Occupying an enviable position at the south-west corner of Europe facing the Atlantic, Portugal has a rich history of cultural interaction and trade that has developed a unique ethos. The astounding natural beauty of the country will captivate you with its cinematic landscape, and you’ll be overawed by the wealth of cultural treasures that this idyllic region has to offer. From the thriving nightlife in Lisbon to the wealth of golfing opportunities in the Algarve – and don’t even get us started on the wine in Porto – it’s no wonder that Portugal is one of the top destinations for  luxury holidays.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more photogenic country – your Instagram feed will be full of the bright colours that make up the Portuguese landscape and architecture. From the blue sea, golden sand and red sandstone of the Algarve coastline to the bright colours of the fairy-tale Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal will ensure that your holiday is vibrant and full of life. The capital, Lisbon, is a cultural gem, replete with cute, brightly-painted plazas and dramatic architecture from the modern Calouste Gulbenkian Museum to the medieval Belem Tower – designated one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.

Porto in the north of the country makes for a wonderful city break. Think quaint yet vibrant city streets, delectable wines as well as a vivacious nightlife scene accompanied by river vistas. Perfect for exploring couples and parents who’ve managed to organise a weekend off from the kids, this award-winning city (yup, you read that correctly) will exceed all of your European expectations.

Centuries of proximity to Spain and North Africa have left their tangible impression on Portuguese cuisine and architecture, and this can be felt particularly in the Algarve region in the south. Famed worldwide for its glorious beaches, vibrant nightlife and exceptional golf courses, the Algarve is also a treasure trove of history from the Romans to the Moors to the Renaissance, perfect to explore with the whole family.

If you’re of a more athletic persuasion, the Algarve is undoubtedly the place to go. With more than 30 golf courses under its belt designed by famous names like Sir Henry Cotton and Ronald Fream, it’s one of the best places for the sport in the world. Every course guarantees a stunning backdrop as you play, from the hills to the sea to the sky, and no two courses are the same, assuring you a unique and unforgettable experience. Ideal for golfing groups and corporate affairs, a leisurely 18-holes here is bound to trump any British boardroom… that handshake is as good as done.

Of course the ultimate purpose of a holiday is relaxation, and Portugal offers the very best opportunities in that department as well. The south of the country is lined with heavenly golden sand beaches, with the longest being Praia da Falesia in the Algarve region. Thanks to the blissful sea breezes that roll in from the Atlantic, the temperature never soars to uncomfortable levels, creating the perfect atmosphere to rest and bask in the sun’s rays.

WINGED BOOTS WISDOM
 

Portugal contains both the westernmost and south-westernmost points in Mainland Europe, so don’t miss out on a trip to Cape Roca near Lisbon and Cape St Vincent in the Algarve, near the town of Sagres for some top-notch Instagram content.