Source: SUPERCASA Author: Redação Portugals Alentejo coast is a hidden treasure that offers a unique mix of beaches, cliffs and a rich cultural heritage. If youre planning to explore this region, SUPERCASA Notícias has some suggestions for excursions that will help you experience the best the Alentejo Coast has to offer: Paradise beaches The Costa Alentejana is famous for its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters . Visit iconic beaches such as Praia do Carvalhal, Praia da Comporta and Praia de Odeceixe to enjoy a relaxing swim and stunning scenery. Rota Vicentina: Coastal Walks The Rota Vicentina offers stunning coastal trails that take you through dramatic cliffs , sand dunes and unspoilt natural landscapes. Walk the route to experience panoramic views and a deep connection with nature. Birdwatching The Alentejo Coast is a paradise for birdwatchers . The Sado Estuary Nature Reserve and Santo André Lagoon are popular spots for spotting seabirds and migratory birds in their natural habitat. Porto Covo Village: Coastal Charm Explore the charming village of Porto Covo, known for its whitewashed houses, quiet beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit the Church of São Sebastião and take in the picturesque scenery. Sines Castle: Historical Heritage Visit Sines Castle, a historical landmark dating back to the 15th century. Explore the castle walls, the Sines Museum and enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the sea. Alentejo gastronomy Dont miss out on savouring authentic Alentejo cuisine. Try dishes such as lamb stew, migas, regional cheeses and Alentejo bread. Also enjoy the fresh and delicious seafood. Sunset on the cliffs End your walks with an unforgettable sunset on the cliffs of the Alentejo Coast. Find a quiet spot to enjoy the spectacular colours of the sky as the sun sets over the horizon. Always remember to respect the environment and follow local guidelines when visiting the Costa Alentejana. This region offers a unique experience of nature, culture and beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your memory. And if you really like this place, why not take a look at some of the properties available on SUPERCASA ? Alentejo Farmhouse 2 bedrooms - 290.000€ Apartment 2 bedrooms + 1 - 798.000€ Apartment 1 bedroom +1 - 483.500€ Follow these and other suggestions in SUPERCASA Notícias
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Lousã is a charming village in the heart of Portugal, and a destination that combines stunning natural landscapes with a rich historical heritage. For those planning to visit the region, SUPERCASA Notícias has some suggestions to help you discover the best that Lousã has to offer. And at the end, take a look at some of the properties for sale in the town, should you wish to move here. Schist Villages: rustic charm Start your journey with a stroll through the picturesque schist villages that surround Lousã. Villages such as Talasnal, Casal Novo and Cerdeira offer a unique experience, with traditional stone houses and a rustic atmosphere that will transport you back in time. Lousã Castle: history and panoramic views Climb up to Lousã Castle for a historical experience. This medieval castle offers stunning panoramic views of the town and the surrounding hills. Explore the ruins, soak up the ancient atmosphere and take some memorable photos. Serra da Lousã Biological Park: nature and education Visit the Serra da Lousã Biological Park for an educational experience and contact with nature, where youll find a huge variety of animal and plant species. Youll have the unique opportunity to learn about the local fauna and flora. Senhora da Graça River Beach: relax by the river Enjoy a relaxing day at the Senhora da Graça River Beach. Located on the banks of the River Arouce, this beach offers bathing areas, picnic areas and a peaceful atmosphere that will allow you to relax by the river. Ameixoeira Caves: explore underground secrets For adventure lovers, the Ameixoeira Caves are an exciting attraction. Explore the underground galleries and marvel at the impressive limestone formations that have been sculpted by nature over the centuries. Trails and walks Lousã is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. There are several well-marked trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Schist Villages Route is a popular option that allows you to explore the various schist villages in a single route. Local Gastronomy Finish your tour with a tasting of the delicious local gastronomy. Try traditional dishes such as chanfana (goat meat stew), sopa da pedra (stone soup) and regional cheeses, accompanied by a glass of local wine. And if youre looking for a home, SUPERCASA suggests: Apartment 4 bedrooms - 280.000€ Apartament 3 bedrooms - 235.000€ Continue exploring the properties available on SUPERCASA here .
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction In a statement to SUPERCASA Notícias , GuestReady, the leading company in the local accommodation sector in Portugal, announced a 20% increase in the number of bookings in the first half of 2023 , a record figure. However, the company warns of high costs that could jeopardize summer results. In the first six months, the growing number of bookings verified by GuestReady accompanied the growth of the companys Local Accommodation (LA) portfolio, a scenario that is now also positive: for August, the company is already registering an occupancy rate of over 90%. According to the information that GuestReady provided to SUPERCASA Notícias , on average, the standard tourist in Portugal stays in LA for four nights - a slight increase compared to 2022, and the most common tourist profile is a couple traveling without children, and the most recurrent nationality is French. The other tourists who booked the most in LA are Portuguese, Spanish, English, German, American and Brazilian. GuestReadys data confirms the figures released this week by the National Statistics Institute: 2023 is marking record tourism figures in Portugal. The company also confirms that accommodation prices this year are slightly higher than in 2022, meaning that vacations in Portugal are more expensive . Despite the apparently favorable scenario for LA managers, GuestReady warns that the increase in management costs could mean that the results of the summer vacations do not match the sectors high expectations. The slightly higher price of bookings is also a reflection of this increase in costs, but this change in price is not in line with, and may not compensate for, the evolution of inflation for operators. GuestReady, which operates in seven countries, also reports a 3% drop in occupancy in Europe , a reflection of inflation and the rising cost of living. This downturn has not yet occurred in Portugal, which continues to record positive figures, but the country is not immune to this reality: since June there has been a slight drop in the number of bookings compared to the sectors forecasts . The tourism market in Portugal is growing, occupancy is high and we recorded a record number of bookings in the first six months of the year, explains Rui Silva, Managing Director of GuestReady in Portugal , in the note to which SUPERCASA Notícias has had access. But its misleading to say that the summer of 2023 is turning out to be the best ever for Local Accommodation in our country: the offer is increasingly diverse, competitiveness is increasing and management costs are rising, which is taking profit away from the individual owner. The sector has to be alert to the progressive increase in these costs, and we cant stop focusing on sustainability for the continued growth of tourism in Portugal. Related topics: Find out how to plan your vacation budget , Revenues in tourist accommodation continue to rise or Hotel sector makes positive forecasts for 2023
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The holiday period is a relaxed time where you have the chance to disconnect from the hassles of work and the chaotic routines of weekdays , and you can simply relax, enjoy doing nothing and, if youre lucky, take a few days to get away from home and travel. If this is the case for you, and you do have a trip in mind that involves a few days away from home, it is important that you remember a few things before you go , ensuring that you leave your home immaculate and free from future problems that may plague you upon your return. So that you can enjoy your holidays in the greatest of relaxation, and so that you go rested without missing anything on the checklist, SUPERCASA News leaves you a set of reminders to prepare your home before leaving it for a period of days or weeks , ensuring that everything is taken care of. Check sockets, lights, equipment and anything else that might impact your return. This is one of the most common mistakes people make when rushing out of the house. And if it frustrates you when things are only switched on for a few hours, imagine what it would be like if days passed. Its vital that you check your home before you go on holiday, making sure everything is turned off properly. Check lights, electrical equipment, plugs, and see what can be switched off. You dont want to unplug large appliances such as a fridge or freezer that still contain food, as that would be an even bigger headache when you return from your holiday and realize that everything is spoiled, smells bad, and you have to do twice as much work cleaning it up and throwing it away. So our advice is to empty these appliances or leave the bare minimum in them for when you get back, making sure they are products or foods that will last for the days you are away. This is important to ensure that you minimize consumption on your electricity bill , as you wont want to find out that everything has been contributing to a higher figure than you would expect during your absence. This also includes taps and plumbing , not only to save money but above all to avoid flooding or other inconvenient situations. And for the food you have in cupboards and pantries, like the food you have stored in your fridge or freezer, you should check the expiry dates to avoid situations like the one weve already mentioned. Dont forget your plants Its likely that the last thing on your mind is maintaining your plants, if you have them. Unfortunately, as these are elements that need certain care, it is important that you realize if the days you will be away could have an impact on them . Depending on the type of plant and the days you are away, it may be appropriate to ask a friend or family member to visit your home to water them . In any case, even if they dont need immediate watering, make sure you close all the windows and shutters, or leave them slightly raised so that the plants can receive sunlight. If you have pets, take them with you on holiday! If you cant, leave them at a pet hotel or in the care of family or friends. If you follow these tips, you will certainly have a restful holiday. And we also offer you an additional tip : ask someone you trust to visit your home from time to time to ensure that everything is in order and to prevent possible thieves from noticing your absence.
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction August is a typically dynamic month, with plenty of celebrations and pilgrimages throughout the country. Some of these are religious celebrations, but most include festivals, city festivals and other summer gatherings, which attract visitors to watch activities, shows and big names in Portuguese music. So prepare your diary and enjoy the selection of festivals that SUPERCASA Notícias brings you , and discover, with these selections, the hidden charms that Portugal has to offer. Olhão Seafood Festival If you decide to spend some time in the south of the country, we recommend the city of Olhão , a special point of reference on the Algarve tourist route. We suggest you visit this city with exotic architecture, not only for its unrivalled gastronomy, but also for its beautiful islands. Also take advantage of the seafood festival, which will take place between 10 August and 14 August, in the Jardim Pescador Olhanense, with the beautiful Ria Formosa in the background. This festival will showcase the wide variety of seafood, the traditional method of cooking it, and the traditional regional sweets. And yet, because it could not miss, there will be the exhibition of handicrafts and shows. The festival features some of the biggest names in music, and daily tickets cost €10. For children between the ages of 7 and 12, the cost is €5. Last year, the festival broke records for ticket sales and the sale of seafood and shellfish. This year, grilled prawns, seafood rice, crab cakes, paellas, lobsters and lobsters and others will be served. Senhora da Agonia: Viana do Castelo The pilgrimage in honour of Our Lady of Agony in Viana do Castelo will take place between 14 and 22 August. This is an annual festival that began in 1772, but it was only in 1783 that the celebrations began to take place in August, being considered the largest pilgrimage in Portugal. The pilgrimage of Our Lady of Agony features a parade of folkloric groups and groups of drums, one of the highlights of this festival, and also the transfer of images of Senhor dos Aflitos and Nossa Senhora da Assunção. There is also the parade in Praça da Republica and Avenida dos Combatentes of the Gigantones and Cabeçudos. The festival also features the Mordomia parade , which involves more than half a thousand women spreading the traditional chieira throughout the city, wearing traditional and beautiful costumes with kilos of gold on their chests, this parade being qualified as the largest free gold showcase in the world. On 20 August, the procession to the sea begins, on the day of Our Lady of Agony, where the men wear their best shirts in squares, as is the tradition of the sea, carrying the andores on their shoulders to the pier. The boats are then blessed to be taken to the sea and the river. Feira de São Mateus in Viseu Another of the great Portuguese pilgrimages is the São Mateus fair, which will take place in Viseu between 10 August and 21 September, and which features concerts, entertainment, commerce and, most importantly, gastronomy. The poster of this years edition has the presence of well-known names from the world of Portuguese music such as José Cid, Os Azeitonas, Bárbara Bandeira, Toy, Diogo Piçarra, D.A.M.A, among others, and will feature tournaments of Gamming, Padel, Static Rowing and also a contest of Cheetah Dresses. São Bento da Porta Aberta in Gerês The second largest Portuguese sanctuary, the Sanctuary of São Bento da Porta Aberta in Gerês, which attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every year, leads the statistics only below the Sanctuary of Fátima and, between 10 and 15 August, will have a religious exhibition with parades and representations of art made of fabric. This Sanctuary enjoys an excellent geographical location , right in the heart of Minho, a place preferred by the cult of the founder of the Benedictines, there will also be performances by folkloric ranches, meetings of concertina groups and challenge songs, with the majestic procession in honour of St. Peter taking place on August 13. August Tide Festival on the island of Santa Maria For those who want to take a holiday away from the mainland and feel like visiting the little piece of paradise that Portugal has to offer, you can visit the bay of Praia Formosa on the island of Santa Maria, in the Azores Archipelago, where the Maré de Agosto International Music Festival will take place between 24 and 26 August. The festival will bring together some well-known names, who will perform on a stage located just 20 metres from the beach. During its 30 editions, the Maré de Agosto Festival has been highlighted by the participation of well-known names in the national and international music scene, with several currents of World Music being represented over the years in this festival, which began with a group of Azorean artists and had the proactivity to promote a meeting of several musicians from the island. Currently, entrance tickets cost €50 for the three days of the festival. Enjoy this month of August and learn more about: 8 New locations classified as Villages of Portugal or Escapadinha no Douro: discover the exclusive refuges
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction August is typically a holiday month , where people choose to take a few days off to travel, go to the beach or enjoy family evenings, taking advantage of the good temperatures. Holidays are synonymous with relaxing, but it is also normal to think of the beach, as it combines the best of both worlds. So, because we have at our disposal a country full of unexplored treasures, some of them with charms that will make you want to return, we show you the best river beaches in the country - not least because, despite Portugals vast sea coast, there are many beaches inland, full of appeals that you will get to know here. It is important to emphasise that there are hundreds of river beaches, many of them with other attributes besides the bathing area. They are places often surrounded by nature and with characteristics quite different from ordinary beaches. On hot days, they are an infallible paradise and, for those with children, it works as a safer option. Discover the best river beaches in the country: 1 - Azenhas River Beach, in Vilar de Mouros Located in the north of the country, and often the refuge of festival-goers who head to the Paredes de Coura Festival every year, it is a place full of amenities , not only for its clear and fresh waters, but also for the infrastructures it offers to its visitors, such as the support bar, the picnic park and the leisure areas. Surrounded by the nature of Minho, it is a safe beach that provides a place of deep rest and a refuge on windy days . It is prepared with a lifeguard during the bathing season and is ideal for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 2 - Castanheira River Beach in Ferreira do Zêzere This oasis in the heart of Ribatejo is known for its crystal clear and mild waters , and is often referred to as the Blue Lake River Beach. With lots of shaded areas, providing pleasant moments on the hottest sunny days, it is full of equipment that allows the practice of water sports, such as water scooter, windsurfing and seagull. For the more adventurous, it is the ideal holiday setting, where the days on the water will be long and exciting. 3 - River Beach of Cardigos, in Mação Still in the lower border area, with a breathtaking beauty , you will find this relaxing river beach, where you can walk on the grassy areas and sunbathe under the straw hats. And if you are looking for a place where you can go to socialise with friends, this is perhaps the perfect option, since you will find in this beach a picnic area and barbecue grills, where you can prepare your meals and enjoy the summer leisure so common this season. 4 - River Beach of Rocas, in Castanheira de Pera Youll find, right in the centre of Portugal , this wonderful family refuge, located on a lake almost a kilometre away. Inserted in a leisure complex, and with lots of animations that will get kids and adults celebrating the essence of summer , this beach has, in addition to numerous water activities, a swimming pool with waves, considered the largest in the country. 5 - Olhos de Água River Beach, in Alcanena Well known for its spring of clean and fresh waters , this is a beach where you can enjoy pleasant and well-disposed leisure days. Youll be able to enjoy the camping site and, if you take children, a playground that will delight you. It is not to be missed for its educational and cultural offer, as you can visit the Alviela Living Science Centre and the Gruta da Canada, where you will discover a cave inhabited by bats. These are just some of the impressive examples of the national offer of river beaches. However, keep following us for more tips and suggestions, and make your summer unforgettable! Take the opportunity to also read: Escapadinha no Douro: discover the exclusive refuges , Find out how to plan your holiday budget and Camping sites: 5 ideas for an adventure in nature
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Casa do Santo - Wine & Tourism is located in the historical village of Provesende , a new and exclusive agro-tourism retreat , situated in the heart of Douro. According to the information that reached the SUPERCASA Notícias , this manor house, built in the 18th century and with more than 100 years of history, is surrounded by an extensive vineyard and a green landscape , assuming itself as an architectural project, carefully integrated, where you can enjoy a cozy environment, perfect to relax and enjoy the most genuine attributes of the Douro. Through an elegant and modern decoration, without neglecting its history and past, in this place an atmosphere of natural beauty and full of tranquillity was created, perfect to be in harmony with nature. The current owners, José António, Maria do Rosário and Nicolau Pinheiro da Veiga, started a Douro and Port DOC wine production project in 2016, having planted in the Quintas vineyards, some of the noblest Portuguese grape varieties, namely Touriga Nacional, Viosinho and Rabigato. They dreamed of recovering one of the estates houses, transforming it into a unique agro-tourism unit, and so Casa do Santo - Wine & Tourism was born. Rural Tourism in the Douro: the main suggestions If you are looking for an interesting itinerary in the Douro regions, this is the ideal article for you. The beautiful landscapes and typical products leave no one indifferent, being a perfect destination for those looking to deepen their knowledge about the national heritage. To make the most of the trip and get to know all the corners of this region, we suggest a two or three-day stay, which can begin with the Douro Wine Region. Tourism in Douro is extremely linked to rural traditions, for its wine and agriculture cultures , so, if you want to dive into the roots of this region, the ideal is to take part in a visit to one of the several vineyards, or do a wine tasting. You can also visit the Douro Museum, to which you can then add a visit to the footbridge over the river, where you will have access to breathtaking views. And dont forget to try the gastronomy and sweets, of which you will certainly be a fan! If you are looking for inspiration for your holidays we recommend: Discover how to plan your holiday budget , Camping: 5 ideas for a nature adventure and 4 must-visit Portuguese cities
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction With the arrival of the heat and the approach of summer, plans for holidays also begin, which can be in Portugal or abroad, close to home or in various parts of the country. And so begins the headache of financial management of the budget available for this purpose, while ensuring the usual expenses. However, you can enjoy your well deserved holidays in total relaxation, as SUPERCASA Notícias brings you today some tips to ensure these situations. It is common for unforeseen expenses to overrun your budget or change the plans initially established, leading you to have to resort to savings or reformulate your accounts. Here are some tips to prevent this from happening! Plan your holiday and anticipate your expenses To begin with it is fundamental to know exactly where you intend to spend your money, since this way you will have greater control over your expenses and therefore planning your holidays in advance is crucial to achieve that stability and security. By planning your destination, k nowing the days you will spend away and having an idea of the estimated amounts , you will know how to manage your budget, being able to allocate certain amounts to certain activities. Furthermore, you will avoid making thoughtless excesses, which could lead you to a vulnerable situation for the rest of the month. Another important reason for planning is to know how much money you will have available not only for your holidays but, above all, for your current expenses , such as water, electricity, food and other unforeseen events that may arise. This way you will be able to avoid slipping in your budget and be able to set your goals in the right way, without leaving anything behind. Monitor your spending To help you meet your goal, why not use an app or keep track of all your expenses? This way you can have more control over the money you still have left, leaving you room for manoeuvre for the following month. Get informed, ask for suggestions and take advantage of your friends advice The surprise factor is always fun, however, it might not be so fun if you arrive in a place and all the average prices are way above your budget. Before you travel, make sure you know the prices in your destination , and for that you should get information, either on the internet or with friends who have already made the same trip, and make a list with an estimate of what you are going to spend, so that you can save the most. Extra tips to help you save! Choose to have your meals at home. We are not saying that you cannot, one day or another, go to a restaurant or try the local gastronomy of your destination, but if you want to save during your holidays, the ideal is to opt for home-cooked meals, making a smart management of your trips to the restaurant. Take advantage of all the discounts. There may be last minute promotions that will save you a lot of money, be it on transport, accommodation or meals. Keep an eye out for anything that may have relevance to you and your holiday and activate all possible coupons and promotions to be able to stretch your budget. Avoid using your credit card. The idea is not to create additional expenses that you may have difficulty securing later on, so set your budget, be realistic about your possibilities, and find the right destination according to your financial availability, avoiding the use of credit that may give you a false sense of comfort. Other tips that might interest you: Campsites: 5 ideas for an adventure in nature , Summer sales 2023: find out all the dates
Fonte: Freepik Autor: Redação Data released last Wednesday by INE (National Statistics Institute), show new increases in total revenue in the tourist accommodation sector, which recorded 2.7 million guests and 6.8 million overnight stays in April, corresponding to a growth of 16.6% and 13.8% respectively, compared to 2019. According to the statistical office the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, the Alentejo and the Northern Region were the places where the average income per occupied room recorded the highest values, and in April the average income per occupied room saw a 30% increase year-on-year. And in all tourist accommodation establishments, the average revenue per occupied room reached 105.4€ in April, up 14.7% compared to the same period of 2022 and 29.6% compared to the same month of 2019, being already the highest increase since the pre-pandemic period. Thus, and in the total revenue generated for the month of April, it corresponds to 497.1 million euros of total income and 373.6 million related to room revenue. In SUPERCASA Notícias you have access to the hot topics of the present time. Read more: Opinion: Property purchases cool down while competition increases or Emigrants will be taxed the same as residents
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction This month, which brought with it another holiday that allowed many people a few extra days off, is ideal for a getaway through the lands of our country . So, we suggest you take the opportunity to discover new destinations in Portugal , which are points of interest and great attraction and that will certainly delight you. It is possible that you already know about the four suggestions that we bring you here today and, for lack of time or inspiration, never actually made that journey. But, with the help of SUPERCASA Notícias , you will receive the incentive you needed to get on your way and visit these captivating places! Check in the list below the places you really must visit! Tavira Perfect for those who like beach, culture and diversity, Tavira gathers points of interest that you will really have to visit in order to live the full experience. Located on the Algarve coast, you will have the best of all worlds. You can choose between a day well spent visiting the town or staying all day long sunbathing on one of the many beaches of the region. If you choose the first option, you will get to know a city with an ancient essence, crossed by the banks of the River Gilão. The ideal thing to do is to wander the old streets and stop for lunch, including the typical gastronomy of this part of the Algarve, and then, on the outer bank of the Ria Formosa, take a small tourist train or any other means of transport of your choice to discover Cabanas de Tavira, the Castle of Tavira or, right next to the castle, the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo. If you fancy a day at the beach, we recommend Praia da Ilha de Tavira , a magical place that can only be reached by ferry, or Praia do Barril, where besides its cosy restaurants you can also visit its mini museum. Vila Viçosa This very interesting Alentejo town has a rich cultural heritage that will enchant you with its scenery. Known as the princess of Alentejo, you can visit the well preserved archaeological remains. Take the opportunity to visit the available monuments with your children, as this is a destination of great interest for the little ones, who will learn more about the history of this place. And there are plenty of museums too! So, to make the most of your visit, we suggest you to visit the Marble Museum, the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa and the ex-libris of the region, the Castle of Vila Viçosa . One of the advantages of visiting Vila Viçosa, besides the architecture, heritage and places of interest, is certainly the local cuisine, which you will love to taste! The Alentejo cuisine is full of treasures, which you should try in one of the many typical restaurants in the town. Bragança A historical yet modern city, Bragança will offer you an immense diversity of places to explore ! This is an extremely well kept city, where the social life is intense and you will be able to enjoy, not only the quieter programmes, but also dynamic and fun activities . To begin with, the must-see point of reference and the one to start your visit will be its historic centre, which, taking the form of a triangle, includes the Cathedral Square, the Citadel and the Green Corridor of the Fervença River . This visit should take you at least one full day. But if youre still feeling energetic and inspired, climb up to the walls of Bragança castle and take a trip to the Iberian Mask and Costume Museum. On the way back, get into a more contemporary mood and visit the works of Bordalo II that can be found all over the place. To live this experience to the full, visit the local establishments and try the typical regional gastronomy , where the Milanese Steak, the aromatic stews and the famous honey sausage are kings! Nazaré If you are a fan of surfing, you are probably already familiar with this Portuguese town in the district of Leiria . But for the more curious and adventurous who have not had the opportunity to visit it yet, it is important to pay a visit to the region where you can get to know not only its local culture but, above all, its famous big waves, its welcoming beaches and its community spirit ! The best known point that you should really visit is Sítio da Nazaré , from where you can enjoy one of the best views over the beach and the town and which you can access by taking the funicular, which works as an extensive lift to make descents and ascents easier. Another suggestion is Praia do Norte, where you can see the world-famous giant waves and where international surf championships are held. This is the perfect destination for those looking for a full day packed with beach, with countless options to choose from. But we recommend that you dont leave without visiting the towns restaurants, where you can enjoy fish and seafood-based dishes such as Caldeirada, typically prepared with fish and seafood from the region, or the dried horse mackerel that can be found anywhere in the town at the stalls of the traditional sellers of the seven skirts. Check the properties of these localities through SUPERCASA and continue to follow our news .
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction With holidays approaching, the usual questions of the summer months arise: now where do I go? The obvious choices are often to holiday on the beach, in the pool and at resorts and water parks, where monotony can easily arise, despite the well-deserved rest that these places provide. However, if youre looking for a different, challenging and ideal programme so that kids and grown-ups leave with a smile on their face, camping is certainly an option to consider. It is, in fact, a growing trend, given its economic viability and proximity to nature. It is a sport that allows direct contact with the earths resources, and can be practised anywhere, whether in your garden or in a space designed for this purpose. It is important, before you hit the road, to plan your destination well. Research the most attractive places for this type of holiday and design a route that will allow you to get to know not only the place of your stay, but also the surrounding areas, thus bringing together a set of unlimited options that will make you disconnect from the usual booking of rooms or booked hotels. You can also simply take your car and decide where you are going to stay, bearing in mind that many of the forests in Portugal are protected areas. Below, we suggest some destinations: 1. Cerdeira Park, in Peneda Gerês Inserted in the National Park of Peneda-Gerês, this magnificent place, surrounded by rich flora, meadows and woods, will offer you a protected and charming place to stay. However, it doesnt stop there, being ideal for families looking for dynamic activities integrated into their stay. You can go canoeing, climbing, target shooting or even take part in a tea and honey tasting in the region - if you fancy a less radical programme. The trees are prepared with tents that can accommodate up to two people and you can take your pets, without leaving anyone behind. 2. Parque Rural de Campismo e Caravanismo de Mourilhe, in Douro With a privileged location, next to the Douro River and welcomed by the Montemuro Mountains, this park is unique in the region, so if you are looking for a complete experience, which combines a stay in nature with a visit to the Douro, this is the ideal place to explore. There will be few moments of monotony in this park and you can take advantage of the picnic area, the various ping-pong tables, the gym and the areas set aside for traditional games. And in case of an emergency, theres a medical centre, toilets and a convenience store where you can stock up on essentials. Whether in a tent or caravan - or even one of the six bungalows with kitchenette and balcony available - youll have a five-star stay! 3. Mil Regos Camping, in Ericeira Also known as Ericeira Camping, this jovial campsite is perfect to stay and discover all the potentialities of the municipality. A few meters from the beach, where you can spend the whole day and at the end return to your tent or caravan, it is the perfect place for those who want to get away from the usual city life, since you will get in touch with the quiet life of the parish community. If you feel bored, you can take advantage of the sports and leisure areas, as well as the restaurant and laundry services. For the more radical and adventurous, why not take a surfing lesson at the school that is available nearby? 4. Colina do Sol Camping, in São Martinho do Porto As the name suggests, this campsite is located on top of a cliff facing the ocean, offering not only a pleasant sea view but, above all, an endless range of water activities. The park is equipped with bathing areas that allow covered and heated balneotherapy, as well as childrens pools that will delight the little ones immensely. And after the baths, you can always go and play a round of golf or benefit from the evening entertainment available in this park. The big difference between this place and the others is that you wont have to bring any tent, as you will have several bungalows available with all the necessary amenities for your stay and in style. 5. Salema Eco Camp, in the Algarve This suggestion of glamping - glamorous camping - will leave you captivated by the biodiversity and leisure activities the surrounding area has to offer. Full of nooks and crannies to discover, this wonderful park offers yoga classes, massages and holistic therapies that will bring you into deep communion with nature. And to sweeten your mouth and fill your stomach after one of these relaxing sessions, you can enjoy the park restaurant, with Mediterranean-inspired food that will take you on a journey of flavours. If you are a fan of handicrafts, the park has a shop with eco-concept products that you can buy during your stay, so that after your holidays you can take a souvenir that will remind you of the harmony experienced in this characteristic place. Have you decided where to go this summer? Let yourself go with our suggestions and start planning your holidays now, taking the opportunity to rest in deep harmony with nature and with all that it has to offer. For more suggestions, check SUPERCASA Notícias
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The Associação da Hotelaria de Portugal (AHP), in collaboration with an international booking website, prepared a study on the number of stays in 2022, the European Accommodation Barometer 2022, revealing promising data for the tourism sector. The study reveals that the evolution was positive in recent months, giving the national hotel sector a positive forecast for the future. The Hotelaria de Portugal Association commented on the subject that 85 per cent of Portuguese respondents (a figure much higher than the European average: 70 per cent), said the evolution over the last six months was good, or very good, as well as the increase in occupancy rates, particularly in the last six months of the year . And, in general, the Portuguese market shows an upward trend, with a tendency for an improvement in the financial situation. However, despite these forecasts, AHP adds that 46% of respondents still state that they will only resume pre-pandemic levels between the 1st half of 2023 and the 2nd half of 2024 , despite the fact that 54% of respondents have already reached 2019 levels. According to the report data, there is significant concern about the energy crisis caused by the war in Ukraine , with the costs of this raw material proving to be one of the biggest challenges, and also a general economic concern about taxes and competition, although there is also emphasis on positives such as digital transformation. Sustainability is a growing concern There has been preparation by the industry to move towards more sustainable practices , along with digital transformation, with European hoteliers becoming more up-to-date. However, there has also been registered dissatisfaction about the result of the efforts applied in this mission (13% of respondents), although more than half have an opposite opinion, with a record of a good or very good digital transformation. On the other hand, in Portugal, almost 70% of hoteliers attach great importance to government policies , highlighting their influence on businesses in the sector, in addition to the beneficial return that is expected. Read also: Tourism revenues in February increased 60.3%