Exploring each European nation has always been a goal of mine. Thanks to Lyric’s Destinations Travel Group, In 2022 I had the opportunity to explore my first pick, Greece and since then I have been on a mission to explore all of Europe. In the summer of 2023 I decided to check Spain and Portugal off my bucket list and I went to none other than Alyshia to plan my next adventure. While we were planning my Iberian Experience, Alyshia noticed my attention to details and offered me a position in the company which I gladly accepted!
While both Greece and Spain hold special memories, Portugal stands out for its tranquility. This expansive European land, renowned for its stunning coastline, historic castles, delicious cuisine, and wine, truly lived up to expectations. During my time in Portugal, I visited Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, Porto, and the Douro Valley – each contributing to my growing affection for the country.
Porto & The Douro Valley
Our first destination is Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, renowned for its association with port wine. The charming streets are paved with cobblestones, exuding an 18th century ambiance with its trendy shops, eateries, and cozy hotels. A visit to Porto is incomplete without a journey to the Douro Valley, where both port and table wines are produced. This enchanting valley boasts a breathtaking landscape filled with beauty and magic, serving as the oldest defined wine region in the world!
One of the wineries we stopped at – Quinta de Santa Julia has the most beautiful view of the Douro Valley. It is one of the oldest properties in the Valley and it is still family owned and operated. The lovely couple that owes it still lives on the property! The entire winery is surrounded by vineyards, chestnut and cork trees, and beautiful flowers – it looks like a view straight from Apple Screensaver.
Lisbon, Sintra, & Cascais
After leaving Porto, we journeyed to Lisbon, Portugal’s capital known for its hilly terrain and coastal beauty.We stayed at the Hotel Marquês de Pombal, a tribute to the influential Marquis de Pombal who played a key role in the country’s recovery after the devastating 1755 earthquake. Situated in the vibrant heart of the city, the Hotel Marquês de Pombal buzzes with local activity, offering a plethora of dining options, bars, shops, and upscale boutiques within convenient walking distance.
While only in Lisbon for three days we made the most of it – we took an all day excursion to Sintra and Cascais.. Sintra is a longtime royal sanctuary that is studded with pastel-colored villas and palaces. Most infamous is the Pena Palace. This colorful, multidimensional castle stands on the top of a hill in the Sintra Mountains above the town. The castle is a bright yellow, orange, and red that can be seen from Lisbon on a bright and clear day. Just a fifteen minute drive from Sintra is the lovely town of Cascais. Caiscais is a coastal town known for its sandy beaches and busy marina. The views were spectacular from here as well with a clear sky we could see for miles!
Cabo de Roca was also a major attraction we saw while in Sintra. Cabo da Roca – is a cape which forms the westernmost point of Europe, we were at the same latitude as Washington D.C – how awesome! The coolest thing about Cabo da Roca is that there is a little stand out in the middle that serves what they quote “the universe’s best Piña colada”. We could not pass up this opportunity to try and they did not disappoint! It was a vision – standing on this “VERY” high cape looking down at the Atlantic Ocean sipping a Piña colada with my sister. Best Day Ever!
The day before we ventured back to the states we took a half day tour of Lisbon. Hitting some of the city’s major attractions such as Belem Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, and Ajuda National Palace. Although we did not get to go inside the Mosteiro do Jeronimos, admiring its beauty from the outside was enough.
Portugal holds a special place in my heart now. During my time there, I developed a newfound appreciation for port wine, the beauty of nature, and leisurely strolls around ancient castles. I am fascinated by how this compact country exudes such charm, not just in its natural scenery and architectural wonders, but also in its warm and hospitable people. Every person we encountered was incredibly friendly and open to visitors. Although our five-day visit was brief, it only took a single day for me to completely fall in love with Portugal. It is definitely a destination I wish to revisit in the future. Until we meet again – Adeus Portugal!
