Portugal’s medieval castles and ancient landscapes offer a perfect setting for adventure and enchantment.
Portugal used to be one of Europe's best kept secrets. Tucked away behind one of the continent's biggest stars, Spain, it was often overlooked by tourists in favour of more well-known destinations. But Portugal's beauty and charm couldn't have remained unnoticed for long.
Dotted with medieval castles and walls, this ancient landscape is the perfect setting for adventure and enchantment. Picture-perfect villages and meandering coastlines spread their way across the country, along with the proud history that is ingrained in the Portuguese culture.
The country's whimsy and charm comes across in its still very much untamed landscapes. Visitors get a sense that there's much more to uncover and often stumble across new discoveries as they explore the countryside. But the harsh, jagged cliffs, dune-covered beaches and sheltered coves have been around for many centuries.
Portugal's main cities including Lisbon and Porto have developed into busy, vibrant centres where modern style meets old-world charm. In the southernmost region of mainland Portugal, an area known as the Algarve has developed into selection of luxurious resorts. But even from here, it's only a short trip out to the countryside where curious travellers can explore.
Vilamoura is the largest luxury tourist complex in the Algarve. This manmade resort and marina contrast with Portugal's traditional landscapes, showing off the beauty of the old and the style of the new. This grand resort fits in with its stunning ocean views and is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience modern Portugal only a stone's throw away from the ancient landscapes. The accommodation on offer varies from three to five-star hotels and opulent holiday homes. But there’s nothing more luxurious than the Vilamoura villas in the resort. These stunning, spacious properties give families and friends plenty of room to relax in private comfort.
For an equally luxurious but much more historical version of Vilamoura, head east along the coast to Albufeira. Considered the gateway to the Algarve, this beautiful seaside town maintains its historical heritage alongside modern development. The 16th Century military battery camouflaged in the side of a cliff, the littering of churches, and the town icon, the clock tower, are just some of the things to see. Villas in Albufeira offer guests the same relaxing and private stay as in Vilamoura, but emits the classic Portuguese character and charm. Albufeira is a town of historical luxury.
If you're searching for the perfect place to escape to in 2013 villa holidays along the stunning south of Portugal provide unrivalled luxury surrounded by old-world enchantment.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
