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.

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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

WALKING HISTORICAL VILLAGES OF PORTUGAL

Get to know Portugal in a different way, exploring this charming, friendly country by foot, often walking on 

Roman paths. Do this immersive complete time travel starting in Marvão and touring through unique 12th 

Century Historical Villages, like Monsanto, Sortelha or Idanha-a-Velha, where you can find archaeological remains from the Roman time or Moorish conquered areas.

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DAY 1: MARVÃO

Pick-up at the airport and van transfer to Marvão /approx. 2h45).
The medieval mountaintop village of Marvão is one of Portugal´s most spectacular fortified villages. Its greatest attraction is the unspoiled medieval atmosphere in its steep and narrow lanes with immaculately whitewashed houses, leading to a magnificent 13th century castle rising from the rock. Most rewarding of all is climbing onto the walls, battlements and towers for the impressive views, and staying for the stunning sunset and evening peace of the village. 
Afternoon - Marvão Roman path (3 km/ 1.9 mi | 1h30).
This short hiking trail will take us from the roman bridge of Portagem all the way up to the breathtaking village of 

Marvão trough the ancient Roman road. 

Lodging: Albergaria El Rei Dom Manuel.

DAY 2: INTERNATIONAL TEJO RIVER PARK | SALVATERRA DO EXTREMO TRAIL

Castel of Peñafiel

Salvaterra do Extremo is a small village located inside the International Tejo River Park and where the Erges River defines the border between Portugal and Spain.
The walking trail will take us to the border area were we can see the old Castel of Peñafiel on the Spanish side. This castle is on top of cliffs that shelter a large colony of griffon vultures (Gyps fulvus). Transfer from Salvaterra do Extremo to Monsanto.
Distance: 10,5 km/6,5 mi
Approximate time: 4 hours
Accumulated climbing: 221m/ 725 ft

Lodging: Casa do Chafariz

Monsanto

DAY 3: HISTORICAL VILLAGE OF MONSANTO | HISTORICAL VILLAGE OF IDANHA-A-VELHA TRAIL

Guided visit to Idanha-a-Velha. This picturesque village is also classified as a Historical Village of Portugal and hosts a interesting collection of archaeological remains from a Roman city established in the 1st Century B.C. We will walk to Monsanto, another Historical Village which was once considered the most Portuguese village of Portugal. From the top of its castle you can glimpse all the country surrounding Idanha and the large properties of the area. Free afternoon to visit Monsanto.
Distance: 10 km/6,5 mi
Approximate time: 3 hours
Accumulated climbing: 54 m
Lodging: Casa do Chafariz

DAY 4: SORTELHA AND BELMONTE HISTORICAL VILLAGES TOURS AND MUSEUMS

Sortelha Castle

Free morning in Monsanto or optional Penha Garcia walking trail. Penha Garcia walking trail is a small trail that goes down the Ponsul river valley, known for its water wheel mills and rare fossils. 
Afternoon: Guided visit the Historical Villages of Sortelha and Belmonte. The Historical Village of Sortelha is an extraordinary example of medieval architecture fortified by granite walls and protected by its Castle (National Monument).
Belmonte is the birthplace of Pedro Alvares Cabral, the discoverer of Brasil (1500). The town of Belmonte is indeed very much involved in the history of Portuguese Judaism, and it still shelters today the largest Jewish community in the country, whose origins go back to at least the 13th century. We will visit the local museums, observe the diverse existing heritage, and explore the quiet streets of this village.
Distance: 3,2 km/ 2 mi
Approximate time: 1 hours
Accumulated climbing: 140 m/ 460 ft
Lodging: Hotel Turismo de Trancoso

Marialva Castle

DAY 5: MÊDA TO HISTORICAL VILLAGE OF MARIALVA TRAIL

Short transfer from Trancoso to Mêda. We will begin our walk in the village of Mêda. We will walk through an ancient trail still used by the local people that connect this village to Marialva. The Historical Village of Marialva is a medieval walled village that will take you back in time, to when its brave inhabitants fought against the Spanish invaders. Its origins go back to the 6th Century b.c. Guided visit to Marialva. Free afternoon to visit Trancoso.
Distance: 8.4 km/ 5.2 mi
Approximate time: 2h30
Total climbing: 177 m/ 580 ft
Lodging: Hotel Turismo de Trancoso.


DAY 6: HISTORICAL VILLAGE OF CASTELO MENDO TRAIL | ALMEIDA HISTORICAL VILLAGE

Côa River

Transfer from Trancoso to Castelo Mendo. The Historical Village of Castelo Mendo was named after the first commander of the fort, D. Mendo Mendes, appointed by the King D. Dinis in the 14th century. This is a very authentic village, surrounded by a landscape of wide valleys, whose narrow lanes are lined with simple stone houses. It is so peaceful that it is difficult to imagine that in former times the medieval castle and walls were military bastions. The hiking trail will take us to the Côa River valley located at East of Castelo Mendo. The final stop will be the Historical Village of Almeida. Almeida is one of the crown jewels of Portuguese military architecture - the hexagonal shaped walls of Almeida´s fortress were built in the XVII century. Because of its location, very close to the Spanish border (only 7 km), Almeida played a very important role from Medieval ages to the XIX century. The main square in Almeida (XVII/XVIII centuries) is a perfect example of military baroque style.
Distance: 8.4 km/ 5.2 mi
Approximate time: 2h30
Total climbing: 288 m/ 944 ft
Lodging: Residencial Muralha.

DAY 7: HISTORICAL VILLAGE OF CASTELO RODRIGO TOUR | CALÇADA DE ALPAJARES TRAIL

Castelo Rodrigo

A short transfer will take us to the Historical Village of Castelo Rodrigo for a guided visit. This village used to be an important place for pilgrims who were going to Santiago de Compostela.
The Castle, dated from the 13th Century, was the stage for many battles, whether with Spanish troops, whether with the British ones. Outside Castelo Rodrigo we can see the Santa Maria de Aguiar Convent dated from the 12th Century, (founded between 1165 and 1170), probably as a benign monastery. After a guided visit a short transfer will take us to Barca d´Alva which is located
in a natural and protected area, known as International Natural Park of Douro, which is the habitat of several birds of prey. Our hike will be in the famous "Calçada de Alpajares". The path of Alpajares or Devil´s Path (Calçada do Diabo), as known locally, was part of a Roman road that crossed the Douro river and the Mosteiro stream.
Distance: 6.7 km/ 4.2 mi
Approximate time: 2h30
Accumulated climbing: 392 m / 1286 ft
Lodging: Residencial Muralha.

DAY 8: TRANSFER TO LISBOA

Transfer from Almeida to Lisboa (approx. 4h).

SCHIST VILLAGES FAMILY PROGRAM

A unique opportunity for you and your family to relax in intimate contact with nature (you can even bring your dog or cat). Learn firsthand the traditions of making bread or goat cheese and explore the woods and rivers in Serra da Lousã, Portugal. It will be a weekend to remember!

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DAY 1: IRONWORK OF ST. JOHN

(Optional) Transfer from Lisbon or Porto to St. John Smithy reception in the village.
In this village, you can still take part in activities that some of the 40 people still continue to perform. You can make goat cheese, be the shepherd of the flock community for a day, picking olives or grapes.
If driving you can visit some castles in the region, two Roman villas or even go to the Shrine of Fatima.

Accommodation and dinner at the home of the Valley of the Nest or House Joe Shoemaker.

The Valley's Nest house, seated in the valley is named, overlooks the village overlooking Iron John and his comb quartz. It is a small cottage renovated with environmental concerns and energy efficiency, making the balance between modern and traditional architecture of the region. The result is a high level of comfort in a rural setting with 3 bedrooms with toilet, panoramic room and kitchen. The huge balcony to enjoy the relaxing landscape of the valley surrounded by gardens, woodland gardens and small farming from where many of the ingredients for meals in the house: www.vn-nature.com.

The House of Joe Shoemaker was rebuilt and prepared to receive up to 10 people in a familiar and comfortable. Sharing a kitchen, living room and a courtyard, guests can choose one of four double rooms or the suite, all with bathroom privativa.Na reception, an old piece to grind corn reminds us of the reality of other times: www.casadozesapateiro.com

DAY 2: VILLAGE TRADITIONS

Today you have the opportunity of meeting the locals, visiting them in their own homes and learning about their ancient traditions.

The day will be filled by two main activities. First, have the opportunity to prepare your own delicious fresh goat cheese, from the moment we express milk the herd community. Then you can still learn to make bread in a wood oven. It's all in the midst of many conversations, stories and folktales. The meal will undoubtedly have a different flavor, tasting prepared than during the day!

Accommodation in the Valley of the Nest House or at the home of Joe Shoemaker. (Optional dinner.)

DAY 3: RAIL FLOCK (2,5 TO 4,8 KM./1 - 2,5 HOURS)

Today we walk through the beautiful Valley of St. John. 
Between rocks and streams, bridges and passing through cork forests, you will discover a new world of tranquility.
The Way of the Schist (4.8 kms) gives us different perspectives around this village. We start at the center of mountain biking, then following the shores of Ribeira da Ferrara. Along the way, you will find small mills with several traditional wells to draw water.

If you choose the longer route, you can still spot old water mills, cooling pools in the canyons of Riverside and finally, as at the end when it comes back to Smithy, a lush forest of oaks and corrals community, ex-libris history life of this village.

We are sure going to love this tour, during which children (and adults) can still be fun with a treasure hunt (geocaching) using GPS (optional).

Lunch along the way, with a hearty picnic lunch.

Transfer (optional) to Lisbon or Porto.

Portugal In Love: Honeymoon in the Center and North

This TravelTailors' romantic program takes you to discover the most romantic secret places of Portugal, northbound: hotels, palaces, rivers and gardens in the Douro, Buçaco, Aveiro and Oporto. It proposes wonderful hotels and intimate fine dining options, suggesting ideal activities for two as well, such as boat trips, SPA and sweets' tastings; perfect for an incomparable honeymoon!

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DAY 1: PORTO

Arrival in Porto. 
Porto is a charming town, situated on the slopes of the Douro River and very near to its mouth. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its beautiful monuments and historic buildings such as the imposing Cathedral or the Tower of Clerics, Porto is the second largest city of Portugal and has superb views over the river and the world famous Port Wine Cellars on the opposite bank, in Vila Nova de Gaia. The city provides a harmonious synthesis of ancient and contemporary attractions. Perched on top of hills and clinging to cliffs, attractive buildings, bridges and lamps guard the Douro River for centuries. Fiercely proud of their heritage, the citizens of this merchant town have invested their blood and sweat on their commerce and wine. Porto is a city ready for work and ready for fun. Nightclubs and restaurants mingle with cathedrals, churches and museums in narrow alleys and broad avenues. There are many cafes around the city, where you can relax after climbing the many hills of Porto. On the rooftops there are red tiles and the facades are often tiled. The city of Porto is very compact, which is great to do some exploring on foot, as long as you don't mind making an effort going uphill.

Until 18h30: Visit to the cellars of Porto and wine tasting. 
Port Wine is a fortified wine of world fame, produced exclusively from grapes from the Douro Wine Region, about 100 km east of Porto. The wine took the name of Porto, but it's on the opposite bank of the Douro in Gaia, that are installed fifteen cellars, greater temples of this nectar. The visit includes tastings of different varieties .

Around 20h30: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Porto. 
Conceived from the restoration of an early 20th century house, the sober and refined decoration of this TravelTailors' proposal has yet the boldness of contemporary interior architecture, which translates into a sophisticated and exclusive environment, combined with a modern, stylish and cosmopolitan gastronomic offer. An exceptional location with unique features in Porto. 

Porto by night : a suggestion for an evening out at Galerias de Paris and the Gare Club. 
There's something alive in the evenings at Porto. Accustomed to having polarized fun, the city has never seen so much connection between its offer. The inhabitants walk proudly - they have recovered the city's night. We descend to the axis of Clérigos, the biggest dynamo of the revived Porto night. On the Street of Galeria de Paris, the hottest, there are already several bars. Casa do Livro is one of them. On the parallel street, Cândido dos Reis, Plano B lives since 2006. There are also other bars and even stores like Mezzanine or Take Me.

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 2: PORTO - RÉGUA - VILA REAL - LAMEGO

Régua

9h20: suggestion of a train ride to Peso da Régua (approximate duration: 2h00). 
This train journey allows you to continue to enjoy a breathtaking landscape, largely thanks to the relentless hard work and care of local people. Delight yourself in the view, as the train winds along the Douro River!

Suggestion: sailing journey in the Douro River. 
The enjoyment is even greater, in a rabelo boat. Leave the port of Régua and go to Pinhão, with tasting of a typical snack on board.

Around 12h30: lunch in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Peso da Régua. 
This is a modern and sophisticated space, opposite the river Douro, which includes a restaurant and aWinebar , in a refined and young environment. The cuisine combines traditional flavors with national and international trends, without forgetting the strong ties to the wines of the oldest demarcated region in the world. The various suggestions can be accompanied by a glass of wine from the Douro Region. But what is really fascinating here is the fantastic view over the River! 

Journey to Vila Real. 
Vila Real is a beautiful and pleasant city, where one's gaze is lost in the mountains that surround it. Those who visit Vila Real will not cease to be amazed at the sight of numerous coats of arms, that bring glory to the facades of many buildings. The city seal, engraved with a sword and a bat, summarizes the history of its first count. The first town charter of Vila Real was granted by D. Dinis, in 1289.

Visit to Casa de Mateus and its gardens, in Vila Real. 
The Casa de Mateus, built in the first half of the 17th century, is a Baroque building composed of two lateral bodies connected by two perpendicular wings. According to some authors, Nicolau Nasoni may have had some intervention in the palace. The architectural ensemble is completed by the House's Chapel, the New Cellar (now converted to a temporary exhibition room), the Barrão (an old barn), and especially the magnificent French styled gardens of boxwood. The leafy garden that surrounds the manor, beyond its reflecting pool and areas of boxwood, also has an area of intense farming and orchards, whose products (wines, jams and jellies) can be purchased by visitors. 

Suggestion: wine tasting on an estate, Lamego. 
It has always been the family's dream of creating a unique space, where wine tourism would be privileged and wine would be divulged as a Douro bastion. It was in 2009 that the doors of this rustic and luxurious unit were opened. On the estate, the decor combines many pieces of classic furniture with contemporary, resulting in a beautiful and welcoming space. Here we can taste the fantastic wines.

Around 20h30: suggestion for lunch in a signature cuisine, in Peso da Régua.
Simultaneously a restaurant / Winebar and lounge , it's located in a railway warehouse, in the middle of the Douro region. The cuisine is modern and creative, based on the flavors of Douro. You can taste wines accompanied by gourmet products.

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 3: LAMEGO - BUÇACO

Hotel Palace Bussaco

Suggestion: SPA relaxation activity in Lamego. 
Among valleys and plains, where the River Douro meanders, there is an estate installed in a 19th century manor, now a modern space in a bucolic setting, which combines the best of the two sides. Here is a place where you can find tranquility, luxury and privacy of a thermal SPA with a steam room, sauna or herbal, or simply enjoy and relax on the water beds or in the magnificent indoor heated swimming pool with water jets of different intensities. It offers two complete lines of treatment.

We recommend:
Face Treatment: Total Mesosystem 1h25m. | Body Treatment: 2h10m ytsara saat purifying ritual. 

Journey to Buçaco, through Serra do Montemuro and Arouca. 
No matter how many mountains you see, you'll never forget the majesty of these 360º views!

Around 12h30: lunch at a regional cuisine restaurant, in Vale de Cambra. 
This is the only restaurant in the region that is decorated with the taste of the mountains and the smell of the sea. Located 11 km from the Serra de Freita, this restaurant boasts a magnificent view over Vale de Cambra. A meal here is a routine getaway due to most of its proposals, in terms of location, decor, service and cuisine. Each dish is carefully prepared and presented, basing itself on quality products.

Suggestion: Walk through the Arouca Geopark. 
The Arouca Geopark, corresponding to the administrative area of the municipality of Arouca, is recognized for its exceptional geological heritage of international importance, with particular emphasis on the giant Canelas' trilobites, for the Pedras Parideiras of Castanheira and the Vale of Paiva's ichnofossils.

Journey to Buçaco. 
A broad and majestic forest, the Serra do Buçaco is a true botanical garden where you can find about 700 native and exotic species, protected by a 17th century papal decree that threatened with excommunication whoever caused them harm.

Visit to the Hotel PALACE BUSSACO. 
The hotel PALACE BUSSACO is rated as one of the most beautiful historic hotels of the world, located in the Forest of Buçaco, it was designed in the late 19th century by the Italian architect Luigi Manini. Classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1996, it's integrated in an architectural and landscaping group that is considered unique. The architecture of the palace is characterized by a mix of elements gathered in monuments like the Tower of Belém, the Jerónimos Monastery or the Convent of Christ in Tomar, and its interior is decorated with tile panels, paintings and frescoes, depicting the Portuguese discoveries.
The hotel is lavishly furnished, the rooms are ample and have a breathtaking view. A romantic ex-libris ! 

Around 20h30: suggestion for dinner in a signature cuisine restaurant, in Buçaco. 
There are places that we have to visit at least once in our lifetime. The best of this restaurant is the environment, the refinement and rarity of the place. On the wine list we find great Portuguese wines, including Buçaco ones. For an evening that should be memorable!

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 4: BUÇACO - AVEIRO - PORTO

Moliceiro boat

Suggestion: guided tour of the Mata of Buçaco.

The Mata do Buçaco currently occupies approximately 105 hectares and has one of the finest European dendrologist collections, with about 250 species of trees and shrubs and many notable examples. It is one of the richest National Forests when it comes to natural, architectural and cultural heritage, and it can essentially be divided into three landscape units: Arboretum, Gardens and Valley of the Ferns and Relic Forest. In addition to the mysticism of the crystal clear waters and lush arboretum, MNB carries a wide diversity of animals that often, silently, go unnoticed. 

Journey to Aveiro. 
Ria's capital, a vast lagoon basin where the fresh waters of the river Vouga mingle with the sea waters, Aveiro, cut through by water streets where the colorful Moliceiro boats slide, is one of the most interesting cities of the Portuguese coast. From the Center channel, there are two routes: on the Left Bank, the graceful Art Nouveau buildings, the Fish Market, the Beira Mar neighborhood; on the Right Bank, are the Museum of Aveiro, in the Convent of Jesus, monuments and churches.

Around 12h30: lunch at a regional cuisine restaurant, in Aveiro. 
In a region where fresh fish is abundant, our suggestion goes towards a restaurant with well known and plentiful cooking, in which the highlights are national and regional dishes, cooked with excellency and fondness.

Moliceiro boat ride. 
Next to the Rossio, there are various types of anchored vessels, aboard which is possible to cruise the Ria, enjoying the saline formations, islands whose only inhabitants are ducks and other migratory birds, meandering channels and wide lagoons, where houses and trees are reflected in curious mirror play. Riding a Moliceiro boat is the most romantic option to discover the City of Water . 

Visit to the factory of soft eggs. 
Famous Portuguese sweets, in barrels or wafers, the Aveiro soft eggs should be very sweet and very yellow in color. In the Sweet Shop, their history is revealed and you can taste the monastic delicacies. Visitors can participate in the filling and cutting of this specialty. 

Journey to Porto. 

Around 20h30: Suggestion for dinner at a fusion cuisine restaurant, in Porto.
The TravelTailors' recommendation is located literally over the sea, on the beautiful beach of Ourigo, in the cosmopolitan area of Foz. The cuisine, varied and creative, ranges from sushi to Italian specialties, although essentially, the Mediterranean nature is predominant. The space is cleverly sophisticated, integrating itself fully into the landscape, with large wide windows overlooking the sea. The terrace allows you to take even greater advantage of the superb location, as well as the bar that functions on the outside.

Overnight at the hotel of the selected category.

DAY 5: PORTO - CITY OF DESTINATION

Journey to the city of destination.

I would like to offer a voucher/gift certificate that may be converted in one of your services. Is this possible?

Yes. You will be able to do it in two modalities: a) if you're aiming to give maximum liberty in the choice of the service, the voucher will have a value, defined by you, per example, 100 Euros and it will be valid for two years after the acquisition; b) if you want to offer a specific, predefined service, per example, a two nights stay in a specific Portuguese inn, the voucher will state just that (and not the cost) - in this case the validity varies case by case, but generally applicable for a specific season and subject to availability, which we will confirm when the person you offered the voucher to, contacts us to request the reservation.

In any of the cases, the payment of the voucher is due at the time of the purchase and not when the service is used.

Who should I contact if a problem arises during the trip?

In the travel documentation that you will receive before departure, you can find the telephone numbers that you can use at any time, clearly marked, and that include the local representative, the insurance company and TravelTailors. Whenever possible, you should first try to solve the situation through the local representative or directly with the hotel or respective service provider, since they will obviously have more possibility of acting in a timely manner and finding a better solution. In case this is not feasible for any reason, do contact us.

Which the language utilized by the local guides in the course of the journey?

In Latin America the guides speak Castilian; in the remainder of the world they speak English. In case you intend guides that speak another one language (namely Spanish, French or German), this is generally possible and it usually implies a supplement's charge. There are few destinations with available Portuguese speaking tour guides.

Why don't your programs refer specifically which hotels will be used?

Since we cannot guarantee the availability in specific hotels, the lodging can be booked in establishments of similar quality. Exceptionally, namely in case of reservations with short notice, it might be necessary to adjust the program using lower or upper category establishments, depending on availability, by means of the attribution of a discount or the application of a supplement. In any case, you just have to contact-us to know which hotels are planned for each location, and you may always request a specific hotel upon reservation, bearing in mind that in that case a supplement may apply if the tariff for that hotel are not within the price range of the program. Following the confirmation of the reservation and all services you'll be informed about the hotels booked.

Are the tour guides used in your travel arrangements Portuguese?

Generally, the programs that we propose include only local professional guides, the best experts on their region and on their culture. The guides in question are competent and reliable. In case it's necessary, the representative of the local operator will also be available. In some programs, properly identified and generally of a more adventurous kind, we propose set group departure dates and besides the local tour guides, you will have the accompaniment of a Portuguese (or other nationality depending on the group's nationalities) tour leader.

Is the programs' availability guaranteed?

No. You should contact-us in order to do a reservation; subsequently, we we'll check availability for the intended dates for all services involved (flights, hotels, guided tours, etc). We'll always look for similar alternatives or adjustments to the itinerary in case the service providers have no availability for a particular service, and we'll always keep you informed on the status. You should bear in mind that the sooner you make your reservation better are the odds of obtaining availability, especially in the flights.

I would like to travel to a specific country in a time of year that does not appear possible in your program. Does that mean that I cannot go?

Well, you can, and in some cases there are even some programs available in the market to that effect. But we prefer that you don't. If we did not include that trip in that month, is because normally the weather conditions are so adverse for the journey in question that we find that you will not come back satisfied. That might happen as a consequence of it coinciding with months of such intense rain that the roads may be affected and the journey depends on that mobility, or because the coldness is so severe that many hotels are closed and the services of mobility and guidance are limited, or because if your intention is going to the beach and in that month it's cold or raining cats and dogs all day... That does not necessarily mean that every month in which we've included that program the weather is going to be splendid!

Which is the best time of year for traveling to a specific destination?

In each program you can find the months during which we consider that it makes more sense to travel to the country or countries in question. Nevertheless, within that period, there is the possibility of existing a particular season specially recommended for climate reasons: ask us.

With how many people will I share the journey?

With exception of the programs specifically identified as group programs, the journeys that we suggest and organize are private, meaning, only with those with whom you chose to share the journey - being companion, family or friends. Eventually, some portions of the journey will have to be integrated in a group of others tourists, namely in transfers or some specific visits. In those cases that will be indicated in the description of the program. Some of our suggestions are planned for groups, with previously set dates, with the purpose of obtaining a more attractive price, especially if you are traveling alone or in a party of two, as well as a means of promoting the interaction with others travelers, Portuguese, or of the most diverse nationalities. In these cases the groups will have a maximum of 12-15 people.

The country that I would like to visit in my next trip does is not be included in the programs on your site. May I still rely on you to you organize it?

Of course you may! We keep on adding news suggestions whenever we are able to present the best and more diversified there is to offer for each country, including ours, after exhaustive analysis and always counting on trustworthy local operators. If we still haven't got to the country you are looking for, you can count on us, since we have the necessary tools, and nothing gives us more pleasure than planning journeys (besides doing them ourselves, that is!).

I like one of your programs but I would like to modify some things. Is it possible?

We are entirely available for adapting what are merely our suggestions, to your own personal taste, budget and available time, as long as it is attainable and that we consider that you will come back satisfied with the journey. That's why we are TravelTailors! You might want to shorten or lengthen a stay, eliminate activities or visits you are not interested in, add some others that are not included, request specific hotels - the effect of those alterations in regards to the initial proposed program will always be clear.

What are local airport taxes and why are they not included in the price of the flight?

Some airports opted to charge locally directly to the passenger the respective airport taxes, in these cases it is not possible to include it in the price of the airline ticket. When appropriate, we try to provide that information in the travel program, however, bear in mind that sudden alterations might occur without our knowledge.

Why do the prices of the flights vary so much?

An important part of the price of the flight corresponds to the tariff, which varies depending on demand: even inside the economy class, airlines attribute different classes of reservations with different prices, despite the service being exactly the same. The first seats to be sold are the ones with the price associated with the lower priced class, and when these run out, the price of the following class will apply, and this process goes on until, successively, all tariffs are sold. That's why it is fundamental to reserve with the maximum time in advance so you may access the most favorable tariffs: for some destinations, if in high season, the lower tariffs will cease to be available even with more than four months in advance. In most of the destinations that we suggest the flight has one stop in an European city, so you must bear in mind that not only Portuguese people will be looking for those flights.

Other price components are the fuel taxes (which vary according to the fuel prices), security and airport taxes.