PORTUGAL IN LOVE: HONEYMOON IN THE SOUTH AND MADEIRA

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

Castle of São Jorge

Arrival in Lisbon. 
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

Pena Palace

Visit to Sintra: Castle, palaces and gardens. 
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

Temple of Diana

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. 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

Castelo de Vide

Journey to 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. 

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

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)

Journey to the city of destination or extension to Funchal.

Funchal, Madeira

In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira Island rises dramatically from the sea, with its rocky cliffs and mountains intersected by deep valleys. The fertile volcanic soil and mild climate bring an abundance of paradise, giving Madeira the nickname Island of Flowers. In the 19th century, the rich and famous spent the winter here. Today, a new generation turns to Madeira for brisk walks in rugged mountainous terrain, its virgin forests and unspoiled nature as well as adventures like deep-sea fishing, diving and paragliding. The city of Funchal is set in a magnificent natural amphitheater facing the Atlantic, contrasting with the towering mountains. Situated in the south of the island of Madeira, off the sunniest coast implanted in the middle of banana plantations and beautiful gardens, Funchal is a fresh and relaxed city during the day and vibrant and eclectic at night, offering multiple leisure activities. You can visit the magnificent gardens, shop, wander through its picturesque streets and squares with Portuguese cobblestone pavements or simply enjoy the pleasant moments of rest in one of the esplanades of the central cafes. It pays to know the various museums and city monuments.

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.

TRIP TO PORTUGAL

Sintra

"Dear Paula,

Thank you for making our travel arrangements during our trip to Lisbon. We had a wonderful time. Each activity was well chosen to give us a great perspective of Lisbon and Portugese culture. Having Nuno as our tour guide added a great deal to our understanding of the culture and history and to getting an overview of the city. He was engaging and knowlegable and his tours were well planned. In hindsight, we would have wanted to spend time in the gardens of Sintra, but we didn't verbalize this to him. We think this would be a good addition. He was great! The Fado and dinner was a highlight of the trip. The food was authentic and very good. A perfect way to spend a beautiful evening in Lisbon. The sunset cruise was a nice way to see the city from another perspective and the excellent weather made the evening special. The Hotel Bario Alto was great- a little pricey, but we loved the location and the staff was excellent. Our plans to visit Portugal started with a switch of out time share into Madera and we added the stay in Lisbon to the itinerary. We had been to Portugal 30 years ago but never to Lisbon and we promised ourselves that we would return.  We hope to return to Portugal in the not too distant future. We want to explore Porto and the north next time.

Again, thanks for making the arrangements."

Read more testimonials!

EQUIDS OF PORTUGAL: HORSES AND DONKEYS

This TravelTailors programme introduces you to the diversity and nobility of the Portuguese equids pedigree, whether bred or wild. Try riding a horse or a donkey. Come to know the saddlers, harnesses and the fabrication of the appropriate garments to ride a horse.

Discover this programme http://www.travel-tailors.com/detalhado.php?i=389

Montesinho's Natural Park

DAY 1: BRAGANÇA

Journey to Bragança
Bragança is the capital of Trás-os-Montes region, in the northeast of Portugal. Fairly unexplored by tourism, this remote and hill country offers unique sights, historical villages, natural landscapes and an extremely rich gastronomy. Bragança is located at the end of Montesinho's Natural Park, one of Europe's wildest woodlands, with a wide diversity of fauna and flora.
Optional dinner at a restaurant, with views over the town and the historical area, that offers the traditional dishes of the north region and a wine list.

Lodging: Pousada de Bragança.

DAY 2: BRAGANÇA - GERÊS

Gerês National Park

Bragança was born in the 12th century and the medieval centre still remains quite untouched; it is characterized by the imposing Castle Keep, the Pelourinho (Pillory) resting on an unusual Lusitanian berrão (pre-historic granite pig), the Church of Santa Maria (Saint Mary) and the Domus Municipalis, a unique piece of architecture.
After king Manuel granted the New Charter in 1514, the city's development was largely due to the bishops who would reside here for half of the year. The royal and Episcopal influences characterising those times are reflected in the Church of São Vicente (St. Vincent), the Museum of Abade Baçal, the Chapel of Misericórdia, the Church of Santa Clara (Saint Claire) and finally in the Cathedral. No tour in this city is complete without paying a visit to the nearby Church of Castro de Avelãs, or a wander through the Montesinho Natural Park, where there are still commune style villages that form part of the region´s heritage.

Visit to a Miranda donkeys' game reserve and donkey ride.

The Miranda's donkey has unique features: dark-brown hair with lighter gradations at the back and the underside of the trunk; long and thick fur; big ears; large head; high stature, higher than 1,20m; and tame temperament. It's an endangered species and the local associations are struggling to protect it, promoting activities, such as rides, which are very pleasant to try.
Optional lunch at a restaurant in Macedo de Cavaleiros.
In an antique restored building, we will find a restaurant with a large and pleasant lounge, decorated in a rustic style with a remarkable taste, where the transmonstana's cuisine delicacies are wide and accurately cooked. 

Journey to Gerês National Park

At Portugal's northwest utmost, between Alto Minho and Trás-os-Montes, the Peneda-Gerês' mountain is the only Portuguese protected area classified as National Park. It's a different world where the human activity connects with the Nature in a harmonious way, preserving very old values and traditions from the village communities of Pitões das Júnias and Tourém.

Sighting of wild ponies .
The wild ponies, small wild horses that run around the hills, are very common. Probably, you will also find Barrosã breed bovines and Castro Laboreiro dogs, with dark fur, who keep the flocks. These latter move according to the seasons between the settlements of "Brandas" and "Inverneiras". Watch carefully, though you might sight a buck (the Park's symbol) or its predator, the Iberian wolf.

Optional dinner at a typical Minho restaurant.

Lodging at hotel.

DAY 3: GERÊS - ALCANENA - GOLEGÃ

Golegã Horse Fair

Journey to Alcanena.
Optional lunch at a restaurant in a small village near Alcanena. The cuisine is inspired in traditional recipes, with fresh products of the region. You should taste the grouper's Açorda or the Corado Duck.

Suggestion: visit to Paúl do Boquilobo game reserve .
Set in the confluence between the Tejo and the Almonda river, near Golegã, the Paúl do Boquilobo game reserve comprises an area with near 529 hectares. It's the only Portuguese protected area in the UNESCO World Network of Biospheres Reserves. Its interior areas are flooded almost the whole year, and they're covered with several and important aquatic plants and reedbeds. You can find here the biggest society of herons of the Iberian Peninsula. 
If it is happening, visit the Golegã Horse Fair 
The area of Golegã locates in a region of fertile soil. The connection to the farming encouraged the holding of fairs and markets. The festivities in honor of São Martinho (St. Martin), during the 18th century at the 11th of November, were the favorite ones for the horse breeders to show proudly its pedigree animals at equestrian contests and competitions. The event, that has been gradually gaining importance, it's the precedent of the present Golegã Horse Fair, with major national relevance in the equestrian specialty. While visiting this place, enjoy going for a walk at the romantic garden surrounding the old studio of Carlos Relvas, a well-known photographer of the 19th century, or seeing the Martins Correia Museum, a contemporary sculptor.

Visit to a fabricant of saddles, harnesses and boots and a farm with beautiful Lusitano horses and several regional products .
Optional tipical dinner at Golegã.

Lodging at hotel.

DAY 4: GOLEGÃ - ALTER DO CHÃO - LISBOA

Coudelaria Alter Real

Journey to Alter do Chão and visit to COUDELARIA ALTER REAL, in Alter do Chão.
The COUDELARIA ALTER REAL is near Alter do Chão, in the region of Alentejo. The old Coudelaria Real was founded by the king D. João V in 1748, with the aim of breeding Lusitano horses for the Royal Paddock. This was one of the most important institutions spreading Alter do Chão's name and preserving the equestrian purebred, expressed by the king's wish in "That this will always be kept a purebred". Today the Coudelaria holds a number of activities in its 300 hectares of beautiful landscape, where the peace of spirit resides. 
Nowadays, here we can find the Agricultural Vocacional School, the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art,a Campus of Évora's University, research centers of selection and improvement of the purebred, equestrian and sports infrastructures, a Falconry, amongst other institutions, such as Casa do Arneiro, a place for accommodating teachers and lecturers.
The Coudelaria also offers very interesting museums and zoo centers, and different educational activities, focused on the development and dissemination for the preservation of the environment, the heritage and the tourism. You must not miss the "mares exit", it occurs daily when the mares leave for pasture.

Optional lunch at a restaurant in Alter do Chão which pays homage to the tradicional cuisine of Alentejo.

Journey to Comporta. 
The Comporta beach is located in the limits of Sado Estuary Natural Reserve, what allows it to preserve its natural beauty. Behind it stay pastoral managements, pine forests and the rice fields, the winter resort to bird families that come to make their nests. These beaches are beautiful, with kilometers of white sand bathed by still waters that invite to rest. 

Horse ride in Comporta beach. 
This relaxing horse ride at Comporta beach, always accompanied by the Atlantic Ocean, lasts an hour, and it will surely be a pleasant experience.

Journey to Lisbon..
Optional dinner at one of Portugal's most emblematic restaurants and one of the world's oldest. Located in one of Lisbon's most historical and charming neighborhoods, it was for many years the venue of the country's great intellectual personalities, distinguished people or 'simple' bohemians. The cuisine, of contemporary inspiration, invests in ingredient's quality and cooking accuracy. 

Lisbon by night: suggestion of visiting the Bairro Alto (Fado's house) .
The Bairro Alto is one of the city's most paradigmatic and attractive neighborhoods. Tipical and popular, it has modern features, like clothing and design stores and bars, lots of bars. It's an ecletic and multicultural place where many people meet, what turns it into a great place to visit. It's indispensable to walk through it to find every street, alleyway and dead end. There are plenty of good restaurants there, side by side with intimist bookshops; there are tea rooms beside clothing and design stores, from some of the most distinguished Portuguese artists. It's a passionate neighborhood, full of glamour, mixing boldness and sophistication with tradition and antiqueness. Walking through Bairro Alto is an unrepeatable experience in any other place of the city. The fado, Lisbon's tipical song that repeatedly evokes the word "saudade", a kind of nostalgia, it's an important part of this neighborhood's charm. The true Lisbon's soul lies deeply and truly in fado. Love, destiny, sadness and nostalgia are fellings that are whispered in a strong but kind voice that can never be explained, only felt [Fado was declared Masterpiece of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2011.]

Lodging at hotel.

DAY 5: LISBON - CITY OF DESTINATION

Queluz Palace

Visit to QUELUZ PALACE.
The Queluz National Palace's history dates back to the end of the 16th century, with the marquises of Castelo Rodrig, but it's not until1747, with the future king D. Pedro III, that this Palace gains the status of Royal Palace, corresponding to its most remarkable period, when it fulfilled its purpose as Royal Family's summer retreat. By that time, the intimate relationship of the interiors with the garden was also strengthened, since the latter were conceived as a lengthening of the halls and a fundamental part of the architectural complex. It's a State Property since 1908, and it was classified as National Monument in 1910. It has been opened to the public as Museum of Decorative Arts in 1940. 
10h30 - Observation of the daily horse training in Queluz Palace
The horse training consists in the preparation for the equestrian art galas. It consists on a set of representative pictures of the atmosphere of the Old Royal Paddock and the evolution of the horse teaching to the higgest level. 

Optional sightseeing in the city of Lisbon.
Lisbon is one of Europe's most fascinating cities! With a blue sky almost all the year and a mild winter, Lisbon offers glamorous views of the city and the river, a picturesque atmosphere where old trams take us from the narrow graveled streets to the outstanding new hotels in large avenues, fabulous shopping opportunities and a fantastic nocturnal life. The old mixes with the 21th century sophistication. 
Alfama and the Castle give you an historical journey to the Arabic and medieval times. At Chiado, Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real, you can find some of Lisbon's most modern bars and restaurants. During the day, the streets are filled with lively crowds strolling through museums, stores, art galleries, coffees or even grocery stores that sell gourmet products. From Baixa to Marquês de Pombal there are theaters, trains stations, esplanades and great public promenades where you can stroll. At Belém, there are the imposing Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, the famous Torre de Belém, the Cultural Center and lots of museums and gardens in its surroundings. It's impossible to leave without tasting the delicious Pastéis de Belém!
End of journey.

NORTH OF LISBON - ÓBIDOS, ALCOBAÇA, NAZARÉ, FÁTIMA AND BATALHA

Make it a full day tour and discover the region north of Lisbon. The first stop is the medieval town of Óbidos. Then Alcobaça and its Dominican monastery. The next stop will be Nazaré, a traditional fishing village. Then we will visit Batalha, with its imposing Gothic church, before heading to Fatima, where the world famous Catholic shrine is located.

Find out more in our complete programs: North of Lisbon.

The route starts traversing a landscape dotted with windmills and orchards towards Óbidos, where we will have our first stop. You will be delighted with the harmonious architecture of this medieval city - just make sure you do not forget to try their delicious cherry brandy. After Óbidos, Alcobaça will be our next stop. The main attraction is the Dominican Monastery, where you can admire the elegant tombs of the Lusitanian version of Romeo and Juliet: Dom Pedro and Inês de Castro.

It’s time for a pause! There you can enjoy lunch in a typical Portuguese restaurant, and taste some of the delights of local cuisine. After that, our next stop will be Nazaré, a traditional fishing village know famous on account of the biggest wave for surfing, where you will have plenty of time to discover the legends and traditions of this jewel of the Atlantic coast of Portugal. Next stop will be in Batalha, where you will be dazzled by the grandeur and delicacy of its Gothic monastery, an architectural masterpiece of Gothic declared World Heritage by UNESCO.

To finish the tour, let's go to Fátima, where you can visit the world famous Catholic shrine and even attend a Christmas mass. This is a place considered sacred because it has been permanently associated with the Marian apparitions that occurred in Cova da Iria in 1917 and which were later recognized by the Catholic Church. The tour ends with a return to Lisbon.

ARRÁBIDA, WINE CASTLES AND MUCH MORE

Crossing the Tagus River in a relaxed way towards the Village of Sesimbra and his magnificent castle, where you will enjoy an endless magnificent landscape. Next stop is the wonderful Natural Park of Arrábida Mountain and his paradise beaches. After lunch you head to Azeitão, where is an area of farms and vineyards. On the way back to Lisbon, you will stop at the viewpoint Christ the King.

Find out more in our complete programs: Arrábida.

We are going to head south! The first stop is in Village of Sesimbra, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the bay, offered by Sesimbra Castle. Due to its particular position at the Setúbal Bay, near the mouth of the Sado River and its natural harbour, Sesimbra is an important fishing town famous for its beaches, fish restaurants and nightlife.

Next stop is the wonderful Natural Park of Arrábida Mountain and his paradise beaches. This place was declared a Natural Park in 1976 to protect the many species existent here and some of the areas can only be visited with official authorization. After this unforgettable experience, you will have the opportunity to lunch in the city of Setubal, where you can taste one of the best fishes in the world!

Then we will visit Azeitão, located 30 km away from Lisbon, we will find an area of farms and vineyards. Here, we will visit a winery, where the oldest table red wine in Portugal was bottled. You will have the

opportunity to taste this wonderful nectar as well as the muscat wine liqueur typical of this region, a true

delight that we won't forget! After the tasting and to

keep us full of energy, we will try some typical products of this region.

LISBON AT NIGHT - DINNER AND FADO

A soundtrack of any visit to Lisbon must be fado, the musical genre that is a window to the Portuguese soul. This evening tour allows you to immerse in the atmosphere of the city before dinner at a restaurant with fado how special monitoring. The evening will start with a panoramic tour of some of the most important sites and monuments, both as monumental suburb of Belém in Lisbon center.

Find out more in our complete programs: Lisbon at night.

The tour starts at 8pm at Parque Eduardo VII. From there you will enjoy a panoramic view from the most important places and monuments of the city, in Belém. Here you can find a place where the monuments reflect centuries of history and traditions. On the banks of the Tagus River, Torre de Belém and Padrão dos Descobrimentos will be some of the historic buildings that you can enjoy in this tour.

The circuit continues to the centre of Lisbon, where the historic portuguese icons like Praça do Comércio, Rossio and Marquês de Pombal will be photographed by you. Enjoy the downtown and visit the most renowned shopping district of the city. Here you can see the contrast between modern and ancient: contemporary shops alongside neighborhood grocery stores.

Then it will be time for the highlight of the evening: a dinner to the accompaniment of traditional fado. Fado is currently a world wide known symbol of Portugal, being represented for many years in foreign countries by Amália Rodrigues, and more recently by Dulce Pontes, Mariza and Katia Guerreiro, among others. These nostalgic and melancholic songs are considered the ultimate expression of the spirit of Portugal: tinged with sadness and beauty. Fall in love with this style of music and then you can enjoy the delights of Portuguese cuisine.

SINTRA, THE MOST ROMANTIC PLACE IN PORTUGAL

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Sintra, Portugal's most romantic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site considered to be one of the world's most unique towns. Enjoy a visit to the picturesque town of Cascais.

Find out more in our complete programs: Sintra or The Mystic Ride.

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.

DOURO, GRAPE HARVESTING AND HISTORICAL VILLAGES

Hike through Port Wine vineyards and visit Portugal's Historical Villages, with its castles and stone wall houses that have kept the same appearanc for centuries. The hike down of the famous Calçada de Alpajares, also named the Devil's Trail, is a must of the trip. It will take you to Barca de Alva, with breathtaking views of vineyards.

Find out more in our complete program: Douro and historical villages .

We will spend a very special day in Quinta Nova.You can have fun harvesting grapes (September and October tours), try the winecaching game, try one of the hiking trails in the farm or just relax by the pool. Quinta Nova offers you several options of hiking trails with amazing views of the Douro river and valley. In the harvest season (Sep. 15th to Oct. 15th), you will have the chance to harvest grapes with the specialists, try the first wine in the cellars and have a typical vintage lunch. The harvesting experience will finish with some Port and Douro wine tasting.

If you don't feel like harvesting grapes, you can try Winecaching. It's basically like Geocaching linked to wine and involves the discovery of "wine caches" spread throughout the Quinta among the vineyards.

In the next days you will experience a short train ride up to the town of Pocinho on the famous Douro railway road. After a short van transfer, we will begin our walks in area. We will walk through an ancient trail still used by the local people that connects the Historical Villages.

FESTIVALS OF VIANA DO CASTELO

TravelTailors offers you a unique cultural experience: participating in a great popular festival in Portugal. The

festivities in honour of Our Lady of Agony are the most popular and lively around all of Minho. They take place in the third week of August and include several parades with big heads Gigantones, zes-pereiras and a diverse choice of regional costumes and gold jewellery.

Find out more in our complete program: Festivals of Viana do Castelo.

The festivities in honor of Our Lady of Agony are the most popular and lively around all of Minho. They take place in the third week of August and include several parades with big heads, Gigantones, zes-pereiras, floats and a diverse choice of regional costumes, especially the necklaces, earrings and gold bracelets of women. This is considered the festival of the pilgrimage festivals. The cult of Our Lady of Agony goes back to the 18th century, with the first written reference to this event dating from 1744. Its essential trait is the devotion of the people of the sea, that reciprocate the graces received during storms or shipwrecks. Hence the main float was traditionally carried by fishermen and only since 1968 a fluvial procession began to be made, with the image of the saint, up the river Lima. Besides all these events, the fireworks, launched by the river Lima, are a unique show.

Throughout all day there will be countless activities and parades to delight anyone's view. The Historical and Ethnographic Parade takes place on the Avenue of the Combatants of the Great War, and the parade of costumes and stewardship go through several city streets.They are identified by the covered and worked towels that are hung on the balconies of the inhabitants.

Only since 1893 have Zabumba and Zes Pereiras, as well as Gigantones and Cabeçudos, entered the Pilgrimage. Colossal and grotesque figures, the Gigantones betray their remote and popular origin. Kings of the Party, they liven up the consecrated Pilgrimage revues that take placeevery year, at noon, on the Republic Square to the sound of a hundred bombs - and constitute the most garrulous and lurid procession of Alto Minho's imagery. Be amazed by the amount of gold that is worn these days and that parades around town! You can't leave without tasting the fried pastry Bola de Berlim from the Natario Bakery, known as the best in Portugal.

ALENTEJO COAST AND HILLS OF ALGARVE

If you are looking for a challenging bike ride this is the right tour for you. You will cover more than 600 km in 7 rides. As you pedal along the magnificent Atlantic coast of Portugal, you will explore the wild beaches of Alentejo, and the unspoiled hilly region of the Algarve. You will visit all the charming little villages along the way.

Find out more in our complete program: Alentejo Coast and Hills of Algarve.

Sagres beach

The ride starts through cork and olive tree groves, on the way to Santiago do Cacém, where we will visit the Roman ruins of Miróbriga. The trail will take us to the Atlantic coast and through the charming village of Porto Covo, near to Cercal do Alentejo. These first days of riding will combine very different landscapes - the cliffs and the wild beaches. We will also have the opportunity to visit Sagres - the town where Prince Henry the Navigator prepared many of Portugal’s discovery journeys.

Serra de Monchique

The West to East crossing of the Algarve will take

us on a route through olive, orange, fig and almond groves. We will stay in Caldas de Monchique, a popular spa since the Roman times, and where you can save some time for a full body massage! From there we are going on a loop ride that will take us to the highest point in the Algarve, the Fóia peak (902 m/ 2960 ft). This is a very challenging ride but the panoramic views from the peak are fantastic!

Cacela Velha

The last days of the trip are reserved for discover the best of the inland Algarve. Charming villages and rolling hills make this a great day of riding. In Silves, the former Moorish capital of the Algarve, the 11th century castle is well worth a visit. The last track will take us all the way to Spain completing our West/East crossing of the Algarve. The coastal village of Cacela Velha, with its beautiful white sand beach, and the 13th century castle in Castro Marim, are among today’s highlights.Then we will cross the Guadiana River, by taking a ferry transfer from Vila Real de Santo António to Ayamonte (Spain).

The last day will be spent in Lisbon, where you will have the afternoon to explore the unique mix of old and

new neighborhoods within Portugal’s capital, as well as its many interesting monuments and museums.

ALGARVE, SOUTHWEST ATLANTIC WAVES

Discover the best of the Portuguese South. A traditional village renewed to receive tourists just next to the last treasure of the Portuguese ocean coast, the southwestern desert and wild beaches. Apart from the beach, surf and scubadiving, the village location is ideal for walking, cycling and nature watching in the Natural Park and Algarve mountains.

Carrapateira

The trail starts in the dunes of Carrapateira beach, and then goes along the coastal plateau all the way to Amado beach, where you can see a large number of Seabirds on their nest, or passing through here during migration, and a large number of white stork nests in the rocky cliffs - something unique in the world. From Praia do Amado, the trail continues towards the interior, and the landscape begins to change. Gradually species such as mastic trees, the white-leaved rockrose, the sage-leaf rockrose and cork-oaks begin to appear.

Bordeira

At the village of Bordeira, the walk is through a wooded area, with eucalyptus, stone pines and some corkoaks. The fauna is varied: here can be found the typical species of Mediterranean, like scrubland-wild boar, Iberian hare, European rabbit or the mongoose, among others. Arriving to Ribeira do Tacual, you’ll enter in a valley, where the landscape changes and you come across areas of olive trees and wild junipers.

Saint Vincent cape

The trail that will lead you to the coast starts in an area of scrubby vegetations, mainly consisting of mastic trees, citus and strawberry trees. Then you will go uphill until you reach Torre D’Aspa (109m) where you'll have a great view of the beach cliffs. Then you will roam south to Saint Vicente cape, the most southwestern point of the European continent, a sacred place for Romans that named it Promontorium Sacrum. This is a privileged spot for bird watching during the autumn.



The entire journey can be made by bike, on trails that are especially made for that purpose.
Suggestion: With a GPS you can do it at your own pace and enjoy the beautiful scenery's that these trails have to offer us.

Come to Algarve!

THE BEST SPA'S IN PORTUGAL - CENTER AND NORTH

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 Oporto, the Estrela mountain range and the Douro area.

http://www.travel-tailors.com/detalhado.php?i=319&lang=eng

Serra da Estrela is the Portugal's highest mountain range in the mainland, with 1993 metres. The region excels in a unique natural beauty, with magnificent sceneries, which for centuries provided the raw materials needed for the production of its typical products: wool for the famous textiles and milk for the prestigious Serra da Estrela cheese. This place allows an encounter with nature and a variety of outdoor sports like skiing, hang gliding, paragliding or trekking, among others. Discover this privileged spot to enjoy days in pure nature.

The first mountain SPA of the country and one of the largest in Europe was built in Unhais da Serra. The wellness area has a complete offer that includes a gym, traditional and holistic massage techniques, and beauty treatments by Gernétic laboratory, renowned for its 100% natural active ingredients.

Between the valleys and uplands, where the river Douro meanders, there is a manor of the 19th century. Now it is a modern space in a bucolic setting. Lamego is a place where you can find tranquility, luxury and the privacy of a thermal spa with steam rooms, sauna or herbal, or simply enjoy and relax on the beds of water or in the magnificent indoor heated swimming pool with water jets of different intensities.

You can combine the experience of relaxation and the well being of the spa with other outside activities. Our suggestions are: 

A: Walk through the Natural Park of Serra da Estrela 

B: Visit to the boiling springs of Caldas de Aregos 

C: Visit to the cellars of Porto and wine tasting