When you think of Portugal it is almost impossible not to think of Port. But in reality that is only a small part of what Portugal has to offer. Of course you know this and you always wonder why it doesn't get more attention? But deep down you are grateful more people haven't descended on the best of Portugal. The Algarve may be considered the Cancun of Europe but like Cancun there are spots that are great. Dear friends who have a vacation home in Salema insisted I come over for a visit and I was always taught it is rude to refuse such a lovely offer. Besides, this area was once considered the edge of the world. It is full of gorgeous beaches with soft sand, fresh simple food right from the sea, and dramatic coast lines that conjure up images of exploration. It was a great way to instantly feel like I'd been away for weeks. But I'm not one to lie around in the sun all day so we drove north. Portugal is relatively small so driving from the South to the north is possible in less than a day. It also helps that the highways are very well maintained. To help break up the drive we stopped in the UNESCO heritage site of Evora to see the charming town and have a gorgeous lunch with views of the ancient Roman aqueducts. Rested and refueled it was time to get on the road to make it into the Douro Valley. Of course you are familiar with this area because you always see wines from this region on your favorite restaurant's wine list. Probably the most unique wine landscape in the world with its terraced fields. It is hypnotic and best viewed from the private boat that will take you up the river. The wine is unique and such a great value that it was hard not to buy all of it. After a few days of delicious wine, food, olive oil, and spa treatments you too will decide it is time to move on for fear of not being able to leave...ever. So off we went to the charming city of Porto. With its classic architecture and modern bridges the city of Porto feels old and new. It's no wonder JK Rowling felt so inspired here. But this historically rich city isn't resting on its history like so much of Europe. With some modern buildings and bits like Janet Echelman's installation of her amazing SHE CHANGES sculpture along the coastline you can tell there is something new and modern happening here in Porto. Of course one thing that every section of Portugal seems to have an abundance of is delicious food. From simple fresh fish to their amazing black pork, one thing is for certain you'll want to leave those slim fit pants at home. If you have decided yet when you are going to visit, sit back and watch the slide show below and then let's find a date that works for you.
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