Out & About April 2017

Easter is the perfect time to book a unique trip. Hungerford travel agent Bailey Robinson says Portugal has a lot more to offer than just its trademark port wine

A n ancient kingdom defended by hilltop castles and fortified towns, Portugal is not just a place for history buffs; its cities are home to some of Europe’s most adventurous architecture, vibrant streetlife, fabulous food and wine and friendly locals, and its beaches are without comparison. This itinerary showcases the highlights, from Lisbon through the northwest to Porto and the Douro Valley. Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world and the political, cultural and economic centre of Portugal. Built over seven small hills that rise from the banks of the river Tagus, this is a city overflowing with history and folklore. Explore cobbled streets and squares, museums, galleries and gothic cathedrals as trams trundle up and down the steep, leafy streets.

production, Porto is located at the mouth of the River Douro, about three hours drive from Lisbon. Stroll through the fascinating, medieval streets of Ribeira and explore the riverfront, lined with colourful houses and picturesque traditional boats floating at the quayside. Sit back in one of the multitude of bars and cafés and watch the world go by over superb seafood and fine local wines. No visit to Portugal would be complete without a trip to one of the port cellars. Across the river from Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia is the place to head with a hearty appetite for port. The Yeatman Hotel revolves around wine as clearly indicated by the decanter-shaped pool, the 25,000-bottle cellar and the grape-pip treatments on offer at the spa.

World-class cuisine and remarkable architecture reflects Lisbon’s history and each district is bursting with individual character; discover Alfama’s medieval charm, elegant Baixa, the heart of the city and chic Chiado, the shopping, theatre and cultural centre. At night, the Bairro Alto district comes alive with bars and restaurants and the sound of Portugal’s traditional music. Location-wise you can’t beat the Bairro Alto Hotel. Overlooking the city’s main square in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, this stylish, bold yellow hotel cleverly combines classic features with contemporary design. Head to the hotel’s romantic rooftop bar for a cocktail as the sun sets, and consider visiting the beaches of the nearby town of Cascais or hiking in the gorgeous Sintra National Park. Known for its stately bridges and port wine

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