Nature of Portugal - national parks and reserves for active recreation

Portugal is clearly divided into the northern wooded and southern plains parts. The south of the country is characterized in its appearance by the bright colors of ripening wheat, groves of olive trees, as well as cork oak plantations. The largest deep-water rivers of Portugal are the Tagus, Douro and Guadiale, which has its origin in Spain.

When and where to 'hang out' in Portugal - festivals and celebrations

The Portuguese are known to celebrate with joy all kinds of holidays and festivals. The reasons for celebrations could range from pilgrimages, …
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The most popular resort destination is the southern tip of the country, especially the Alargve region, which occupies more than 150 kilometer of coastal strip and stretches from Monte Gordo in the east to Lagos in the west. The northern part of the State is rich in small towns with fully preserved architectural monuments.

Portugal is rich, especially in protected original attractions. The largest and most famous is the Park, Penede-Gerês, famous for its shady groves, wild birds and animals. Close to the deep Douro, there is the Douro Park well suited for families with children. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Best visiting periods - the climate of Portugal

The Mediterranean climate is dominant in Portugal. The ocean has a huge influence on its formation. Air masses coming from the ocean make the …
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The garden of tropical plants “Monte”, located in Madeira, will offer guests an unforgettable experience with rides on a cable car, as well as leisure strolls through the Botanical Garden. The Monte village will allow the visitors of Portugal to feel the unique color of the country. The small town of Furnas located on the island of San Miguel in the Azores archipelago, will please fans who wish to explore the beauty of nature with its unique and clean lake located in the crater of a long extinct volcano.

Park “Bukasu” located on the west of Serra da Estrela, is a former territory of the monastery carefully guarded by the monks of the Order of the Carmelites since the 17th century. Age-old cedars brought to the country from Goan are abundantly planted on the huge territory (more than 400 hectares) of the monastery. In addition to the relict trees, the park has about 400 species of rare plants. The center of the reserve is the San Mamede Ridge, a habitat for bears. The protected natural area is a traditional place for eco-tourism popular in the modern world.

Overview of the optimal transportation means in Portugal

The transport infrastructure of Portugal is at a decent level. Most of the transport companies in the country are private owned. Due to constant …
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The Natsural do Estuarie do Sado Valley located near the Sado River, is the final migration point for more than 200 species of migratory birds. The storks traditionally stop on the eastern extremity and nest there, while the plains are chosen by violet herons and bitterns. The water areas are the dolphins’ habitat. Every day, they travel from Sado to the Atlantic Ocean and back.

Traditionally, this agrarian and religious southern country takes care of its natural resources, carefully guarding the protected areas, rich flora and fauna. For example, non-compliance with the rules for the use of combustible items and the indiscriminate dumping of lighted cigarette butts in the nature protection zone is punishable by imprisonment.

State construction and political life of Portugal

Portugal is a democratic state in which the Republican government predominates. The state functions on the basis of the Constitution, which was …
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It should be noted that the abundant natural wealth and warm climate of Portugal contributes to the development of tourism at any time of the year. Guests of the country can not only admire the pristine nature which are carefully preserved by the Portuguese, but also visit a variety of contact zoos, oceanariums and pristine lakes.

The main principle of preserving Portugal’s natural heritage is a clear division of land between specific owners. Thus, there is no “nobody’s” land in the country which remains without the care of any of the citizens. The presence of a fence around a piece of land indicates that it is a private property and as such, the presence of unauthorized persons is unwelcome. Friendly and hospitable people of warm Portugal, loving noisy fun and magnificently celebrating all holidays, is loyal to law-abiding guests of their sunny homeland.

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Portugal guide chapters 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Fantastic City Tours and Excursions in Portugal

Reference information

Map of all parks

National and city parks of Portugal
♥ Nature Park 'Alvão' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ Nature Park 'Arrábida' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ Nature Park 'Douro Internacional' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ World Heritage Site 'Laurisilva of Madeira' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ Nature Park 'Litoral Norte' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ Nature Park 'Madeira' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ Nature Park 'Montesinho' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Peneda-Gerês' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ Nature Park 'Ria Formosa' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ Nature Park 'Serra da Estrela' . On the map Show on the map

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Famous places and sights of Portugal

Palacio Nacional da Pena

From the series “The Most Inaccessible Buildings in the World”

The National Palace Pena in Portugal is the landmark of the importance of the state. The palace is located in the surroundings of the city of Sintra and was built on the top of the steep rock in 1840. From the outside, the palace is a typical medieval castle, although its age is only a little over 150 years. The palace was built by order of King Fernandu II, who used the majestic building as a summer residence.

Originally the small old monastery lay in the rock, where it was decided to build the castle. At the beginning of the construction, it had been empty for many years, so there were no obstacles to build the majestic building of the impressive size in the rocks. The last owner of the castle was Queen Amelia, who had to leave her residence in 1910 and fled from Portugal. In many of … Read all

Elevador de Santa Justa

From the series “Top 16 Most Exotic Elevators and Lifts in the World”

One of Lisbon's landmarks is the old Elevator Elevador-de-Santa-Justa, which locals call Elevador do Carmo. This unbelievably beautiful old elevator, opened in 1901, connects one of the streets in the city district of Baixa with Largo do Carmo. The beautiful lift shaft is built in Neo-Gothic style, its height is 45 meters. The elevator cabin is quite large and can accommodate up to 20 people.

The imposing elevator was designed by the famous architect and engineer from the turn of the 19th - 20th century Raul Mesner. In 2002 Elevador do Carmo was recognized as a historical monument of national importance. The old elevator is a valuable architectural monument. The interior of the elevator cabins is as impressive as its neo-Gothic shafts. During the last repairs, the spacious cabins were … Read all

All unique sightseeing Portugal

Cultural sights in regions of Portugal

Lisbon

Another interesting object of architectonic art in Lisbon is Bikush House which construction was ended in 1523. Its façade is executed in a unique style fronted with tracery stone cut as diamonds. In 1755 the construction was severely harmed with the earthquake with two upper stages totally destroyed. Nowadays the Bikush House hosts an exhibition center in which the art students and amateur artists perform their works. Speaking of historical sites, St George Castle is worthy of special … Read more

Aveiro

One of the city’s main historical symbols is the Convento de Jesus Monastery. This incredibly beautiful architectural monument was erected at the end of the 15th century. The monastery features a spectacular interior design. Presently, part of the historic building is converted into a museum. This is a highly revered place for locals, as the tomb of the Princess Saint Joan is located here. The main hall decorated with skillful wood-carved and gilded elements is one of the most beautiful in … Read more

Albufeira

You should also not forget to visit the old building of the Municipality, which is now converted into Archaeological Museum. Among the archaeological finds present at the museum you will find ancient manuscripts, household items and tools that once have belonged to the first settlers of the ancient city. While walking along the city’s streets, you can see numerous notable mansions and beautiful monuments, each of which has its own unique history. The city’s suburban areas are also full of … Read more

Porto

Porto is also home to one of the most beautiful bridges in the country, which connects the city and Vila Nova de Gaia. An openwork arc, which length estimates 172 meters, was designed by the world-renowned engineer Eiffel. There is a special area for pedestrians on the bridge, so don’t forget to visit this place – a walk in this places will become a real pleasure. Fans of walks should not forget to visit the local botanical garden, which is also the oldest one in the country – the garden … Read more

Funchal

Palheiro Park is also one of the unique attractions; there is an extensive collection of exotic plants and flowers brought from different parts of the world on its territory. The Jardins Botanicos da Madeira is the main natural attraction of the city. Its collection consists of more than two thousand different plants, among which are very unique and rare species. Parrots are main inhabitants of the beautiful garden; the collection of birds is also very diverse and admirable. One of the oldest … Read more

Lagos

During the tour, vacationers can admire the ancient religious building, as well as enjoy the panoramic view that can be seen from the hill. An important object is the church of Carmo, which is the surviving part of an old monastery. Today, the biggest part of the building is in ruins, but due to surviving fragments visitors can appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the former structure. The church of St. Mary is considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. It was completed … Read more

Portimao

In spite of the fact that it is considered center of beach tourism and there are not any important historical sights, Carvoeiro is one of the most beautiful and romantic city’s districts. Villas located near the seaside are the real works of architectural art. Near the resort there are some touristic objects too. Lovers of ecological tourism need to include visiting of Estombar cave in their resting program. It is located in picturesque natural region and it is one of the most famous sights … Read more

Vilamoura

Calcadao de Quarteira is another great place for strolling. It is the central street of Quarteira, which is striking with numerous interesting restaurants, bars, hotels - this is where their greatest number is concentrated. In addition, you can easily get to the beach from here. It is worth noting that there are no parks in the city. Instead, there are golf clubs amazing with an abundance of greenery. Dom Pedro Golf Collection is considered the best club that guarantees aesthetic pleasure. … Read more

Nature of Portugal - national parks and reserves for active recreation

Fantastic City Tours and Excursions in Portugal

Famous places and sights of Portugal

Palacio Nacional da Pena

Elevador de Santa Justa

Photogallery of Portugal

Cultural sights in regions of Portugal

Portugal: Map of sightseeing in regions