The Portuguese love pets, with more than 50% of households owning one. If you’re worried you’ll miss your dog too much on your next trip to Portugal, bring them along! From public parks and beaches, your pet will be free to roam around and explore the Portuguese landscapes. After booking your flight to Portugal and making sure your pet is ready to fly, where will you stay? Luckily, Portugal has a variety of pet-friendly hotels. We have selected our favorite hotels in Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, the Alentejo, as well Madeira and the Azores.
Near the Lisbon Zoo Metro Station, Corinthia Lisbon is a 5-star hotel that offers stylish rooms with private bathrooms and free luxurious toiletries. The hotel features the Soul Garden Restaurant, where many go to enjoy meals and drinks outdoors. Corinthia Lisbon also features a large spa with swimming pools, a gym, and hot tubs. On the 24th floor, you can find the Sky Lounge a bar that features a panoramic view of the city.
A 5-minute walk from Chiado and Liberdade Avenue, this 5-star hotel is located in a historical building with retro-style rooms, some with views of Lisbon. The hotel offers luxurious services such as laundry, dry cleaning, and a car rental service. The Rossio Gastrobar has dishes curated by Chef Joao Rodrigues and a buffet breakfast is served on the 7th floor of the building, offering a 360 view of the city.
For a more affordable option, Home Lisbon Hostel features 4 dorm rooms with air conditioning and a shared bathroom. The communal kitchen has a large dining area and equipped kitchen where guests can cook meals, as well as a library and a living area to relax. Home Lisbon Hostel is only 400 meters from the iconic Rossio and 7 km from the airport.
Mercure Porto is a 4-star hotel near Aliados Avenue that has a large outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and a bar. Each room has air-conditioner, a safety deposit box, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel also offers a lovely continental breakfast.
A 5-star hotel, Pestana Porto is less than a 5-minute walk from Aliados Avenue. Each room is decorated elegantly with modern furnishing, featuring a private bathroom and a flat-screen TV. The hotel has a restaurant that serves a buffet breakfast every morning and Portuguese meals.
Close to Clerigos Tower, Rosa Et Al Townhouse offers large suites with views of the garden and city with a vintage feel. The townhouse has a library, an outdoor dining area, and even dry cleaning services. A gourmet restaurant is located on-site, serving meals made from organic products from the property. You can also rent a car or bicycle at the concierge.
Located near Olhao, Vila Monte Farm House is a member of the Design Hotels Group that features a garden and 2 heated outdoor swimming pools. This place is divided into 4 buildings among an organ grove. Each room has a colorful decor and a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box, a coffee machine, and a private bathroom. Farm House’s restaurant offers meals made from fresh produce from local markets, featuring a sharing concept.
Casa da Horta, a gorgeous holiday home, is located in Alcacer do Sal and features an outdoor swimming pool and a terrace area with views of the lake. Each home has 2 bedrooms, a private bathroom, as well as a fully equipped kitchen, a fireplace, and a living room area.
Pestana Churchill Bay is a 4-star hotel with a terrace that provides a panoramic view of the Camara de Lobos. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, air conditioning, and some even have a balcony with views of the city. Pestana has an on-site restaurant that serves regional dishes, as well as vegan options.
Located on the island of Santa Maria, Quinta do Falcao is an 8-hectare farm with townhouses in Almagreira that has everything you need for a luxurious stay. The farm has sea views from the garden which guests can enjoy. Every unit comes with a kitchen equipped with a dishwasher and a private bathroom, as well as a patio.
If you’re worried about flying with your pet, take a look at our detailed guide on traveling with pets. From required documents to whether your dog can travel in the cabin with you, we don’t leave any questions unanswered.
Want to take your best friend with you on your next trip to Portugal? We’re talking about your pet! Whether you’re looking to fully relocate or just spend a weekend in the capital of Lisbon, Portuguese airlines allow you to bring your dog, cat, or ferret with you. Take a look at this detailed guide to find out how to do so. From required documents to whether your dog can travel in the cabin with you, we don’t leave any questions unanswered.
Pet Travel Documents & Requirements for Portugal
First of all, you can only travel to Portugal through commercial flights without quarantining your animal with dogs, cats, and ferrets. Portugal has set up a number of requirements that you need to make sure you follow. You will need a Pet Passport, issued by your vet that will also track vaccinations. If you are not in the EU, including the UK, you cannot get an EU pet passport, instead, you will just get an animal health certificate which is valid for 4 months.
Your pet needs to be vaccinated against rabies, either with the one, two, or three-year vaccine. Rabies vaccines must be administered at the same time or after your pet is microchipped. This is another requirement. The microchip must be ISO-compliant! Pets must also wait at least 21 days after receiving the rabies vaccine before arriving in Portugal. There are no other mandatory vaccinations. You will also need to fill in a health certificate prior to the flight and then one within 10 days of arrival, signed by a veterinarian.
Also, pets that are less than 15 weeks old are not allowed to travel.
Let’s recap! To travel to Portugal you will need:
Cabin or Hold: Where Will My Pet Travel
Knowing that your pet needs to travel in the hold, rather than in the cabin with you, can be stressful. This will depend on the airline, but for the most part, dogs and cats in soft container up to 8 kilograms can be carried in the cabin. If your pet is an assistance dog, they can travel with you in the cabin at any weight. Pets in containers up to 32 or 45 kilograms will travel in the hold. The container or crate must be suitable for transporting animals.
Tips for Traveling with Pets to Portugal
Traveling with a pet can be stressful. There are plenty of things to consider from required documentation to the comfort of your pet. Here are our top tips for traveling with pets to Portugal:
First, talk to your vet to make sure your pet is in good health to travel.
If your pet is a dog or a cat weighs over 32 kilograms, make sure to purchase a suitable crate. Add their favorite toys and blankets to make them feel comfortable. However, do not overdo it by taking up what little room your pet already has in a crate.
Make sure you have all the necessary paperwork and that vaccinations are up to date.
Vets suggest not feeding your pet on the day of travel. We know, this is tough, but stress diarrhea is a common occurrence, as well as motion sickness.
Hydrate your pet! Depending on the airline, you should include a bowl with water to the inside of the crate.
Check whether their are restrictions on your pet’s breed. In Portugal, it can be harder to send these breeds: Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, and Tosa Inu.
Book your pet’s ticket in advance and check out the airline’s website for information on traveling with pets.
Let your pet get used to the crate at home by feeding them inside it for weeks before the flight.
DO NOT give your pet a tranquilizer, this can be dangerous as it can interfere with a pet’s ability to control body heat at high altitudes.
Photo by Charles Deluvio (Unsplash
Is Portugal Pet-Friendly?
Portugal is definitely a pet-friendly country with more than half of Portuguese households owning a pet. The abundance of public parks and beaches are perfect for taking dogs on walks and allowing them to explore nature, without being stuck in an apartment. Some shops and restaurants are even marked as “pet friendly,” allowing you to bring your pet in on a leash. However, most restaurants do not allow pets inside, but due to the warm weather, you can also enjoy a meal alongside your pet on a terrace. There are a number of pet-friendly hotels in Portugal.Pets are not allowed on specific beaches during the summer, but you will always find beaches where this is not the case. In most public transports pets are not allowed, except trains and buses where they must wear a muzzle. Animals are also protected under Portuguese law and in 2014, the mistreatment or abandonment of pets became punishable with fines or even prison.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling with Pets to Portugal
What documents do I need to take my dog to Portugal?
In order to fly with a dog (or a cat or ferret), you will need the following documents:
Pet passport issued by a vet with up-to-date rabies vaccine
Proof of ISO-compliant microchip
Health certificate filled out before flying
Can I take my dog on holiday to Portugal?
Yes. You will need to purchase an extra pet airline ticket and figure out whether your pet will go in the hold or cabin with you. This will depend on the airline, but for the most part, dogs and cats in soft container up to 8 kilograms can be carried in the cabin. If your pet is an assistance dog, they can travel with you in the cabin at any weight. Pets in containers up to 32 or 45 kilograms will travel in the hold. You will also need to gather the following documents: an EU pet passport issued by a vet with up-to-date rabies vaccine, proof of an ISO-compliant microchip, and an animal health certificate filled out before flying. If you are not in the EU, including the UK, you cannot get an EU pet passport, instead, you will just get an animal health certificate which is valid for 4 months.
How much does it cost to take a dog to Portugal?
The cost of taking a pet to Portugal will depend on the airline. For TAP, the Portuguese airline, it can cost anywhere between €70 and €180 for a pet ticket depending on where you’re flying from. For flights from Europe, Morocco, Tunisia and flights between Accra and São Tomé it costs €70. For most intercontinental flights, it will cost €150. The only exception to the latter is if you’re flying from the Dominican Republic where it costs €180.
Don’t forget about other costs, such as the pet crate, the microchip, vaccine, and the EU pet passport. If you are an EU resident, an EU pet passport alone can cost around €150 but lasts the whole lifetime of your pet. Expect to pay at least €300 to €500 for all this, including an EU pet passport. However, prices will depend on your location and veterinarian of choice.
Do I need to microchip my pet to travel to Portugal?
Yes. All pets traveling to Portugal (only dogs, cats, and ferrets allowed) must have a microchip implanted that is linked to an EU pet passport or a health certificate completed by a veterinarian for non-EU citizens. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination is given.
What kind of pets can you take to Portugal?
Only dogs, cats, and ferrets can fly to Portugal through commercial flights. If you want to relocate another animal such as a bird, the rules are much different and these usually involve quarantining your animal. A bird will need:
To have a health certificate by a licensed vet and be in isolation in the original country for 30 days before import OR
The bird must quarantine in Portugal for 30 days after entering the country OR
Within the last 6 months and not before 60 days before the trip, your bird was vaccinated against avian influenza using a H5 vaccine OR
The bird must isolate for 10 days before the trip and take a test for the Avian Influenza H5N1
We know that when you think of the most famous Portuguese people, only one man comes to mind. But there are plenty of famous artists, actors, footballers, and politicians to come out of Portugal, both dead and alive. We’ve decided to stick to alive on this one. Many have Portuguese descent, others were born and bred in Portugal. Some might even come as a surprise. Regardless, the Portuguese have made a mark on the world and accomplished some remarkable feats.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is the most famous person to come out of Portugal, as well as the most followed person on Instragam with 395 million followers. Born in Madeira, Ronaldo for many is the best football player of all time, having won a record of five Ballon d’Or awards. Ronaldo was awarded the world’s most famous athlete by ESPN from 2016 to 2019 and was also ranked the world’s highest-paid athlete by Forbes in 2016 and 2017. However, Cristiano Ronaldo does not come from money. He was born in the Sao Pedro parish of Funchal and is the fourth and youngest child of an impoverished Portuguese family. His mother was a cook and his dad was a gardener who struggled with alcoholism.
Photo by Ludovic Péron (Flickr)
2. Shawn Mendes
This might come as a surprise, but yes, Shawn Mendes is part Portuguese. Although he was born in Ontario, Canada, his father, Manuel Mendes, was born in Lagos, Algarve. His mother, Karen Mendes is from England. He was raised in a religious family, perhaps because of his Portuguese descent. Fun fact, Shawn Mendes’ first ever live show occurred in the Algarve in 2012. His father wanted to bring the family back to their Portuguese roots and took them to the Algarve, one summer. Shawn was at a busy street in Lagos when he decided to sing a Bruno Mars song for the passer byers.
Photo by Walt Disney Television (Flickr)
3. José Mourinho
The current manager of A.S Roma, José Mourinho is known as “the special one” and as one of the best managers of all time. Mourinho has managed clubs like Porto, Chelsea and Real Madrid and has an impressive track record with each team. Mourinho was born in Setubal in 1963 in a middle-class to professional football player José Manuel Mourinho Félix and his wife, primary school teacher Maria Júlia Carrajola dos Santos. He initially set out to study business as his mother wished, but he then chose to drop out and follow his dream of studying sports science.
Photo by Aleksandr Osipov (Flickr)
4. Bernardo Silva
The footballer player for Manchester City and the Portuguese national team, Bernardo Silva was born in Lisbon in 1994. Silva started his career at Benfica’s youth academy and then played for Benfica B in 2013. Since then, he has evolved into one of the best Portuguese footballers. In 2015, Silva made his debut on the Portuguese national team, and in the 2019 Nations League, was named the Player of the Tournament. He was signed to Manchester United in 2017 for over 40 million pounds. In 2019, Silva was listed among 30 footballers for Ballon d’Or shortlist. He played an important role in the EUFA Champions League, where Manchester City reached the final in 2020.
5. Daniela Ruah
Known for playing Kensi in NCIS: Los Angeles, Daniela Ruah is actually Portuguese-American. Ruah was born in Boston, but moved back to Portugal with her family at the age of 5 where she attended St Julian’s School, one of the best international schools in the country. Ruah began acting in Portuguese telenovelas at the age of 16 and later moved to London and New York to study acting. In 2009, the show NCIS: Los Angeles aired, skyrocketing her fame. In January 2018, it was announced that she would co-host the Eurovision Song Contest, bringing her back to her roots. In January 2021, Ruah made her directing debut with the 11th episode of the new season of NCIS: Los Angeles.
Photo by Jyns Magazine (Flickr)
6. António Guterres
Born in 1949 in Lisbon, António Guterres is the current Secretary General of the United Stations and the first Portuguese person to hold the title. He took charge in 2017, as the 9th person to hold the title of Secretary General. Guterres is a member of the Portuguese Socialist Party and served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002. He resigned in 2002 after the Socialist Party was defeated in the 2001 local elections. The party then lost to PSD, a social democratic party that leans centre-right. Nevertheless, Guterres was ranked the best Prime Minister of Portugal of the previous 30 years by the public in 2012 and 2014.
Photo by Faces Of The World (Flickr)
7. Paula Rego
The iconic Portuguese visual artist Paulo Rego was born in Lisbon in 1935. She is probably the most famous Portuguese artist of all time and her paintings are worth millions. Rego studied art at the University College London and was a member of the London Group, along with artists such as David Hockney. She was the first artist-in-resident at the London National Gallery and today has been featured at the Tate and the Louvre. Her art has always represented her political beliefs and feminism, particularly her anger toward the anti-abortion movement. She uses pastels, rather than oils to produce her art and also reflect on Portuguese folk themes.
8. Nelly Furtado
Born in Canada in 1978, Nelly Furtado is known for her two top 10 singles that made the Billboard Hot 100, “I’m Like a Bird” and “Turn Off the Light”. Furtado’s parents, António José Furtado and Maria Manuela Furtado, were actually born on São Miguel Island in the Azores. They immigrated to Canada in the late 1960s, as many other Azoreans did. Despite her songs being in English, she began singing in Portuguese at the age of 4. Her first actual public performance was in church with her mother on Portugal Day.
Photo by Lunchbox LP (Flickr)
9. Mariza
Mariza is one of the most famous fadistas in Portugal and the world, having sold over 1 million records. She was born in Portuguese Mozambique in 1973, to a Portuguese father and Mozambican mother. She moved to Alfama, Lisbon an iconic fado neighborhood when she was 3 years old. At first, she sang in various styles such as jazz and soul. However, her dad encouraged her to sing fado, the traditional Portuguese music so that the Portuguese community would accept that she was half-Mozambiquan.
Photo by Eric van Nieuwland (Flickr)
10. Salvador Sobral
Salvador Sobral is best known for winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2017 for Portugal with the song “Amar pelos Dois”. Portugal had not won the Eurovision since 1964, a record time of 53 years for a European country. Salvador Sobral was born in 1989 in Lisbon to a formerly noble family and he is related to the politician Hermano Jose Braamcamp de Almeida Castelo Branco. Sobral’s first TV debut was in the programme Bravo Bravissimo when he was 10. However, his success started at the age of 20 when he was one of the ten finalists of Idols, the Portuguese version of American Idol. Sobral studied psychology in Lisbon, but he later abandoned the degree to pursue one in music. Today, he is one of the most famous musicians in Portugal. He has also used his platform to advocate for refugee rights in Europe.
On the northeast corner of Portugal, right on the border with Spain stands a little town that bears a great significance.
With just a population of 6,466 people, the so-called “Museum City” is a fortified town that sits overlooking the Douro River, the perfect combination between nature, culture, and history.
Miranda do Douro is home to one of the 3 official languages of Portugal, Mirandese, unique to the town and the surrounding regions, it is known for its special dances and music, as well as its amazing food, which will leave you begging for more!
From all of these curiosities to the wonderful monuments and villages you will see around the town and surrounding it, you will love your trip to the deep interior of Portugal!
Getting to Miranda do Douro
This interior city, unfortunately, doesn’t have a train station, so the best way to get there is either by renting a car or by bus.
The cheapest way to get to Miranda do Douro is probably by bus. You can get tickets from Rede Expressos or Rodonorte, for around 16€.
However, I would advise you to go by car. You would take around 3 hours from Porto or Braga or, if you are on the Spanish side, you can get there in just one around 1 hour from Zamora or Salamanca.
The long trip by car would be worth it since many things in the surroundings are only accessible by car. This region has lots of villages and towns spread out through the territory and sometimes there aren’t public transportations available. With a car, you would have much more freedom to visit whatever you want.
The town is great to visit throughout the whole year, as you will get different perspectives of it. During summer, you will get dry and hot days and cool nights, while in the winter you will get a lot of rain, really cold weather and very frequently snow.
Miranda is mostly visited by lots of tourists (overwhelmingly Spanish) on the weekends, but this shouldn’t be an impediment! You will still be able to have a great time and explore the amazing region.
Where to eat
Miranda do Douro is a land of food. You have so many dishes to choose from!
To start off, why not a ‘Sopa Transmontana’, a soup typical from the region of Trás-os-Montes made with chestnuts? It will get you ready for the upcoming meal.
The famous “Posta Mirandesa”, a typical steak from the city, will leave any meat lover in awe! If you prefer other types of meat, you have lamb, pork and other meats, all in a typical Mirandese cooking way. You can also try the ‘tabafeia’, a kind of smoked sausage made out of pork and bird meat, regional wheat bread, olive oil, all with salt, garlic, paprika or pepper and parsley. It is guaranteed that you will like it!
If you are more of a fish person, this wouldn’t be Portugal if it didn’t have a specific codfish dish! ‘Bacalhau à Mirandesa’, a new gastronomic dish, can be found all over the city’s restaurants.
As for sweets, you will have so many that the hard thing will be to pick one! There are roscos, sodos, dormidos, bola doce (sweet ball), and many more!
And to push all of this food down, what better than a glass of wine made directly in the region on the Douro riverbanks?
You will see that the prices are quite reasonable, with a good meal staying for around 10€, and if you didn’t really like any of these options, that’s also ok! You can find food from all over Portugal in the region, as well as international food, such as pizzas or hamburgers.
Culture in Miranda do Douro
Standing right on the border with Spain, you would think that the city’s identity would be divided between the two countries. However, the opposite happened and it has a great unique and individual cultural identity!
Miranda do Douro is one of the more culturally rich places you will find in the country! We have seen its unique dishes and great wine, but Miranda doesn’t stop there!
For starters, the region has its own language! Mirandese (or Mirandés, in the language), together with Portuguese and Portuguese Sign Language, make the 3 official languages of Portugal. Mirandese is a local variant of the Asturo-leonese Language, that used to be spoken in the Kingdom of Leon and that is still spoken in those areas of Spain. That little corner of Portugal also used to speak that language, but after a year of living side by side with the Portuguese language, it got its own particularities and turned into its own language.
Mirandese is spoken today by around 15,000 people, basically all of them being at least bilingual with Portuguese, with it being taught at schools and there being a big attempt to revitalize it, as it was starting to die out. However, in some villages, such as the village of Picote (or Picuote, in Mirandese), it is virtually spoken by everyone, with Picote even being the first village to have signs in both Portuguese and Mirandese!
The culturally rich region doesn’t stop with this and it has its own special type of music, with bagpipes and traditional drums, as well as dance, with the “Pauliteiros”, or stick dancers, dancing to the tune of the bagpipes!
Further than that, the Mirandese people have their own traditional clothes, like the “Capas de Honra Mirandesa” (Mirandese Honor Capes), made out of pure sheep wool and they are all handmade and require great detail. They have their origin in the region of León (the same where the Mirandese language comes from), dating back to the 9th or 10th century. Today it is only used in certain ceremonies or important acts.
You also have lots of festivals, such as “Festas de Santa Bárbara” (Saint Barbara Festival), which takes place on the penultimate Sunday of August; the “Festival Intercéltico de Sendim” (Sendim Interceltic Festival), a festival that connects Celtic heritages from all over the world, with dancers from Argentina, to Ireland, Galicia or Miranda themselves; and the “Festival L Burro i L Gueiteiro” (Festival of the Donkey and the Bagpiper), that intends to revitalize the relationship between the two characters, which was traditional in Mirandese culture.
What to do in Miranda do Douro?
Antiga Sé de Miranda do Douro (Old Cathedral of Miranda do Douro)
The Old Cathedral of the city was finished at the end of the 16th century, being the biggest religious temple in the whole of Trás-os-Montes and being considered a National Monument. Its greatness will leave you breathless!
One of the most interesting artifacts it has it’s the “Menino Jesus da Cartolinha” (Boy Jesus of the Top Hat), which is a carved statue of a boy who supposedly appeared in the city during the 1711 Spanish siege to the city to rally the Portuguese troops. It was said that he was Jesus and that he wore a top hat, being immortalized in the Church and on display in a glass case.
Historic Center
The best thing you can do to know more about the culture and the life In this amazing place is really to stroll around the Historic Center of the town, hang out with the local people and you will understand much better the history and mentality of the region!
You can go to the Praça D. João III, known for its statue that represents a typical Mirandese couple, and the Solar, an amazing baroque building. The La Costanielha street is the oldest and most traditional in the town and deserves a visit! Then, don’t forget to climb to the castle walls, thought to be from before the Roman times! And finally, eat at a traditional place and have a little snack with the unique pastries.
This is the best way to immerse yourself in the culture you have read about here!
Museu Regional da Terra de Miranda (Regional Museum of the Land of Miranda)
The museum, situated in the aforementioned D. João III Square, is in the old town hall building. It has folk arts from the region of the Land of Miranda (the Mirandese-speaking region) as well as its history and traditions. This is the place you have to go if you want to know more about this unique culture land!
The Castle of Miranda do Douro
The Castle was probably built in some way or another by the peoples who have passed through the region, such as the Suevi or the Moors, but it was Afonso I, the first king of Portugal who rebuilt it to defend the northeastern border of his new kingdom.
However, today only ruins are left, due to a battle in 1762, during the Seven Years War. But they are incredible to visit, as you can still see the tower and the walls.
Ermitério Os Santos
This is a ruined chapel with a panel near the villages of Picote and Sendim. The panel is in a big monolith, where Saint Paul is drawn with many other saints, and it’s dated as of 1553.
The construction of this chapel and many others like it was associated with living a hermitic life, being, therefore, called a “hermitage”.
Go on a Douro Cruise
International Douro River. Photo by Vitor Oliveira on Flickr.
You can travel the International Douro, literally on the border with Spain, and see the amazing views that nature produced there. The cliffs and olive trees all around will take your breath away. Definitely an afternoon well spent!
You can see a part of the Aqueduct of Vilarinho behind the Old Cathedral, the aqueduct that supplied water to the city from the 16th until the 20th century.
Besides this, don’t forget to visit the nearby villages and places! You have Picote, which we mentioned before, that is a beautiful stone village that you are guaranteed to fall in love with and that has an incredible view of the Douro River. You also have Sendim, home to its own variety of Mirandese and to the famous dish of “Posta Mirandesa”, and a place where you can explore the nature in the “Arribas do Douro” Natural Park.
There are so many places to explore in this region! Try to don’t miss out on anything! And don’t forget to talk to the locals to see the best places and to get the best food!
The Land of Miranda is a very beautiful place where you can encounter almost anything you’re looking for in your trip: history, nature, lovely people, culture, peacefulness. The only thing it’s probably lacking is the sea, but the Douro River will definitely do nicely!
In its capital of Miranda do Douro you will find a great base to discover the rest of the region and to get yourself immersed in that amazing culture. Get the most out of this unique place that most people (outside of the Iberian Peninsula) don’t know about!
I hope you have a great time discovering this little diamond in the far interior of Portugal!
⬇️What are your favorite things to do in Miranda do Douro? Let us know in the comments below⬇️
On Sunday, January 30 2022, Portugal held an early general election to elect 230 members to the Assembly of the Republic. The Socialist Party won a majority with 117 seats in the assembly, winning 9 more seats than in the last election. This means that Antonio Costa, the leader of the Socialist Party will remain as Prime Minister. Around 48% of those eligible to vote went to the polls on Sunday, as well as a week before, a large improvement in comparison to recent years. Those in isolation or infected with COVID-19 were also allowed to vote from 6 to 7 PM on Sunday.
Why was an early election called in Portugal?
On October 27 2021, the state budget for 2022 proposed by the Socialist minority government was rejected in the assembly, as all other parties voted against it, even left-wing ones such as the Left Block (BE) and the Communist Party (PCP). The left felt like the state budget plan was too moderate and did not go far enough to tackle inequality and protect workers’ rights. In contrast, right-wing parties such as the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the Liberal Initiative (IL) felt like the plan would not alleviate the tax burden on individuals and corporations and that there should not be an increase in investment in public services. In turn, in November of 2021, the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa announced snap elections set for January due to the collapse in the governing center-left/left alliance.
2022 Portuguese General Election Results
The center-left Socialist Party (PS) won 117 seats, one seat above the necessary to win a majority.
The center-right Social Democratic Party (PSD), led by Rui Rio loses 1 seat. In the polls, PSD and PS were incredibly close so this is a surprise.
The far-right Enough (Chega) becomes the third-largest political party in Portugal. In 2019, only the leader, Andre Ventura was elected into the assembly. This has now increased to 12.
The Liberal Initiative (IL) a center-right liberal party increases its seats from 1 in 2019 to 8 and becomes the fourth-largest party in Portugal.
The Left Bloco (BE) suffers a major loss. From 19 seats in 2019 to 5. Arguably, leftist voters are punished BE for voting against the state budget.
Similarly, the Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU), a coalition between the Portuguese Communist Party (PC) and The Greens, lost half of their seats, from 12 in 2019 to 6.
CDS-PP, a center-right party with a conservative ideology loses all of its 5 seats. The party’s president Francisco Rodrigues dos Santos aka “Chicão”, quits.
PAN, a center-left ecological party loses 3 seats.
FREE (Livre) elects its left-wing leader Rui Tavares to the assembly, the main goal of the party’s campaign.
What does the Socialist Party forming a majority government mean for Portugal?
Since the Socialist Party (PS) won a majority, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa will soon ask Prime Minister Antonio Costa to form a majority government. PS will not need to form a coalition with other parties in parliament to do so. If PS had not won a majority, it would be close to impossible to pass their proposed state budget since all other parties were against it. Now, with a majority, the same state budget that was once rejected is likely to pass in the Spring.
However, Prime Minister Antonio Costa has stated that despite this victory, “An absolute majority doesn’t mean absolute power. It doesn’t mean to govern alone. It’s an increased responsibility and it means to govern with and for all Portuguese”.
The state budget or Orçamento do Estado in Portuguese that was proposed by the Socialist minority government and rejected is essentially the government’s budget for the year. PS states that their state budget is directed at uplifting the middle-class and young people. They want to invest further in public services such as the National Healthcare Service (SNS) and education, as well as increase the minimum salary, combat climate change, and tackle inequality. The state budget is hundreds of pages long but here are some highlights.
Young People
IRS Jovem (Income Tax for Young People), tax relief for young people starting their careers for 5 years, will now include freelance/self-employment. Those between 18 and 26 (or 28 if they have a doctorate) with at least a Bachelor’s will not have to pay either 30%, 20%, or 10% of their income tax for the first 5 years.
Programa Regressar (Program Return), for the next 4 years at least, this program allows those who have emigrated, particularly young people who are qualified to come back to Portugal until 2023 to get a tax relief of 50% on their IRS for 5 years.
Program to help young people find affordable housing.
Families
To fight child poverty, a financial program for kids. Until 2023:
For every child until 17 years of age, parents will receive €600 a year or €50 a month, be it through tax deduction or allowance.
In the case of families in extreme poverty, for every child until 17 years of age, parents will receive €1,200+ a year or €100 a month.
Free nurseries for kids in families that correspond to the first and second tax brackets in regard to household income (until around €10,700).
Allowances for informal careers all over the country.
Workers
The minimum salary should rise at the average that it has been increasing in the last few years, reaching €750 in 2023 (€702 in 2022).
The unemployment allowance should be a minimum of €500 for full-time workers.
Companies
There will not be an increase in tax for companies.
A fund of over 1 million euros will help those affected by the pandemic and a fund of over 100 million euros to support innovative companies.
Why did the Socialist Party win a majority?
The Socialist Party’s landslide victory came as a surprise to many and theories by commentators on why such a result occurred are circulating the media. The consensus is that voters on the left made use of the voto util (strategic vote) to make sure that a right-wing majority would not happen. The polls prior to the election showed a tight race between the center-right Social Democratic Party and the Socialist Party, as well as an increase in the popularity of Enough (Chega). Although many right-wing parties had stated they would not form a coalition with the far-right party Enough (Chega), others did not give a concrete answer. The left has been increasingly worried about the rise of such a party that goes against anti-fascist and democratic values.
Others on the left have chosen to vote for the Socialist Party to punish the Left Bloc (BE) and the Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU) for voting against the state budget. These left-wing parties felt that the state budget did not tackle class inequality effectively and that the proposal was too moderate. Although many voters on the left would agree, many argue they are the responsible ones for the political crisis that led to the general election. The Socialist Party had also reminded the left that the state budget was the most left-wing one ever proposed in the history of Portuguese democracy.
However, it is also true that this election had one of the lowest abstention rates in the last few years. Many on the left went out to vote not only out of fear of a stronger right-wing movement but to show their approval of the Socialist Party. The Socialist Party has arguably successfully handled the Covid-19 pandemic which could have added to its success in this general election. For many, a vote for the Socialist Party signifies a vote for stability.
Photo by Element5 Digital (Unsplash)
Impact of Portuguese Election Results for Expats and Internationals
Although not hugely, a PS majority government could impact expats and internationals. Many on the left in Portugal (mostly BE and CDU) have been widely critical of the Portugal Golden Visa and the non-habitual tax regime for foreigners, arguing these provide tax relief to those that are already economically advantaged. The Golden Visa, for example, has also led to an increase in the property market at values much higher than the reality, making it almost impossible for the average Portuguese person to buy a house. We do not know for sure if PS winning a majority will mean a stronger stance against this.
What we know is that the changes to the Portugal Golden Visa have already been established, primarily motivated by the Socialist Party, as well as the Left Block. Since January 2021, those looking to be eligible for a Portugal Golden Visa can no longer purchase property in Lisbon and Porto, only some parts of the interior of the country. Although the state budget for 2022 does not mention the Golden Visa, it is still possible that more restrictions or a total ban could occur. However, this is unlikely to happen in the next year(s). The Left Bloc, for example, are seeking a complete ban of the Portugal Golden Visa as they felt the tax relief and easy path to citizenship was unjust and classist, as well as a ban on NHR status. The party has lost 14 seats in the assembly, leaving them with only 5 so they are unlikely to have much say on the matter now.
Despite this, the program of the Socialist Party has a few other points that could impact those coming from abroad. The party believes that immigration is necessary to sustain the development of both the Portuguese economy and the positive change in demographics. The party states they want to continue with progressive immigration policies that reflect their values of tolerance and openness. One specific policy is to reform SEF, the Portuguese Foreigners and Borders Service so that it does not act as a law enforcement institution, but rather one of an administrative function.
The party also wants to create a digital platform for immigrants to reduce the bureaucracy that Portuguese administrative functions are known for. This platform would make applying for a visa and uploading documents easier. PS also wants to simplify the types of visas out there and the complicated processes for each one, so that the overall immigration process runs more smoothly.
Moreover, the Socialist Party wants to attract international workers and talent. The party wants to start a program called StartUP Visa where foreign workers who want to develop an innovative project in Portugal can do so while living in the country.
The 8 Parties in the Portuguese Assembly of the Republic
1. Socialist Party (PS)
Social democracy, center-left – 117 seats
The Socialist Party was formed in 1973, a year before the Carnation Revolution. PS has won a majority of seats in the Assembly of the Republic on January 30, 2022. The party is a center-left party with social democracy, pro-European and progressive ideologies. PS wants to strengthen the national health service and tackle class inequality. The current Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres was once the leader of the Socialist Party in Portugal.
2. Social Democratic Party (PSD)
Liberal conservatism, center-right – 76 seats
The Social Democratic Party was founded in 1974 and is a center-right party with both conservative and liberal economic ideologies. It is the second-largest party after PS. The party is led by Rui Rio and they campaign to reduce taxes.
3. ENOUGH (CHEGA)
Right-wing populism & national conservatism, Far-right – 12 seats
A far-right and nationalist party, ENOUGH was founded in 2019 by the leader Andre Ventura. This party believes that people living off social benefits are “leeches” of the state who do not want to work. They campaign for life imprisonment (which is not legal in Portugal), as well as chemical castration for child abusers. The party has been accused of racism, misogyny, and homophobia.
4. Liberal Initiative (IL)
Classical liberalism, center-right to right-wing – 8 seats
The Liberal Initiative was founded in 2017 and is the first liberal party in Portugal. Led by João Cotrim Figueiredo, the party focuses on the individual rather than the collective. IL campaigns for right-wing economics such as reducing taxes and promoting a flat income tax for all, as well as less “dependence” on social welfare. The party is unlike other right-wing parties as they are in favor of euthanasia, abortion, and gay rights.
5. Left Bloc (BE)
Democratic socialism, left-wing to far-left – 5 seats
Led by Catarina Martins, the Left Bloc is a feminist, ecosocialist, and anti-racist party that from 2019 until 2022 functioned as an opposition force. BE wants to allow immigrants and residents in Portugal to vote in parliamentary elections, reduce transport prices, as well as fight job insecurity and raise the minimum wage.
6. Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU)
Marxism-Leninism & Eco-socialism, left-wing to far-left – 6 seats
Led by Jeronimo de Sousa, CDU is a coalition made between The Greens, an ecosocialist party and the Portuguese Communist Party. These two parties always run in elections together. They follow a Marxist-Leninist, communist, and anti-fascist ideology. CDU campaigned to invest in the national health service by increasing the number of medical professionals. They also want to reduce the working week from 40 to 35 days and want free education and public transport for all.
PAN was founded in 2009 and became known for fighting for animal rights, as well as environmental justice. The party holds ecofeminist, animalist, and progressive ideologies. PAN campaigned to invest in the national health service but does believe that the private and public sectors can work together. PAN also believes in free transportation to combat climate change.
8. FREE (LIVRE)
Eco-socialism & pro-Europeanism, center-left to left-wing – 1 seat
FREE, also known as Livre, was founded in 2014 by Rui Tavares. FREE’s ideology is ecosocialist, pro-European, feminist, anti-racist, and progressive. The party became known for supporting a trial of the Universal Basic Income, where every citizen would receive a sum of money to eradicate poverty. The party’s program also included increasing the minimum wage to €1,000, legalizing cannabis, investing in public health, and starting a Portuguese Green New Deal.
Take a look at our article on the Portuguese Political System to find out about the democratic process in Portugal.
Looking to find nude beaches in Portugal? You’ll find more than just beaches. From guesthouses, holiday experiences, and a full-blown community, Portugal’s naturism movement has been growing for the past decades. So what is naturism, exactly? It’s not just about getting naked. We all tend to do that from time to time. Naturism, sometimes referred to as nudism, is a way of life that involves non-sexual social nudity. A cultural movement, naturism defends the idea of clothes-free living and living in harmony with nature. Although a single naturist ideology does not exist and people have diverse backgrounds, most advocate for the environment and seek to demystify human nudity. Naturists believe that enjoying nature without clothing is a healthy lifestyle that helps us be in tune with mother earth.
History of Naturism in Portugal
Portugal has a long history of naturism, starting in 1920 with the Portuguese Naturist Society. At this time, nudity was common on beaches in Costa da Caparica. However, by the beginning of the dictatorship, nudity was banned and the naturist movement decline. It moved underground and was only limited to alternative spaces. However, after April 25th and the end of the Estado Novo, the naturist movement reemerged. The FPN then emerged in 1977, the Portuguese Naturist Federation. They struggled to be taken seriously in Portugal at the time. Still, by 1988, after a decade of campaigning, the first Naturist Law was approved in the Portuguese Parliament, essentially recognizing naturism as a practice. Over the past four decades, the FPN has been able to alter laws and recognized 19 beaches as official naturist spots. Naturist tourist accommodations have also been created including Terra Nua and Quinta do Maral.
Naturism Ethics & Rules in Portugal
The Portuguese Naturist Federation has a set of ethics that members commit to complying with when going to naturist spaces such as beaches. The FPN states that naturists should adopt the following:
Use a towel when sitting down for hygiene
Motivate others to join the movement through respect and kindness
Respect the spaces and privacy of others
Be kind when others are trying to learn more about naturism
The FPN states that naturists should NOT do the following:
Discriminate against others
Cause damage to the public image of naturism
Pollute or litter beaches or other spaces
Sexual behavior
Verbal or physical violence
Intoxication
Play loud music that bothers others
Urinate in public
Photograph other naturists
Naturist Beaches: The 9 Official Nude Beaches in Portugal
1. Praia da Bela Vista, Almada
Praia da Bela Vista is located between the Costa da Caparica and Fonte da Telha, in the municipality of Almada. This was the first naturist beach to be made official by the Portuguese authorities in February of 1995. This beach is popular with the LGBT+ community.
2. Praia d’Adiça, Almada
Also located in Almada, Praia d’Adiça became famous for being close to a NATO military base. This beach is great for a short walk as it only extends 1.5 kilometers, but is quite wide. The beach is surrounded by vegetation and is close to Fonte da Telha.
3. Praia do Meco, Sesimbra
Located in Praia do Meco in Sesimbra this beach is next to a large cliff and one of the most iconic beaches in Portugal. It’s probably the most famous naturist beaches in the country. This beach was originally called Praia do Moinho de Baixo. The beach is also close to fish restaurants and the Setubal district, a great place for an afternoon visit.
4. Praia do Salto, Sines
Praia do Salto is located in Porto Covo Alentejo, between two large cliffs, giving visitors privacy and shelter from the window. This beach also has a freshwater stream that starts at the entrance of the beach.
5. Praia dos Alteirinhos, Odemira
Praia dos Alteirinhos is located on the Alentejo coast. A small rocky beach, this beach is quite private and offers a quaint relaxing environment. The beach has a waterfall that falls along the rocks and the large rocks protect visitors from the strong winds. However, you do need to walk through a rough path to get here, which is quite a climb on the way back.
6. Praia das Adegas, Odeceixe
Located in Odeceixe, Praia das Adegas is the northernmost nude beach in the Algarve. This beach is next to Praia do Odeceixe, a beach that Portuguese families frequent. Praia das Adegas is a peaceful beach with large cliffs that is much smaller than the main beach, providing a secluded environment.
7. Praia da Barreta, Tavira
Praia da Barreta is located on what is known as Ilha Deserta (Deserted Island), in Tavira Algarve. This beach provides a unique experience as to get to it, you must take a short ferry ride. The nude beach is roughly a 30-minute walk from the ferry. This beach is 10km long and has crystal clear waters. Praia da Barreta is located on Ilha da Barreta.
8. Praia do Homem Nu, Tavira
Praia do Homem Nu literally translates to “the beach of the naked man”. Also located in Tavira Algarve, this beach has been popular with naturists for over 20 years. This beach is popular with the LGBT+ community, particularly gay men, who travel from other countries to visit. The walk is usually long to this beach, but recently a beach train had been installed to take you there for free.
9. Praia do Malhão, Vila Nova de Milfontes
Praia do Malhão is the most recently recognized nude beach in Portugal, as of 2019. Located in the gorgeous Sudoeste Alentejano National park, this white sandy beach is long and has breathtaking sand dunes. This beach is easily accessible by foot with a short path.
Naturist Holidays in Portugal: Best Naturist Guesthouses in Portugal
The best places for naturist holidays in Portugal are Algarve and Alentejo, as most nude beaches are located here, as well as accommodations. Now that you know which beaches to explore, let’s take a look at the 5 best naturist guesthouses and accommodation options in Portugal.
VILAPURA is located in the Algarve, close to some of the best nude beaches in Portugal. The property is well-reviewed and features an on-site bar, a pool, a jacuzzi, as well as free use of bicycles. Each room has an air-conditioner and a flat-screen TV.
Villa Paraiso is an adults-only property with 5 rooms that is open to naturism. Located in Porches, close to Armação de Pera, this place is a drive away from many naturist beaches in the Algarve. This place has a pool, jacuzzi, and offers a breakfast buffet. Each room has a private bathroom, fridge, and a flat-screen TV.
Cabanas de Sol is located in the Algarve and has an outdoor pool, a sauna, a hot tub, and a garden. In a gorgeous wooden chalet, this property offers a naturist getaway with stylish rooms with poolside views. A continental breakfast is included.
Lua Nova is an experience created by gay men for gay men. They have two locations, one in the Algarve and one in Alentejo, the two top places for naturism in Portugal. The properties are surrounded by nature and allow nudity in the pool area. All rooms are ensuite and have a private balcony.
This place is a naturist campsite in Alentejo with space for both tents and caravans, as well as wooden lodges to rent. The campsite has a pool, sauna, and restaurant for visitors to enjoy. You’ll be close to naturist beaches and be able to bond with a strong naturist community here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Naturism in Portugal
Is being naked in public illegal in Portugal?
Not really. Public nudity is not officially illegal, but it can be an offense if someone feels morally offended and files a compliment. Although this is unlikely, it’s best to keep nudism to certain spaces designated for naturism.
Can I be naked on the beach in Portugal?
You can be completely naked on official nude beaches in Portugal of which there are 9. You will also find beaches where people sunbathe nude that are not officially recognized as naturist beaches by the Portuguese authorities.
Can you be topless at the beach in Portugal?
Topless sunbathing is legal in Portugal. In fact, it’s pretty common. You will see women of all ages topless tanning on beaches (even non-nude and naturist ones). This is socially and culturally acceptable. People will not stare at women topless tanning either. If you are a tourist visiting, make sure to be respectful.
Are there nude beaches in Portugal?
There are 9 nude official beaches in Portugal. These are all recognized by the Portuguese authorities:
Praia da Bela Vista, Almada
Praia d’Adiça, Almada
Praia do Meco, Sesimbra
Praia do Salto, Sines
Praia dos Alteirinhos, Odemira
Praia das Adegas, Odeceixe
Praia da Barreta, Tavira
Praia do Homem Nu, Tavira
Praia do Malhão, Vila Nova de Milfontes
Are there gay nude beaches in Portugal?
Not officially, but yes. There are a few nudist beaches in Portugal that are particularly popular with the whole of the LGBT+ community, such as Praia do Meco (Sesimbra) and Praia da Bela Vista (between Costa da Caparica and Fonte da Telha).
What are the best nude beaches in Portugal?
All of the official nude beaches in Portugal provide gorgeous views and a peaceful atmosphere. But the 3 best nude beaches in Portugal are:
Imagine yourself time traveling July 4, 1776, to Independence Hall, in Pennsylvania. The Second Continental Congress ends with the signing of the United States’ Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson takes out a bottle and proposes a toast to this new nation, and the other Founding Fathers agree!
You get your glass and they fill it with this amber-colored liquor and you toast with them “To America!” You take a sip and that taste fills your mouth… It’s a strong drink, slightly sweet, with a hint of burnt caramel and the texture is so smooth!
Well, that was Madeira wine, and by the description it seems like a Medium-Sweet one. It was indeed used by the Founding Fathers to toast after the signing of the Declaration (although I admit we don’t know if it was indeed a Medium-Sweet) and it has been present in important moments throughout history.
Drinking a glass of Madeira wine is, as Winston Churchill once said, “drinking liquid history.”
What is Madeira Wine?
The Madeira wine is a fortified wine made on the Portuguese Madeira Island, right off the coast of Africa. Mainly produced in the Câmara de Lobos, its grapes have to be planted on the Madeira Island since this corresponds to the area of the Demarcated Region of the Madeira Island and the wine is a DOC (‘Denominação de Origem Controlada’ or ‘Controlled Origin Denomination’).
Madeira is a robust and long-lasting wine with a high alcohol content, since it’s made with a distilled grape spirit, being around 17-20% alcohol content. It’s made in different styles, from dry, used as an aperitif, to sweet, used as a digestif, depending on the amount of sugar it has (anywhere from 0-150 g/liter).
You can also find versions of this wine made for cooking, with added salt and pepper, but not fit to use as a drink. It’s used in the French classic ‘Madeira sauce’, used in dishes like roast beef or filet mignon, or in The Cheesecake Factory on its ‘Chicken Madeira’ dish.
Madeira is also said to have some health benefits, if you obviously use it in moderation and take care of its fattening characteristics (due to excess sugar, although this is less problematic with dryer wines).
It’s a similar wine to Port wine, produced on the Douro region, but the difference is in its unique storage and aging process, and it has its own type of glassware that helps savor the wine better.
This is the main product of the Madeira Autonomous Region and a symbol of the archipelago all around the world. Around 4 million Liters of Madeira wine are exported every year. In 1999, this represented around 43% of all the archipelago’s exports.
Other wines are made to mimic the Madeira wine, like in Crimea, California and Texas, and some even use the name “Madeira” or “Madera”. However, according to EU regulations, the use of these terms is only permitted to the wines coming from the Madeira Islands.
Honestly, as the Madeiran producers say, the other wines can never mimic theirs since the secret is in the excellent quality grapes; the barrels in which they’re aged in, made out of local wood; and the taste of the Madeiran sea.
History of Madeira Wine
When the island was colonized, in 1419, the first grapes immediately started to be planted. These came from Crete, in Greece, on the order of Infante D. Henrique. Then, more grape types came and started to be planted en masse.
It was on the 16th century that the wine industry started to become well-established on the island. At the time, the island was one of the main stops on the voyage from Europe to the New World or India, and vice-versa. This meant a lot of visitors and a lot of trade.
However, at the time, the wine made on Madeira Island was unfortified and only consumed by the locals and the visiting sailors. It couldn’t be transported and sold since it would quickly go bad after the trip.
This changed when stories of the English merchants discovering Port wine came to the island. Fortifying the wine with a spirit meant that it could be transported and sold to outside of Madeira without spoiling! When this became the common practice, the stopping ships would purchase the wine for both their crew and to trade it on their destinations.
The English loved this new wine and, being one of the biggest visitors and having the benefit of low taxes with Portugal due to the 1703 Methuen Treaty, started to buy it and made it famous wherever their ships went. The Dutch East India Company was also a huge buyer, ordering 470 liters of Madeira for their Indian trips.
This way, the wine became known all over Europe and America, becoming the preferred wine to have in banquets, at the tables of the European kings and the American leaders, as we’ve seen.
The wine is mentioned in many English books, showing the importance it had to English culture. For example, in Shakespeare’s ‘Henry IV’, Falstaff is accused of trading his soul for a chicken leg and a glass of Madeira wine. Another story (this one not in a book), is of the death sentence of George of York, Duke of Clarence and brother of King Edward IV. When asked to choose his execution method, he said he wished to be drowned in a barrel of Malvasia Madeira wine.
After the 18th century, the wine started to become Madeira’s main export, since the production of sugar was mainly transferred to Brazil. At this time, ships would go to the island specifically to buy the wine, giving the island a huge economic boost.
It was also around this time that the producers started to notice something: whenever the ships would return with extra shipments of wine that didn’t get sold, the wine would get better! They understood that this was due to the hot cargo holds during the long sea trips to warmer climates, once this didn’t happen to the ships that came back from colder climates. All of these conditions contributed to better the ageing process. The producers then started to make “vinho da roda” (or “wheel wine”), since it was specifically made to go around the world (like a wheel) on voyages and get better on the warm climates.
However, soon they understood that the costs of shipping the wine out and back was too much compared to the profit, so they began to heat the wine to mimic this process on the island, through the “estufagem” or “canteiro” methods.
The wine trade then went through several periods of crisis. First, in the 19th century, vine diseases hit the island and destroyed the vineyards. This was solved by using hybrid vines from America, which would then create another problem.
Then, there was the construction of the Suez Canal, which made the passage through Madeira avoidable in the trip from Europe to Asia, making the island lose a lot of their trade with India.
The First World War also brought hardships to the wine trade, since Madeira was vulnerable to German attacks, and then the Prohibition, in the USA, was announced, which damaged the business as well. After this was repealed, coal ships became the norm and made the stop in Madeira unnecessary since they could travel directly from Europe to America. During this time, Madeira became known as the “Forgotten Island”.
Finally, there was a problem with lack of quality, with the introduction of the greenhouse and the hybrids, and the wine became best known as cooking wine. Most of the vineyards started to close and its fields became tourist attractions or used to plant other things.
In 1989, thanks to Bartholomew Broadbent, the wine saw its rebirth, with new investments on the wine and a renewed American interest on Madeira wine. The winegrowers started to focus on improving the wines quality. They banned the hybrid and American grapes and replacing them by the better, old grape types and focused on implementing modern wine cultivation methods.
Nowadays, it has regained its credibility and prestige in the international markets.
How is Madeira Wine Made?
Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash
Madeira is, as we’ve mentioned, a fortified wine. This is done with a neutral grape spirit, which halts fermentation and leaves residual sugar. The quantity of sugar will depend on the style of Madeira you are drinking.
This is similar to the Port wine production. One of the differences, at least in the beginning, was that Madeira was fortified with a very traditional Madeiran product: sugar cane spirit. Nowadays, this is no longer the case, however. Also, Madeira has to be stored and aged in warm places, while Port is in cool temperatures. This gives it a much stronger taste.
There is also a specific element to Madeira wine, which is strange for any other wine production: the producers deliberately put the wine in reaction with heat and oxygen (which usually make other wines go bad). One way to do this is through the “estufagem”, done in a large, usually stainless steel container where they heat the wine for 3-4 months. Another way is the “canteiro”, where the wine is left in casks, usually oak, on the attic where they get the suns heat. This lasts at least 4 years. This is to mimic the long sea voyages that the wine was subject to.
Grape Varieties and Style of Madeira
Photo by Filipe Gomes on Unsplash
The Madeira wine can be done with several types of grape, but red grapes are most of the production, even though white grapes are also common. However, the grape color isn’t what particularly gives it its color, as this wine gains an amber of toffee-like color when it goes through its heating and oxidation process.
The Tinta Negra grapes (literally, ‘Black Paint’) are the most used, representing around 90% of the total production. The other 10% are made with Sercial, Verdelho, Boal and Malvasia grapes. These are used for more fine wines, aged naturally in cask without using a greenhouse and then sold at higher prices.
The level of sweetness and the flavor of the wines is based on the grapes with which it was made out of. This way it can be:
Dry: as the name says, it’s a dry wine. It’s the freshest and crispest-tasting Madeira wine. An example of grapes used for this wine are Sercial.
Medium-Dry: a smoky and slightly spicy taste. Some compare it to caramel. Verdelho is a grape example.
Medium-Sweet: as imagined, is slightly sweet but with added flavors of coffee, cacao, burnt caramel and raisins. Boal grapes are used for this.
Sweet: the sweetest of them all with a rich note of chocolate, produced using grapes like Malvasia.
Tinta Negra Mole grapes can be used to make all varieties of Madeira. You can know what level of sweetness you’re buying by reading the label. As for the other grape types, they have to correspond to the wine content, being single varietal types.
Suggestions
If you are looking for a good brand, which you can trust will give you a faithful taste of what a good Madeira is like, these are some of the ones you should be looking out for:
You will explore the amazing vineyards of Câmara de Lobos, Porto Moniz and São Vicente, with tours through the cellars and the wineries, as well as wine tastings and amazing views of the vineyards, the forests and the Madeiran coat. You will also enjoy a traditional Madeiran lunch at a local restaurant with local wines.
Here you will explore both the amazing nature and the incredible wine that the island has to offer. Going from the island’s capital, Funchal, you will visit lots of incredible natural places, including Cabo Girão, the highest cliff in Europe and the second highest in the world! Then you will visit a very important wine producer and get a guided tour though the vineyards, as well as a wine tasting of their wine while learning all about the wine culture and production of the island. All of this while travelling between places on an open-top 4×4.
Go to the main place of wine production, Câmara de Lobos, to meet a local producer and learn about how this wine is made. Then tour the rest of the wine regions of the island and get the spectacular views of the Madeiran nature and vineyards, while tasting this fortified wine.
Portugal is known for its 300+ days of sun and its warm temperatures. Tourists (and even locals) never associate Portugal with snowy weather or a ski getaway. However, it does snow in Portugal, particularly in a mountain range called Serra da Estrela, where the Portuguese go skiing. Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain range in all of continental Portugal and is 100 kilometres long and 30 kilometres wide.
Serra da Estrela Natural Park is a great place to ski, particularly for beginners. Tourists and locals head to the ski resorts in Seia and Manteigas to enjoy the slopes. The best time to visit Serra da Estrela for skiing is between January and March, making February the best month. Since the mountain is located between the municipalities of Seia, Manteigas, Gouveia, Guarda, and Covilha, these areas are also wonderful to explore, even in the summer months.
If you’re looking to visit Serra da Estrela, we have got you covered with a Serra da Estrela travel guide. From activities to do, restaurants to try and the best hotels in Serra da Estrela, everything you need to know is right here.
Things to do in Serra de Estrela
1. Snow Sports: Skiing & Snowboarding
The only place to ski in Portugal is Serra da Estrela. This is also one of the only places in the country where it snows. You should visit the only ski resort in the country that is open from November to April. This small ski resort only has four ski lifts and is perfect for children, as well as beginners. There are around 130 meters of vertical descents and nine ski descents. The best time to ski and snowboard in Serra da Estrela is between January and March.
Photo by Ricardo Rocha (Unsplash)
2. Take a hike
Serra da Estrela has some of the best hiking spots in the country. From easy to harder trails, you’ll find hikes for every age group. You can find a list of trails, their altitudes, and kilometres here. You can also climb the “Torre” mountain (tower) that is 2000 meters high. On a clear day, you can see the Atlantic ocean more than 150 kilometres away. Another great hike is hiking from Manteigas to the Poço do Inferno, a 7.5 KM hike that is considered medium level. The village of Manteigas is a quaint town that is perfect to explore and a great spot to discover the local cuisine. The hike will lead you to a waterfall that offers beautiful views.
Photo by Francisco T Santos (Unsplash)
3. Discover the Cheese Culture
The Cheese of Serra da Estrela is well-known all over the world. The recipe for this cheese was first created in the 16th century and reflects the shepherd and mountain life. Discover iconic mountain flavours by pairing it with rye bread and local wine. You can also visit the Cheese Museum in Pêraboa where you’ll get to learn about the history of cheese making in the area. You will also learn a bit about the shepherds who have lived in the mountains for centuries and of course, sample the local cheese.
For a full experience, book this tour of Serra da Estrela that includes a cheese tasting.
4. Visit the Covão dos Conchos
Covão dos Conchos, an artificial lake in the mountains is famous for its spillway, built in 1955 to divert water from Ribeira das Naves to Lagoa Comprida. This spillway actually went viral in 2016 for its sci-fi presentation. Over the last decades, moss has grown on top of it, adding to its beauty. The tunnel that collects the water to diver it is around 1,500 meters long. You can take a hike to get there, although this hike is difficult during the winter.
Photo by Natanael Vieira (Unsplash)
5. Explore the villages of Piódão
Piódão is a parish of multiple villages that take you back in time. These are often referred to as the historical villages of Portugal. Surrounded by forest and mountainous terrain, these tiny villages remind you of the set of Game of Thrones. You’ll find some of the best restaurants in the country located in the stoned houses in narrow streets. The parish includes Piódão itself, Malhada Chã, Chãs d’Égua, Tojo, Fórnea, Foz d`Égua, Barreiros, Covita, Torno, Casal Cimeiro and Casal Fundeiro.
Book this tour for a full-day private tour of some of the villages.
Serra da Estrela Weather: What is the Weather Like in Serra da Estrela?
Snow in Serra da Estrela
Weather in Serra da Estrela by Season
Spring (March – May)
Spring in Serra da Estrela is moderately cold. Temperatures are usually around 8.6°C (47.4°F), the highest being 17.8°C (64.1°F). There are around 10 days of rain per month. This time is not as busy with tourism.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is quite a busy season in Serra da Estrela as it rains the least, at around 2 days per month. Temperatures usually range from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F).
Fall (September – November)
Fall in Serra da Estrela is quite mild with temperatures between 5.7°C (42.3°F) and 21.8°C (71.3°F). It can rain up to 10 days a month. Fall is when hotels are less busy.
Winter (December – February)
Winter in Serra da Estrela is cold as temperatures can reach around -5°C (23°F) to -10°C (9.4°F). Like fall, this is a very rainy season.
When is the best time to visit Serra da Estrela?
If you are going to ski or snowboard, the best times to visit Serra da Estrela are between January and March, making February the best month. If you are looking to hike and enjoy some warm weather, the best months to visit are July, August, and September. Regardless of the weather, Serra da Estrela is a beautiful experience all year round.
5 Best Restaurants in Serra da Estrela
Serra da Estrela is known for its unique cuisine and many well-known products in Portugal come from this region, including the Serra da Estrela cheese, the beef stew, and olive oil. The food here is like nowhere else in the country. You’ll find affordable prices that will satisfy your stomach on those cold days. Here are the 4 best restaurants in Serra da Estrela:
Located on the top of the “torre” mountain, this place offers a panoramic view of the mountain range. This restaurant serves regional dishes such as a shepherd style stew, as the Serra da Estrela Cheese. You can get a meal here for €20. Considering the view you get from this restaurant, it really is a bargain.
Varanda da Estrela is a small rustic restaurant on the top of the mountain. Perfect for a cold day, warm yourself next to the fireplace and try some of their delicious dishes. We recommend the “porco preto” (pig) and codfish. This place also has vegetarian options that feature the Serra da Estrela cheese. You can get a meal here for under €15.
This restaurant is so amazing that you have to book way in advance. This stoned restaurant specializes in traditional mountain food made with regional products. We recommend the leitao (roast pig) and the javali (wild boar), dishes you will not find anywhere else at this quality. A menu with starter, main, dessert, drink, and coffee costs €17.
Located in the Luna Hotel, having a meal at Restaurante Medieval offers a unique experience. Regional dishes are presented in medieval style with large wooden tables and a communal atmosphere with a buffet. The walls are made out of a typical stone and the wooden walls make you feel like you are going back centuries. We recommend trying their meat dishes and their selection of Serra da Estrela Cheese, the recipes dating back thousands of years. A meal here will cost you less than €20.
Lenda Viriato was founded to give guests an experience that takes them back to the origins of Portugal. Name after Viriato, the leader of the Lusitan people that represents victory and courage, this restaurant has a strong history. The building was built in 1905 and was where the local people from the village came to bake bread on a wooden fire. Today, you can try regional foods such as veal, pork, and boar dishes. You can have a meal here for less than €20.
Transportation in Serra da Estrela: How to Get to & Around Serra da Estrela
To get to Serra da Estrela from Lisbon, you can take a bus, train or rent a car. A train from Lisbon to Covilha is around 4 hours and costs around €30. From Covilha, you can take a 20 minute taxi for €15 to Serra da Estrela. You can also take a bus from Oriente Station in Lisbon to Covilha that takes 6 hours and costs €20. However, we do recommend renting. car so that you can get around Serra da Estrela more easily. The drive from Lisbon to Serra da Estrela is around 3h30 minutes. This is the best option as the bus system is quite slow and not the most convenient in the snow.
5 Best Hotels in Serra da Estrela: Where to stay in Serra da Estrela
Quinta do Rio Noémi is a 19th-century property, 3 km away from Guarda Castle and has an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and a terrace. Each room is equipped with air conditioning and a flat screen. Some rooms have a private patio, perfect to enjoy an afternoon cocktail in. A sustainable property, you can get a room here for €90.
SerraVale – House & Nature, located near SkiPark Manteigas is the perfect accommodation for families wanting to go skiing. The property has a garden, a shared lounge, and a bar. The property has a rustic environment and each room has a different decor theme. All rooms have a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. A room here costs at least €60 a night with a continental breakfast included.
Casa de Lagarinhos is a 400 m² private villa for 13 people, only 10 km away from the Serra da Estrela mountain. If you’re looking for a vacation getaway for the whole family, this place won’t disappoint. The 6-bedroom property has panoramic views, a garden, a jacuzzi, a spa, a sauna, a gym, and more. This place even has a large room with a pool table. You can rent the whole villa for only €300 a night.
Only 1 km away from the mountain, Turismo Rural Macieira Brava is located in Guarda. This picturesque one-bedroom home in a rural environment is surrounded by nature, offering a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. All windows on this property are double glazed for a warm interior. This place also has a garden and terrace. You can rent this home for €150 a night.
Lusitânia Hotel is a 4-star hotel with a dry and wet sauna, a hotel tub, and a massage room. Along with a gym, this hotel also has a gym and water sports facility, as well as an organic farm and flower garden. The hotel’s restaurant makes use of products from the organic farm. All the rooms have modern decor and satellite TV, as well as free wi-fi. You can rent a room here for €130 a night with breakfast included.
Frequently Asked Questions about Serra da Estrela
Can you ski in Serra da Estrela? Is Serra da Estrela good for skiing?
You can ski in Serra da Estrela. Serra da Estrela has a small ski resort with four ski lifts and nine ski descents, making it a good place for beginners and children.
Can you ski in Portugal?
You can ski in Serra da Estrela in Portugal.
Does it snow in Portugal?
It snows in Serra da Estrela, particularly between January and March.
How cold does it get in Serra da Estrela?
Winter in Serra da Estrela is cold as temperatures can reach around -5°C (23°F) to -10°C (9.4°F).
The historical importance of Coimbra is massive, it’s one of Portugal’s oldest cities, since the Roman times, this city was already an important location. This city is also known as the city of students since it’s home of the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest and most important universities in the world. In this article we will present which are the best hotels for your stay in this wonderful city.
Quinta das Lágrimas Hotel
We start this list of luxury hotels in Coimbra with a hotel that is breathtaking in several aspects, the Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas. This five-star hotel was recently renovated and is located inside a historic, medieval palace. The hotel features botanical gardens, a state-of-the-art and pure luxury spa – with views of the city, two incredible restaurants, a wine cellar, an outdoor pool, Turkish bath and steam room, wellness Centre and a gym. You can also relax in the Bamboo Green Spa which features a range of luxury treatments and beauty therapies. For reading aficionados, be sure to enjoy in the hotel’s library. This hotel is also a reference for golfers as it has a fantastic golf course.
As far as room options are concerned, there are three types of accommodation to choose from: the palace superior room, spacious, air-conditioned, with stone-walled bathroom and classic decor; the large superior suite, with wood or stone floors, private bathroom and views of the garden and private terraces or gardens; and the deluxe superior, which is a mixture of the previous two.
Hotel Sapientia Boutique
Hotel Sapientia Boutique is a 4 star hotel is located 300 meters from the University of Coimbra which offers 24-hour reception, luggage room, free breakfast and other facilities such as wake-up service, transfer service, bicycle rental and free Wi-Fi access throughout the property. It also has a restaurant, which is ideal for those who like to enjoy simple meals and experience the regional cuisine. Rooms at the hotel feature a terrace and city views and a flat-screen TV. Another feature of some of the bedrooms is that they have a seating area which will allow you to relax after a busy day. Each is equipped with a private bathroom with a bath or shower. For added convenience, the rooms have free toiletries and a hairdryer. If you’re an explorer, the hotel also provides a bicycle rental service and you can visit S. Sebastião Aqueduct, only 400 meters from Sapientia Boutique Hotel and also Portugal dos Pequenitos (800 metres away).
Hotel Vila Galé
The Vila Gale Hotel in Coimbra is another hotel that could not be left out of this list of luxury hotels in Coimbra. Overlooking the Mondego River, it is a 4-star hotel close to the the city historic center. It boasts two pools, one indoor and one outdoor; spa treatments; free wifi; breakfast; a restaurant and a bar. This hotel has 229 modern flats, is designed for leisure and business travelers and its theme is dance, which serves as inspiration for the decor. But you can also ‘spin’ by the outdoor pool and contemplate the river from there, by the two restaurants, the bar or the library. For a well-deserved rest, be sure to take a break at the Satsanga Spa that features indoor pool, sauna, wet sauna, hydro massage pool and gym.
This hotel in Coimbra also has a convention and events area with capacity for 600 people. The wi-fi is free in all areas of the hotel Vila Galé Coimbra. The hotel rooms are cosy, with soft tones and fine fabrics. Room amenities include air-conditioning, television, work desk, private bathroom, and some feature a sitting area. In the bathrooms there is a hair dryer, toiletries and a bathtub. If you want to have some fun, you can take advantage of the hotel’s billiard room. For those who are more active, the best thing to do is to visit the hotel gym.
Hotel TRYP
TRYP Coimbra is a 4 star hotel that enjoys a hilltop location in the city, just 100 meters from the University Hospitals a national and worldwide hospital reference. If you are in town to explore, this is also a good option as it is only 15 minutes’ walk from the prestigious University of Coimbra and also has easy access to the historic city center.
The rooms rooms at TRYP include ar conditioned and they’re decorated in a modern style with pastel colors. They include a cable TV, a minibar, a work desk and a private bathroom with a hairdryer. If you like to enjoy mealt, this hotel’s guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner service at the hotel restaurant, Baga, which serves a several Portuguese, international and vegetarian meal options. If you appreciate having a drink at night or other time of the day, the hotel invites you to visit the bar which has live music once a week. The Hotel Tryp Coimbra also offers you 6 meeting rooms for events or business, fully equipped with audiovisual material, air-conditioning and internet access.
Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra
Solar Antigo Luxury Hotel is located in the historic center of Coimbra and it’s classified as UNESCO World Heritage. It is a secular, elegant and unique place, full of charm and that will make your stay unforgettable, suitable for those who like to spend a stay with refinement. The compelling beauty and stunning historical setting of this property, combined with the local traditions, make it an ideal destination for you. The Solar Antigo has a traditional feeling, it’s main feature is that the original architecture of the building is preserved, maintaining its history.
The rooms in this hotel have perks like air conditioning, TV (flat-screen with access to atellite channels), coffee machine, shower, hairdryer and a large wardrobe. They also include a private bathroom, free toiletries and bed linen. In addition, guests can take advantage of the internet at their leisure with free wi-fi. In addition, when staying at Hotel Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra, guests can use amenities such as luggage storage. If you have a car, parking can be always a problem in this area but that’s not problem if you’re staying in this hotel! There’s on-street parking at Hotel Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra. During your stay, take advantage of the location of this wonderful hotel and be sure to check out some of the best restaurants serving seafood, including Solar do Bacalhau, Restaurante Aeminium, and Dom Duarte Dois, all within walking distance of Hotel Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra.
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