In the latest instalment of our team's travels we hear from European Travel Specialist, Torr... 

Name:

Torr Walker

Where did you go?

The Central Region of Portugal

Which operator did you travel with?

Typically Holidays

When did you go?

October 2024

What were your top 3 moments?

1. We adventured through the Schist Villages (one of Portugal’s best kept secrets) via buggy and jeeps. The 27 villages are situated across the Lousa and Acor mountain ranges, they are called Schist Villages because this is the stone used in the construction of houses.

2. In Coimbra, we took a walking tour visiting the Botanical Gardens, Coimbra University/Old Library, The Historical Centre and the Monumental Stairs. Coimbra old town has the perfect mix of medieval doors, cobbled streets and colourful architecture, however like many cities across Portugal be prepared to walk up and down. To complete our visit to Coimbra we were lucky enough to watch a traditional Fado performance.

3. We saw a handful of amazing beaches, however the highlight for me was Obidos Lagoon. We took a scenic costal walk and every step closer we got to the Lagoon the views got more impressive. Lots of the beaches on the Atlantic Coast can be unsuitable for swimming due to the big waves, however Obidos Lagoon was protected so perfect for a lazy day on the beach or there were plenty of activities for the more adventurous (kitesurfing, snorkelling, diving and paragliding).

Tell us more about your experience...

Many visitors travelling to Portugal head straight to the beaches of the Algarve, overlooking the many historical and cultural highlights this varied country has to offer. We travelled from Porto right through the Center Region of Portugal to Lisbon visiting Aveiro, Costa Nova, Coimbra, Lousa, The Schist Villages, Nazare, Fatima, Tomar, Caldas da Rainha, Obidos and Peniche, this gave me a great insight to the ‘real’ Portugal.

A reason to return?

Firstly, I need to return for the Pastel de Nata (Portuguese custard tart), just delicious! However, Lisbon is a city which has been on my list for a while, I would love to tour this area, visit Sintra and explore the cosmopolitan Estoril Coast.