Madeira Island is a veritable Eden, a verdant oasis in the deep blue Atlantic. From sheer cliffs and rocky beaches to rugged green mountains shrouded in mist, this unique destination boasts a welcoming subtropical climate and an abundance of breathtaking natural beauty.

Discovered in the 15^th century, Portuguese settlers cultivated vineyards and banana plantations in the rich volcanic soil. The bustling capital Funchal is located in the sunny south of the island, boasting a wide selection of cultural activities, lush botanical gardens and stunning views.

For an authentic Madeira experience, take a levada walk though the unspoilt landscape of ancient Laurisilvia forests and indigenous flora. Swim in the inviting natural pools around the island and bask in the sun on rocky beaches. Miles of golden sand can be found on neighbouring Porto Santo island.

The wonderful local gastronomy includes fresh fish and espetadas (meat grilled on fragrant laurel skewers) as well as a wide selection of tropical fruit. Savour a honey and lemon infused poncha for a refreshing summertime drink, or enjoy a glass of Madeira wine, which dates back to the Age of Discoveries.

Madeira is an enchanting year-round destination with warm summers and mild winters. Activities on land and sea include hiking and adventure sports as well as whale watching, fishing and sailing. The colourful Flower Festival in spring and the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks are definite highlights of the events calendar.

Visit our Madeira Web and Madeira Live websites for an in-depth holiday guide to the attractions, events and hotels on Madeira.

Central Portugal is the green heart of the country, blessed with a diverse landscape from fantastic beaches to enchanting mountain villages and the rugged slopes of Serra da Estrela, the highest peak on mainland Portugal.

Distinguished Coimbra is home to Portugal’s oldest university, boasting a magnificent 13^th century library and some of the most beautiful Baroque architecture in the country. The historical towns of Viseu and Castelo Branco are worth a visit, as well as Aveiro, known as the ‘Portuguese Venice’ for its canals, gondola-shaped boats and picturesque lagoons. Golden beaches and charming fishing villages can be found heading south along the coast. Historic Fátima is Portugal’s most famous pilgrimage site and contains a vast shrine with a beautiful basilica.

Visitors will not tire of the spectacular views from the Serra da Estrela. Source of the Mondego and Zêzere rivers, this natural park encompasses the largest area of protected forests in Portugal, filled with crystalline lakes and hiking trails. The valleys and ridges transform through the seasons: in winter, the snow-covered slopes are popular with skiers and families, while in spring and summer, the stunning scenery forms a wondrous backdrop for adventure sports including rock climbing and paragliding. Autumn heralds a dazzling display of colour through the mountains.

Cultural attractions in Central Portugal include cathedrals, museums, art collections and Roman ruins, as well as defensive fortresses along the Spanish border dating back to the 11-13^th centuries. This region is also famous for its traditional festivals, tasty leitão assado (roast pork) and handmade artisanal cheeses, especially queijo da serra, considered Portugal’s best.

Click here to find 4 and 5-star hotels in the Central Portugal region.

Extending across a third of Portuguese territory but home to only 5 percent of its population, the bucolic Alentejo region encompasses a vast landscape of olive and oak trees, grand agricultural estates and picturesque vineyards. Through the seasons, the open plains are painted in a palette of colours and the summer sun bakes the golden fields of wheat and sunflowers.

The main cities are located in the interior, including Évora, a World Heritage site famous for its Temple of Diana, and Portalegre, renowned for its intricate handmade tapestries. Historic Beja boasts a commanding position over the Alentejo plains and has a rich Roman and Moorish heritage. Unique attractions include majestic castles and elaborate religious architecture as well as the megalithic Almendres Cromlech and neolithic Gruta do Escoural.

Local gastronomy is simple and satisfying, based on the key ingredients of pork, bread and herbs. Cured presunto ham from black Iberian pigs are a local speciality and Portugal’s best olive oil is produced in this area, as well as a number of outstanding wines. The Alentejo’s cork oaks provide half of the world’s cork production.

Although predominantly arid, the region has numerous lakes, including Alqueva dam, the largest man-made reservoir in Western Europe. Don’t miss the wonderful Alentejo coast, which is dotted with surf beaches and secluded coves.

Click here for recommended hotels in the Alentejo.

The most relaxing holidays are about simple pleasures. In the Algarve, it’s the sunshine, seafood and sandy beaches that make this region stand out as a perennial holiday destination.

Locals pack the golden beaches of the Algarve in the summer, when the party mood is at its peak. Take your pick from Blue Flag beaches with family-friendly facilities to secluded coves flanked by ochre cliffs. Charming towns boast beautiful Moorish architecture and a lively seaside ambiance, with great nightlife in Portimão, Faro and sophisticated Vilamoura. Golfers will love the championship courses and 5-star resorts along the coast, where you can tee off at a different course every day.

You don’t have to travel far to escape the crowds. Head inland to discover a quieter side of the Algarve, filled with forested hills and picturesque villages, including Monchique and Silves. Feel the wind in your hair on a boat trip through the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and hop off at any of the barrier islands for a splendid seafood lunch and some time out on the sandy beaches. Boats and water taxis depart from the fishing villages of Olhão and Tavira.

A definite highlight of the region is the fresh fish and seafood. Savour some of the delicious local gastronomy including clams, prawns, cataplana (seafood stew) and frango piri-piri (spicy grilled chicken).

Located on the south-western corner of the European continent, the Algarve has a sunny, dry climate with mild water temperatures influenced by Atlantic and Mediterranean conditions. A delightful year-round destination and a perfect escape from cold Northern European winters.

Looking for more holiday information and accommodation? Check out our comprehensive Algarve Destination Guide.