| Feel the Passion The Portuguese were once famed for their seafaring and trading, so perhaps they have a natural affinity with travellers even though for decades they were somewhat neglected by visitors to Europe. That is changing now, and for good reason, as people discover the distinctive culture and landscapes of olives, almonds, cork trees, vineyards, windmills and unspoilt villages. In Lisbon, its capital, take time to wander through the narrow streets of Bairro Alto or Alfama. Time has stood still here, where washing hangs out to dry from upstairs balconies, caged birds are brought outside for some air, and in the evenings the strains of fado can be heard wafting out from local cafes. Fado is the essence of Portugal – fado means fate, and its songs tell of heartbreak and longing. Beyond Lisbon lies Sintra, known as one of Portugal’s most beautiful towns, with its Moorish palace, crumbling villas with wroughtiron balconies festooned with flowering vines, and verdant forests. There are also kilometres of beaches (the most famous of which are along the Algarve and Costa do Sol), medieval monasteries and hills dotted with castles and wild flowers. Braga, with its Baroque churches, is known as the Rome of Portugal. To the north is Porto, on the River Douro, where the country’s most famous export, port wine, is stored in warehouses known as lodges before it is dispatched all around the world. Take a cruise along the river or visit a tiny fishing village along the coast. Fresh fish, especially sardines, are a staple of Portuguese cuisine, along with olive oil. |