Source: Unsplash Author: Redaction Planning a mini holiday to take advantage of the 1st November bank holiday? Dont worry, we have put together some welcoming destinations for a getaway in Portugal. 2-3 day itineraries combining the weekend with the holiday at the beginning of the week. Itineraries around Portugal: #1 Serra da Estrela - Manteigas Ideal destination for those looking for snow holidays. However, Serra da Estrela has much more than the Torre and ski slope, it is also synonymous with natural beauty of magical spaces such as woods, waterfalls, unique landscapes, river beaches and stunning lakes. In the mountain range of Serra da Estrela is the village of Manteigas with great landscapes in unique natural territory in Portugal. It is an ideal destination to relax and enjoy the good things Portugal has to offer. A region that gathers tranquillity, biodiversity, pure air, thermal waters and regional gastronomy of excellent quality. Enjoy the mountainous view and take the opportunity to take routes and trails through the mountains where you will come across superb landscapes surrounded by waterfalls, lakes and caves. An ideal place to breathe fresh air and relieve from all daily stress. #2 Castelo de Paiva The junction between mountains and rivers in the North of the country provides a magnificent destination to enjoy this coming holiday. In the municipality of Aveiro we find this village of Castelo de Paiva with specific characteristics of orography and geography expressed in its landscapes. Full of history and culture has several places to visit to disconnect for a few days and enjoy a leisure getaway. Near Castelo de Paiva are two villages, Gondarém and Midões. These villages are made of schist and are surrounded by customs and landscapes of the slopes and the Douro river valley. The viewpoint and swing of Monte de São Gens, a unique place in this region with a swing overlooking the Douro River and great to enjoy the most spectacular sunset. Finally visit the Paiva walkways on the banks of the Paiva River, they are 8 km that provide unbelievable landscapes and a route that will fill your soul and clear your mind. #3 Elvas This city is known as the largest fortress in the world and one of the most emblematic of the Alentejo. Right on the border with Spain, but respetively Badajoz, it is considered by UNESCO border and garrison city of Elvas and its fortifications as a World Heritage Site. A historic centre surrounded by Islamic, medieval and seventeenth-century walls denominates fortress town has to offer you tourist sites in account for this weekend. Take the opportunity to visit the Republic Square, Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, Alcáçova, Castela de Elvas Municipal Market, Casa das Barcas, Paiol da Conceição and especially the Walls of Elvas. The latter is the ideal opportunity to be dazzled by the best views and let yourself go back in time. A calm and peaceful city for a long weekend getaway.
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Post Office Travel Money , a UK courier company, collects data annually that compares costs in relation to holidays in European cities for UK holidaymakers. They analyse and evaluate costs of the destination city overall and for specific items such as accommodation , meals and historical and cultural attractions. This barometer largely supports citizens to see in advance which destinations are the most cost-effective according to the data gathered for planning their trips. 12 European tourist cities were compared, Athens and Lisbon being the ones with the most satisfactory values for an autumn rest in Europe . Lisbon , the Portuguese capital stands out for its value for money, approximately 252 euros (218 pounds), placing the city in 2nd place in the raking . However, they highlight the 21% increase in accommodation costs, a year-on-year increase of €48.55. 12 topics were taken into account to calculate the price of the trip, including drinks , meals , accommodation , sightseeing and transport . The study took into account two nights in a three-star hotel, with meals costing around €47 for two people, plus transport and cultural entertainment costs. In addition to these expenses, they mentioned the excellent Portuguese weather in the city of Lisbon , with milder temperatures ideal for discovering the citys hidden corners. The cost of living in Lisbon is not exactly cheaper for the Portuguese , however, in terms of tourism it is considered one of the ideal destinations for those looking for a cheap getaway.
In celebration of National Castle Day, we have selected some medieval villages and towns to spend a weekend and discover the history behind each of these places. Register the suggestions we have for you and take a peek and make an itinerary to some regions of our country. # Mértola This village is known as the village-museum of Alentejo, a walled village by the river Guadiana, belongs to the district of Beja, Baixo Alentejo. Its origins date back to the Neolithic period, it once became one of the most important river ports in the Mediterranean and it is still possible to visit monuments of great historical and cultural value that will take you back in time. The most outstanding monuments of this small town that are worth a visit are: Mértola Castle; Mértolas Mother Church S.Francisco Convent; Couraça Tower; Clock Tower; Mértolas Museum. Besides these beautiful monuments, the whole historic centre of Mértola inside the walls we find the oldest part of this village with traditional houses that make us travel to the medieval times. We must remember that Mértola is located in Baixo Alentejo, which leads us to an Alentejo gastronomy with particular characteristics of the village. # Penela A typically Portuguese village in the district of Coimbra, in the province of Beira Litoral. Ideal destination to relax a little with family or friends, Penela has a range of routes and routes for adventurers, it is ideal to go on a journey of discovery through limestone or schist paths and surrounded by nature. This village hides within itself some of the most wonderful places to visit, the best tip is to ask the locals for information, who knows your origins better than they do? You can count on waterfalls, trails, and limestone geoforms, dominated by caves and algares. Suggestions of places to visit: Penela Castle, surrounded by a wall from the time of the Christian reconquest, has free entrance and you can walk on the walls and enjoy the best views; Pedra da Ferida waterfall; Village centre; Espinhal Mountain in Penela - Enjoy the best panoramic view from the Espinhal swing; Louçainha River Beach - A great river beach with a restaurant where you will find typical regional food, the wild boar; Through this beach you will also find a trail to the Cascata da Pedra da Ferida; # Lindoso Located in the heart of the Peneda do Gerês National Park, in the municipality of Ponte da Barca we find the village of Lindoso. Its main feature are the more than 50 granaries that remind us of the community tradition of the oldest populations of the mountain, being the largest set of granaries in the Iberian Peninsula. Take the opportunity to walk along the various trails and paths covered in nature and with breathtaking scenery. What to visit? Lindoso Castle - the subject of great myths and legends, admission is free and there is a view of the granaries; Espigueiros do Lindoso - one of Portugals greatest treasures; Castle Cruise; Cross at Largo do Destro; Main Church or São Mamede Church; Fonte da Tornada which supplies the village wash-house. These last three are part of Lindosos heritage that deserve your attention as you stroll along the medieval cobblestones. History lovers, this escapade is excellent to enjoy a weekend with family or friends, combining the best that these towns and villages have to offer, culture, history and family moments. And have you already chosen your next destination?
Source: Unsplash Author: Redaction Used in medieval times as a refuge in the course of wars, to delineate the territories where the watch remained on the ramparts, or even, to be the Kings Home. Castles had various functions in the past, and today, their main one is to show us their propounding history, passed from century to century. The National Castles Day is celebrated on the 7th of October. Since 1984, prior to that year, it was celebrated on the first Saturday of the month. In commemoration of this day, we will show you the most beautiful castles of our historic country. # Guimarães Castle In the cradle of our country, there is this historical landmark in the shape of a Castle. It was built in 968 AD, by the Galician Countess Mumadona. Its initial project was to be a refuge due to the constant wars with Vikings and Muslims. # Montemor-o-velho Castle Considered the oldest castle in Portugal, this 9th century proponent shelter was conquered in 848 by Ramiro I of the Asturias and Abbot João of the Lorvão Monastery. Of great geostrategic importance, this castle was remodelled by the Infantas Teresa and Mafalda, giving the presentation we know today. # Convent of Christ, Tomar It dates back to the 12th century and it is considered UNESCO heritage. Founded by Gualdim Pais during the reign of King Afonso Henriques, today we can appreciate the 16th century architecture of the time, where the structures were oriented for refuge, training, housing and even had a religious focus. # Óbidos Castle As guardian of the village of Óbidos, it appears to us on top of a hill, being at the time of its construction a great strategic point as defence. It was home of the Queen Dna Leonor, the much talked about Monarch with a heart of gold, considered one of the richest Queens in Europe during her reign. The Castle that today tells us many stories in its narrow streets, was built in the prehistoric era, since historians cant find references to its construction, occupied successively by various armies. # Marvão Castle In the district of Portalegre, we find the highest refuge of the times of the Kings. Very close to the affluent of Tejo river, it was very coveted in the beginning of time, creating a greed for several armies. At the moment it is considered National Monument since 1922, still reminding traces of Roman times. Which is your favourite Castle?
Source: World travel awards || Pexels Author: Redaction The 29th European edition of the World Travel Awards returned on Sunday, the 2nd, in Mallorca. The purpose of the event is to reward the best destinations at European level and Lisbon stood out by receiving several awards, as it did in the last edition. The categories are based on all the important points of tourism in the destination, from its location, offers to accommodation or tourism entities, selected in online voting. The 30 awards directed to Portugal were: Best country for tourist destination: Portugal Best city: Lisbon Best city for city break: Lisbon Best island: Madeira Best adventure tourism attraction: Passadiços do Paiva (Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark) Best city hotel: Corinthia Hotel Lisbon Best classic hotel: Olissipo lapa Palace Hotel Best Conservation Company: Parques de Sintra - Monte da Lua Best Design Hotel: The Vine Hotel Best restaurant hotel: Vila Joya Hotel Restaurant Best airline magazine: Up Magazine (TAP) Best Luxury Leisure Resort: Conrad Algarve Best Boutique Hotel Operator: Amazing Evolution Management Best National Tourism Organisation: Turismo de Portugal Best Airline Flying to Africa: TAP Best Airline Flying to South America: TAP Best national tourism authority website: VisitPortugal This event will follow the World Travel Awards World Final on 11 November in Oman.
Source: Pexels || Green Destinations Author: Redaction Green Destinations awarded a Portuguese city as a sustainable destination and green city. The municipality that belongs to the district of Aveiro is well known for its umbrellas as decoration of the beautiful streets. Águeda entered the TOP 100 of the best environmentally friendly destinations. This award distinguishes cities for their environmental practices applied in tourism and culture, and the city was mentioned as a green destination. The award ceremony will take place on 29 September in Athens, where the Mayor, Jorge Almeida, will proudly represent this sustainable Portuguese city. Águeda has a prominent international image, a brand of quality and good-doing.
Source: Pexels Author: Redaction The second half of September brings the beginning of autumn. The season that opens doors to cold, wind and rain, also manages to provide moments of leisure, making unique trips to special places, brightening up your weekends with sightseeing. But while the winter cold doesnt arrive, check the suggestions that SUPERCASA has for you in this beginning of autumn: #1 Golegã, Santarém Santarém is known as the Caldeirão land of summer, but at this time of the year, in the middle of autumn, it becomes a very appealing town. Golegã is a town in the district of Santarém and from November 4th to 13th it will host the eagerly awaited Golegã Fair. #2 Oporto, Douro River One of the most popular tourism in our country, is cruises on the Douro River, where there are several companies that provide this type of service, delighting tourists with the views of the vineyards on the banks of the river. As it is a very rich area of activities in this area, you can also visit the wine cellars of the region, where in some of them you can taste the products of the wine companies. There are also packages with all the above mentioned activities in a single sales package format. #3 Nazaré The city of the Big Waves, started last month the high season to watch the biggest waves in Portugal, ending only in March 2023. You can on your weekend getaway, fit in with the WSL Nazaré Tow Surfing Challenge event, where the biggest surfing championship always promises good waves - although there is still no set date. #4 Algarve The southernmost area of Portugal thrives on beach tourism, however, it has many more tourist offers to offer on a short getaway. Many companies have boat trip services to places along the coast, such as the boat trip to the caves of Ponta da Piedade or the caves of Benagil . Paragliding and dolphin watching are also popular activities. With the beginning of autumn, the trend of tourist travel is decreasing, but our country has an enormous versatility of destinations that we can enjoy all year round. What will be your next destination?
Source: Pexels Author: Redaction Barceló Angra Marina, an urban resort with 130 rooms located by the sea and marina of Angra do Heroísmo, is the partner hotel of the trail running competition Azores Bravos Trail 2022, according to a statement sent to SUPERCASA Notícias. For lovers of this nature sport, this hotel is the ideal place to stay, offering all the infrastructures to provide moments of leisure and rest. Surrounded by a city declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, where the cultural offerings and landscapes remain in the memory, the Barceló Angra Marina has the Monte Brasil restaurant, for guests to discover the flavours of Azorean cuisine, and the Bahía Bar, the ideal place to enjoy delicious cocktails with a panoramic view of the sea. In addition, the Barceló Angra Marina also has a wellness area with spa and gym, where athletes can prepare for the 15 km, 30 km, 60 km and 95 km races. We decided to associate ourselves with this sporting event, which takes place on Terceira Island, because we consider it important to get involved with the community and local initiatives. This event is very important for publicising the Azores as a nature destination par excellence and we believe it has great potential to attract tourists to Terceira Island, says Xavier Marsal, director of the Barceló Angra Marina. As a partner hotel of the Azores Bravos Trail event, the Barceló Angra Marina has a promocode - BarceloTrail22 - which gives a 10% discount on registration, which can be done on the website. This initiative is organised by the Terceira Island Athletics Association, in partnership with the municipalities of Angra do Heroísmo and Praia da Vitória.
Source: Pexels Author: Redaction It is in the district of Setúbal that the Palmela municipality party organisation launches the Festival of the Harvests event. The long-awaited festive tradition of the grape harvests in the area, which calls thousands of curious people, kicks off with Dino Santiago at 10:30 p.m. ending the long two-year wait due to the pandemic, which cancelled all parties and events. The festival has six days dedicated to the theme of oenology and in this 59th edition, the municipality has highlighted a programme that will delight all who decide to attend the event. Floats representing agricultural producers from the region will parade through the streets of the municipality, giving a taste of their agricultural production. Rosinha will close the event after the expected harvest parade and the Palmela parish has already made an appeal on the website to those interested in joining the event, not to condition the traffic for bad parking.
Source: Barceló Hotel Author: Redaction Before the return to school, Barceló Hotel Group challenges you to get to know its hotels better and let yourself be carried away by the charms of the Spanish coast and islands, according to a statement sent to SUPERCASA News. If you want to relax and restore your energy for a new start, or enjoy the last days of summer in a dream destination for families with various activities, Barceló Hotel Group has the ideal destinations. A promoter of unforgettable moments, the hotel group suggests 6 hotels to discover neighbouring Spain before returning to school: Barceló Punta Umbría Beach Resort in Punta Umbria, Barceló Isla Canela in Ayamonte, Barceló La Nucía Palms and Barceló La Nucía Hills, located in Alicante, Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort in Costa Teguise, and the Barceló Aguamarina in Mallorca. Barceló Punta Umbría Beach Resort A natural beach paradise that is a dream destination for families With an endless list of benefits for the whole family and a unique location opposite a pristine beach on the Costa de la Luz, the Barceló Punta Umbría Beach Resort is one of the best all-inclusive hotels. Family holidays here are a guaranteed success, not only due to the comfort of the spacious, bright and well-equipped rooms, but also the diversity of the cuisine, which includes 4 buffet restaurants. In addition, there is a wide range of childrens activities on offer, such as the Barcy Club or Laboratorium, Princesses for a day or Mr. Cook. This resort also has sports equipment and programmes, a spa, swimming pools and a uniquely beautiful environment that includes the Enebrales Natural Park and the Marismas del Odiel Biological Reserve. Barceló Isla Canela The best sun in Andalusia Exquisite design with the traditional style of the Andalusian villages of the past, the Barceló Isla Canela is located on the front line of the golden beach on the Costa de la Luz, in the historic municipality of Ayamonte. This hotel has 349 rooms, some with sea views, which stand out for their brightness, comfort and equipment. As far as gastronomy is concerned, the buffet restaurant promises to delight guests with regional dishes. In addition, there is also a Lounge Bar for cocktails and drinks, and a Kiosk-Bar in the wonderful pool and garden. To all this we should also add a childrens club and various sports and leisure activities that the hotel team prepares every week. Barceló La Nucía Peace and quiet with the best views on the Costa Blanca With a warm, bright, Mediterranean concept focused on pleasure and calm, the Barceló La Nucía Palms and Barceló La Nucía Hills hotels, which together form Barceló La Nucía, are located in the city of Alicante. A world reference in architectural sustainability leads this 5-star hotel to stand out for its incredible architecture and interior design inspired by Nordic style. Barceló La Nucía Palms With a sophisticated and bright character, the Barceló La Nucía Palms has an interior design inspired by Nordic style through the use of light wood and neutral tones. The gardens and lush flora, meanwhile, transport guests to the Caribbean. Barceló La Nucía Hills With a similar philosophy, the Barceló La Nucía Hills is a destination to enjoy the privileged surroundings and savour the local cuisine. Its 94 flats with terrace or private garden and its outdoor pool offer a holiday proposal where comfort, rest and calm are guaranteed. In addition, guests can take a dip in the sky at B-Heaven, located on the hotels top floor, where they can dive while admiring the stunning views of the Aitana mountain range and the sea in the background. Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort Sporty and active spirit Located on El Ancla beach on the Costa Teguise, the renovated Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort has been built to find the balance between a seaside holiday hotel, sport and active entertainment. A resort that meets the demand of families, friends and couples who want to find a balance between wellness, sport, a wide range of gastronomic and leisure spaces. Among other facilities, it has a 50 m Olympic-sized heated pool, gym, professional cycling centre, as well as direct access to the beach for open water swimming or other water sports such as windsurfing or kitesurfing. Barceló Aguamarina, Majorca Salt, the best ally for the skin With spectacular views and direct access to Cala Ferrera, a beautiful beach of fine white sand and turquoise waters on the east coast of Mallorca, the renovated Barceló Aguamarina is a hotel inspired by the colour of the seawater stones, very similar to the clarity and transparency of the Mediterranean. From the sea comes one of Mallorcas most emblematic products: salt, a natural product that is considered to be one of the best allies for treating and caring for the skin, respiratory tracts and joints. A holiday at the Barceló Aguamarina is synonymous with finding maximum wellness.
Source: Unsplash Author: Redaction The wonderful Lisbon beaches are always a good idea for the summer, however, we present 5 suggestions of fluvial beaches near our capital so you can escape a little from the regular destinations. 1# Ponta dos Corvos Beach Located near Seixal and in the district of Setúbal, this beach is very sought after by families who want to enjoy quality time and safety. The range of facilities on offer seems endless, providing families with the essential support so that everything runs smoothly during their visit. From a picnic area to hygiene facilities (toilets and changing rooms) or the possibility of cooling off with drinks on the bar terrace, this beach is a must go on any bathing trip to be discovered. Although there is no surveillance in the area, the fire station is an acceptable distance away. 2# Samouco Beach With a modern look and a view over the Vasco da Gama Bridge, the famous Samouco beach only made sense to get on the list. The wonderful walkways over the beach guarantee strolls over the entrance to the beach and the amenities on offer ensure the calm and tranquillity that is so sought after in this type of location. The football field, volleyball field and gym equipment are also there to meet the expectations of the more sporty. 3# Moinhos Beach This beach is located in the Alcochete area providing a view over the Tagus River. Its extensive sandy beach offers the possibility for large groups to get together in a day of sun and water. For the practice of water and wind sports - like Kitesurf or Paddlesurf - this beach is one of the most indicated if you like this kind of activities. You can also access the exercise equipment area, also present in the place. There is also a bar and terrace to support the beach and some restaurants nearby where the specialty is fish dishes. 4# Sweet Beach In Salvaterra de Magos you will find this beach resort in contact with nature and very close to Lisbon. Tranquillity reigns here, as it is not usually crowded with tourists. Despite the lack of facilities for visitors, the picnic park provides the essentials for mealtimes and during the bathing season the fire brigade can guarantee the safety of bathers. The margin of the Tagus River is nothing like the sea guaranteed by the low altitude of the water, making the whole space pleasant and quiet. 5# Patacão Beach It is the farthest beach from Lisbon on the list, however, it presents the best conditions for those who like calmer and more relaxed environments. The particularity of the water height is very low, making it a river beach suitable for families with children. The place conveys history due to the fishing activities of years gone by and the abandoned boats and houses that give a touch of antiquity, suiting the place perfectly. Although scarce in amenities and offers, there is an ongoing plan by Alpiarças council to restructure the place. Despite the existence of so many beaches in contact with the Atlantic, Portugal has around 260 river beaches along its territory ready to be discovered and to provide you with another type of tranquillity.
Source: Pexels Author: Redaction Airbnb today unveiled the destinations in Portugal that have broken traditional destination lists and emerged as unexpected settings for the summer, helping hosts to benefit from tourist sprawl and bear the rising cost of living, according to a statement to SUPERCASA. Sul, in the Viseu district, has emerged as one of the most desired destinations after showing the highest growth in searches made by Portuguese guests in the first half of 2022. Other non-traditional inland summer locations, such as Lousã (Coimbra), Alqueva (Évora) and Grândola (Setúbal), showed exponential growth. If we look at the actual bookings, the small coastal and inland towns managed to reach the top. Reguengos de Monsaraz (Évora), Esposende (Braga) and Moncarapacho (Faro) recorded a significant increase in bookings for the same period. New areas highlighted and unique listings, new economic opportunities The emergence of these lesser-known destinations as unexpected new hotspots shows how Airbnb is contributing to help redistribute tourism and create new economic opportunities for hosts at a time when rising inflation has impacted personal finances. Airbnb recently shared a new report that highlighted a strong correlation between rising inflation and new hosts joining Airbnb, as families look to increase their incomes to be able to afford the rising cost of living. In Portugal, recent data also revealed that travellers are looking for nooks and crannies that combine a great location with quirky architecture or unusual spaces. Earnings for one-off stays were higher than for regular stays, with the typical host of a one-off listing in Portugal earning €4800 in 2021. The typical Portuguese host earned just over €4,100 in 2021 by renting out their space on Airbnb. The vast majority of hosts are regular people, and 71% of Portuguese hosts share only one listing on the platform. Almost 70% also say that accommodation is not their main occupation. From Portugal to Spain and vice versa When travelling abroad, the Portuguese opt for destinations bathed by the sea. Spain is definitely the most desired country to travel to for the Portuguese, with eight locations among the 10 most searched destinations: Ibiza, Palma, Santa Cruz de Tenerife or Isla Cristina. Other places that showed the most growth in searches by Portuguese versus 2019 were Greece (Corfu) and Italy (Bari), emerging as some of the latest top 10 most searched destinations abroad by Portuguese. And vice versa, Portuguese destinations also reigned supreme in the Spanish rankings, with Cascais, Portimão, Aveiro or Nazaré showing the highest growth in searches among Spaniards who wanted to travel abroad. For anyone interested in accommodation, there is still time: new listings activated and booked in Q1 2022 are booked faster compared to 2021 and prospective hosts can find out more about how much they could earn by sharing their space on Airbnb through the Whats My Place Worth tool. The interactive tool calculates estimated income based on geography, listing type and uses Airbnbs previous booking data in the area.