Portugal Guide

From the Algarve’s swathes of sandy beaches to the vineyards of the Douro River Valley, Portugal is many things to many people. Whether you’re exploring the old-fashioned traditions of village life, discovering the hidden beaches and wind-whipped cliffs of the Parque Natural da Arrábida, or wandering the chic streets of Lisbon, you’ll find something to suit all tastes.

Retreat to your sprawling villa set among olive groves and vineyards, away from the hustle and bustle of the coast yet within striking distance of the region’s best beaches. Enjoy a round of championship golf on one of the many courses right on your doorstep, or head to a private stables to ride local Lipizzaner horses through the foothills.

By day, soak up the sun by the pool, delighting in sweet seclusion and savouring the sensational views over the valleys and ocean beyond. By night, have one of Lisbon’s most celebrated chefs prepare dinner on the terrace, indulging in a gastronomic demonstration of some of the region’s most celebrated produce - succulent fish and fresh-caught calamari swimming in garlic.

Portugal, a small country located on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over centuries. It is believed that the first human settlers arrived in Portugal around 5000 BC, and by 1500 BC, the region was home to various Celtic tribes.

In 218 BC, the Romans conquered Portugal and brought with them their language, culture, and religion. The Romans built roads, bridges, and aqueducts, which can still be seen today, and their influence can also be seen in the Portuguese language, which is a combination of Latin and local dialects.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Visigoths took control of Portugal, followed by the Moors in 711 AD. The Moors, who were Muslims from North Africa, ruled Portugal for over 500 years and left a lasting impact on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and culture.

In the 12th century, Portugal gained its independence from the Moors and became a kingdom under the rule of King Afonso I. The country prospered under the rule of King Afonso III, who expanded its territory and established a strong navy. However, in 1383, a crisis arose when King Ferdinand I died without a male heir, leading to a civil war that lasted for over a decade. The war was eventually won by King John I, who founded the House of Aviz dynasty.

During the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal became a dominant force in exploration and trade. Portuguese explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan discovered new sea routes and established trading posts in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, bringing great wealth and power to the country.

In 1580, Portugal was under Spanish rule after King Philip II of Spain inherited the Portuguese throne. This union lasted for 60 years until Portugal’s independence was restored in 1640, after a successful revolution led by King John IV.

The 18th century saw Portugal’s decline as a major power, with economic and political instability. This led to the Napoleonic Wars in the 19th century, where Portugal was invaded by French troops. However, with the help of the British, Portugal was able to resist and maintain its independence.

In the 20th century, Portugal went through a period of political turmoil, with the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic in 1910. In 1974, a peaceful revolution called the Carnation Revolution overthrew the authoritarian regime and established a democratic government.

Today, Portugal is a modern and thriving country, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Its rich history, influenced by various cultures and civilizations, has shaped it into the beautiful and unique country it is today.