Portuguese countryside

Portugal is much more than popular beaches and historic cities.

If you ever hear someone say Portugal doesn’t have a proper national park, they’ve simply not made it up to Gerês.

There’s a village in Serra da Estrela with more than a dozen natural swimming pools linked by hiking trails. Clean, icy water tumbles down the hillside, filling rock pools that look almost hand-carved.There’s no airport, no five-star hotels, and no queues outside museums.

The Algarve region has won 3rd place in the "Most Popular Hiking Regions in Europe 2026" award, given by the German magazine Trekking Magazine. The Portuguese region appears alongside historic mountain destinations such as the Dolomites/South Tyrol (1st place) and Brittany (2nd place).

The national animal of Portugal is not the rooster, as many believe, but a type of wolf that still roams parts of the country and carries real symbolic weight in rural Portugal.What is the national animal of Portugal?Why is the Iberian wolf the national animal of Portugal?Where does the Iberian wolf

Portugal doesn’t do national parks in the same way as Spain or Italy. Instead, most protected areas fall under the natural park label.

European Wine City 2026 is the title given to highlight one region’s wine, culture and tourism in Europe for a full year. In 2026, the spotlight goes to a rural area in Portugal that is still very much off the mainstream tourist trail.

As autumn gives way to winter, Portugal’s countryside transforms into a picture of golden leaves, crisp air, and cosy corners perfect for slowing down. Beyond its famous sun, sea, and sand, the country offers a wide range of rural properties for those seeking a peaceful countryside lifestyle.

Nestled in the heart of Alentejo, southern Portugal, the charming village of Mértola has earned international recognition from the United Nations as one of the world’s Best Tourism Villages in 2025.

Are there any lakes in Portugal? While Portugal is famous for its stunning coastline and sun-soaked beaches, the country also offers a selection of beautiful lakes and lagoons perfect for autumn getaways.

A quieter season suits Portugal’s smaller places: medieval walls without tour groups, fog lifting over terraced vineyards, and cosy taverns serving bowls of caldo verde.

Portugal is grappling with a series of devastating wildfires that have swept across multiple regions. As emergency services contend with numerous active fronts, official figures show the blazes have already consumed over 140,000 hectares of land.

Country homes in Portugal stand out for their charm, character and use of traditional materials such as wood, stone and brick. Also known as rustic homes, they appeal to buyers looking for a quieter lifestyle or an affordable second home in the countryside.

Portugal may be famous for its golden beaches and historic cities, but it’s also a dream destination for hikers. From rugged coastal paths to mountain adventures, Portugal offers trails for every level of experience.

Portugal is widely known for its Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. However, not all regions of the country follow this climatic pattern.

Nestled in the northern part of Portugal, the Douro Valley is a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and exceptional wines.

On our quest to visit the most unique hotels in Portugal, today we're travelling to the Serra da Esperança to discover TheVagar Countryhouse Belmonte, a peaceful haven for family or friends’ holidays in the mountains, entirely dedicated to relaxation.Triple award-winner at the latest edition of the

Embark on a journey through Portugal's enchanting small towns, where the serene lifestyle is complemented by rich cultural tapestries and historical treasures. These hidden gems offer a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle, providing a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

It is considered one of the strangest houses in the world and, since 2014, few can remain indifferent to its peculiarity.

It is known by many as the Sintra's Disney palace, but its real name is Quinta da Felicidade.

The historical village of Castelo Novo, in the municipality of Fundão (district of Castelo Branco), has been named among the best tourist villages in the world.