the city and the river, a picturesque setting where old trams take us from the narrow cobbled streets up to the excellent new hotels in broad boulevards, fabulous shopping opportunities of brand name and a fantastic nightlife. The old blends with the sophistication of the 21st century.
Alfama and the Castle give you a historic Journey to the Arab and medieval times. In the areas of Chiado, Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real, you can find some of the trendiest restaurants and bars in Lisbon. During the day, the streets are filled with animated crowds strolling around the museums, the shops, the art galleries, the cafes or grocery stores that sell gourmet products. From the Baixa to the Marquês de Pombal Square, there are theaters, train stations, esplanades and alleys to take a walk in. In Belém, lies the majestic Jerónimos Monastery, the famous Tower of Belém, the Cultural Centre and the many museums and gardens that surround them. It is imperative to sample the delicious Pastéis de Belém!
Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in a charming restaurant in Lisbon.
The TravelTailors´ recommendation occupies a pleasant courtyard and a romantic flowered pateo. It presents a true and authentic cuisine, which seeks to recover the traditional flavors, giving them a creative touch, courtesy of the chef. Intimate atmosphere, impeccable service and a balanced offer of wines.
Lisbon by night : suggestion of esplanade LE CHAT and disco BBC.
Located opposite the National Museum of Ancient Art, LE CHAT is literally a terrace bar facing the Tagus, with fantastic views over the city and river. It had already worked as a terrace, having reopened in this new version, in which the architecture of the space is a glass cube, in October 2010. During the day it serves light meals, and you can have lunch or tea in the beautiful and sunny terrace, which is kept warm in winter and comfortable with heaters and blankets. Also noteworthy is the menu of cocktails , very varied and original.
The Bar Lounge BBC has a refined and relaxed environment, with a privileged view over the River Tagus. The program always has the latest news from the dance floor from Thursday to Saturday. Good music and good atmosphere make the BBC a reference of Lisbon´s night.
Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.
DAY 2: LISBON - SINTRA - CASCAIS
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Pena Palace |
The beautiful town of Sintra is entirely filled with magic and splendor: a romantic realm where majestic palaces, a fairytale castle, royal mansions and fascinating properties emerge in the midst of hills and lush forests. Characterized by its unique charm and serenity, the village offers an amazing beauty of scenery, with its vast rocky mountains, dense vegetation and pristine beaches. Designated Mountain of the Moon by the Celts and Mons Lunae by the Romans, the mystical mountains of Sintra also cover a vast natural park that stretches to the coast of Cascais. After tasting a sweet travesseiro of Sintra in the emblematic pastry shop Periquita, visit the most romantic monuments of Sintra, like the Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, the Capuchos´Convent, the Regaleira and the Monserrate Palaces. We suggest you descend these forest surrounded streets in a horse carriage, all the way to the center.
Around 12.30 pm: suggestion of lunch in romantic restaurant, in Sintra.
Our suggestion goes to one of the oldest restaurants in Sintra, giving you a good meal of regional Portuguese dishes or French flavors, with a quiet and family atmosphere. Correct and friendly service. List of selected wines.
Journey to Cascais.
Cascais, traditionally a small fishing port, is today a lively and cosmopolitan city that still retains its aristocratic air. We recommend a walk along its streets that have shops of excellent quality or a moment's rest on the many esplanades that exist here. The beaches continue to be one of the biggest reasons of attraction, and you can choose between those that are in the sheltered bay of the town, or even those a bit further away in the Guincho area (already integrated in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park) that offer excellent conditions for surfing and windsurfing. The Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell), an indentation of the coast surrounded by steep cliffs and caves, remains a natural curiosity that attracts many visitors to see the force of the sea.
Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in panoramic restaurant, in Cascais.
TravelTailors suggests a restaurant with a magnificent view, located in Boca do Inferno. It is a gourmetrestaurant of reference, with Portuguese and Mediterranean influenced cuisine.
Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.
DAY 3: LISBON - ÉVORA
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| Temple of Diana |
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. Leave the worries of the modern world, and embrace the charm of Évora, Alentejo's most romantic city!
Suggestion: cooking class.
In one of the finest hotel properties in the city, you can learn to cook the most delicious delicacies. The magic of Alentejo´s cuisine is to create, with simple and traditional products, dishes where the taste and the pleasure of eating is a cultural act.
From 12:30: suggestion for lunch in an Alentejo inspired restaurant, in Évora.
Embark on a unique culinary journey and taste the traditional flavors of the local cuisine, which blend harmoniously with Mediterranean cuisine. Housed in an old cellar used by the monks, this is a gourmetrestaurant that provides a unique experience in an elegant setting filled with rich cultural heritage.
Relaxing activity in SPA.
We offer you an experience in what was considered the best SPA in Portugal. It is a perfect retreat with a luxurious atmosphere, in a place where the most modern therapies meet story. From the quality of the treatments, to the wonderful view of the relaxation room and the indoor pool, everything is designed to provide tranquility and rejuvenation of mind, body and soul. This SPA is installed in a luxury hotel, fascinating for its history and its authentic charm, considered national patrimony.
Some proposals:
Body Exfoliation with salts and oils 25min. | Eye-Lift 25min. | Aromatic Back Massage 30min.
Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in a traditional restaurant, in Évora.
This is admittedly one of the great "temples" of Portuguese cuisine. As a spreader of Alentejo´s cuisine, it has been deeply engaged in the task, collecting recipes from the region, some of which have almost disappeared, and resurfaced here accompanied by an excellent list of Alentejo´s wine.
Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.
DAY 4: ÉVORA - CASTELO DE VIDE AND MARVÃO - PORTALEGRE
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| Castelo de Vide |
Castelo de Vide is a beautiful village in Alentejo, on a hill in Serra de São Mamede, a place graced by beauty. The flowered white houses of the village that goes up and down the hill, crowned by the castle, traverses itself with years of history and a quite ancient occupation, since in the area there are several megalithic legacies such as the Menhir of Meada. There are several monuments and places of interest in the village, especially the top of the Castle and the beautiful scenery, but also the Jewry , one of the most important and well preserved examples of the Jewish presence in Portugal dating from the 13th century. It is also preserved here one of the largest estates of civil architecture from the Gothic period. In the majestic Square D. Pedro V, you can find the Church of São João Baptista, the Hospital, the Main Church, the Town Hall and several stately and emblazoned mansions that breathe history.
Journey to Marvão.
Very near to the Spanish border, at the highest point of the beautiful Serra de São Mamede, lies the charming village of Marvão in an environment of peace of mind and tranquility, surrounded by walls of the 13th and the 17th century.
From 12:30: suggestion for lunch in a traditional Alentejo food restaurant, in Marvão.
With the Alentejo region being renowned for the richness and variety of its excellent cuisine, we propose you to savor a delicious menu with flavors faithful to bread and olive oil, aromatic herbs, and to the taste of coriander and pennyroyal, in Dogfish´s Alhada and Alentejo´s Pork: varied tastes that should be well accompanied with good, traditional Alentejo wines, as well as the flavor of regional sausages and cheeses. And if your appetite persists, be sure to taste the conventual desserts, like the Toucinho do Céu or Sericaia with Elvas´ Plums.
Visit to Marvão.
By visiting Marvão, one has to make sure to visit history itself, that runs through these narrow streets of Alentejo architecture, Gothic and Manueline heritage, as well as medieval testimonies of other times, marked in the typical local granite. The Castle and the imposing walls of the 13th century are unforgettable monuments of the village, but Marvão has more to offer, like the 15th century Parish Church, the ancient Church of Santa Maria, now an interesting municipal museum, housing archaeological and ethnological collections from the region. From the top of Marvão one has breathtaking views across the surrounding area, highlighting points such as the Watchtowew or the Pousada de Santa Maria.
Journey to Portalegre.
Located in the Serra de São Mamede, near the border with Spain, Portalegre had a strategic position in the defense of the territory during the Middle Ages. The 17th and 18th centuries have left a strong baroque character in the city that still remains in some monuments, like the Church of São Lourenço, and the stately homes with examples such as the Yellow Palace, the Palace of the Falcons or the Achioli Palace, that still keep the crests of the families that lived there. Other attractions are the Convent of Santo Agostinho, Convent of São Bernardo, the jesuit Convent of São Sebastião, occupied by the Portalegre´s Manufacture of Tapestries or the Palace Castel-Branco, that recalls the contribution of the textile industry towards the development of the city.
Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Portalegre.
Three miles from Portalegre, the restaurant that we suggest is a temple of Alentejo cuisine with a hint of innovation, with a creative chefin charge. Small space, warm and very correct, with a terrace for warm days [/ i].
Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.
DAY 5: PORTALEGRE - VILA VIÇOSA - MONSARAZ
Journey to Vila Viçosa.
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| Ducal Palace |
Suggestion: visit to the Ducal Palace.
The Ducal Palace is isolated and emphasized on the so-called Terreiro do Paço, at the foot of the Castle´s hill. Opposite of it is the Church of Agostinhos, and near you can find the Bishop's Palace and the Convent of Chagas. Built in the 16th century, this palace was largely benefited during the 17th century and served as a royal residence.
From 12:30: suggestion for lunch in traditional Alentejo food restaurant, in Alandroal.
This is a restaurant created with originality. It seeks to recreate a courtyard, according to the architecture of the rural hills of Alentejo, within all the rural environment. In addition to the specialties, be sure to try the typical regional desserts.
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 all its splendor.
Suggestion: boat ride on the Alqueva.
Enjoy a boat ride on the great lake of Alqueva, from the Monsaraz harbor, allowing to overlook the riverside villages, castles and all that the nature of Alentejo has to offer.
Around 8.30 pm: 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 integrates itself within the landscape, featuring a modern line and a sensational terrace. The kitchen is typical of Alentejo, but with a touch of sophistication.
Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.
DAY 6: ALCÁCER DO SAL - LISBON
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| Alcácer do Sal |
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 is 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 feel like resting.
From 12:30: suggestion for lunch in traditional Portuguese 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 Arrábida, through 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 turquoise water (but be careful! cold) of Portinho da Arrábida.
Journey to Lisbon.
Crossing the April 25th Bridge, you will have one of the most spectacular panoramas of Lisbon.
Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in an author´s cuisine restaurant, in Bairro Alto.
This chefis one of the most talented of today and is now investing in Lisbon. The restaurant, painted white, is well lit. Everyday there is a new menu, that the chefbuilds as he wanders the aisles of the old Mercado da Ribeira, seeing what's on the stalls of vegetables, seafood and fish, meats and fruits. A major concern is to create new tasting menus, with seven / eight different proposals.
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.
Accommodation at the hotel of the selected category.
DAY 7: LISBON, CITY OF DESTINATION OR EXTENSION TO FUNCHAL (MADEIRA)
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| Funchal, Madeira |
Around 12.30 pm: lunch at the suggestion of fusion cuisine restaurant in Funchal.
This restaurant belongs to one of the best hotels in Madeira but it�s by intrinsic quality and appropriate right that it´s worth one, or more, visits. The large and broad windows let you enjoy a magnificent view of the outside. The menu appeals to a fusion cuisine, not forgetting the local specialties that are sure to make your mouth water.
Visit to the Botanical and Monte Palace gardens.
The Botanical Garden is one of the most famous in Madeira and is located on the Bom Sucesso Estate, with wonderful views over the city of Funchal. This estate was built in 1881 by the Reid family, who created the garden as their private park. Today the property belongs to the Regional Government and is open to the public. The garden covers an area of 80,000 m2 and houses a fascinating collection of species of plants, flowers and exotic birds as well as an area of research and conservation. Besides all these attractive features, the Botanical Garden also has a Museum of Natural History and a cable car that connects it to the Monte, which is another noteworthy attraction.
The Monte Palace Tropical Garden is located atop a beautiful hill with breathtaking views over the bay of Funchal. The Monte Palace was once a place of historical importance, since it was an 18th century upscale hotel that hosted many important guests. The Berardo Foundation turned this property into a beautiful museum and garden. Here you will find exotic plants and flowers of many continents and also animals such as ducks, white and black swans, peacocks, chickens and Koi carps. It is an unforgettable experience to take a walk in this beautiful garden.
Suggestion: Levada do Caldeirão Verde, pedestrian walk.
A levada is a path next to a water channel and is typically Madeiran. Madeira has dozens of flows in the heart of its laurel forest. This route, which starts at Forest Park of Queimadas (Santana) and ends in Caldeirão Verde, has a length of 6 km and an altitude of 990 meters. The Shelter House of Queimadas is honored in keeping the original characteristics of the typical houses of Santana and, from here, if you don�t stop to admire the stupendous views over Santana and São Jorge, you will take about an hour and a half to complete the route. This trail is extremely rich in its landscape adorned by waterfalls, flora and fauna.
Suggestion: relaxation activity in a SPA, in Funchal.
Try a dip in a 360º panoramic pool or have a vino therapy session. This spa offers varied programs of relaxation and beauty. Some proposals:
Exfoliation with grape seeds: 30ms. | Wine bath: 30ms. | Anti-stress Massage: 60ms.
Around 8.30 pm: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Funchal.
A known chef, with extensive knowledge of international cuisines, composed this project where an opportunity for locals and visitors to travel through this fascinating world is provided. This is a restaurant based on naturally rice rich recipes from around the world, that will be a requirement for the preparation of the dishes. The sea view is simply splendid.
Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.
DAY 8: FUNCHAL (CITY OF DESTINATION)
Journey to the city of destination.
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