Country
Portugal
Duration
14 Days/13 Nights
Travel Type
Self Drive
Portugal is a land of romance. Something intangible hangs in the air that will seduce and enrapture you.
Whether in the country or by the sea, it opens up its palaces, farms and manor houses to romance, giving a big-hearted welcome to anyone who visits.
Light and colour in Portugal are also a source of inspiration: the light and colour of the sea, but also the filtered light in a recess of the Sintra woods, the diffuse hues among the foliage that inspire poets, painters and lovers.
Inclusions
13-night accommodation 4* and 5* hotels (3 nights Areias do Seixo, 3 nights Lisbon, 3 nights Comporta, and 4 nights Vila Nova De Cacela)
17 meals: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner
14-day car rental, Group Fiat 500 manual (NTMM), open roof A/C (or similar). Includes: unlimited mileage, LDW (CDW+THW), TAX, LAF, 0€ EXCESS (SPCDW, SPTHW), pick up in Lisbon airport / drop off at Faro airport
1 romantic dinner, followed by a movie, in Areias do Seixo’s beautiful Garden Dome; 1 picnic basket filled with good delicacies at Areiasdo Seixo
1 “Floral Soul” massage for two at Areias do Seixo SPA and a Jacuzzi bath in your room with floral extracts
Private full Day tour of Lisbon
Private half Day tour of Sintra, including a horse-drawn cart ride in Pena Park
Private full day tour “Nature and Wine” including a catamaran tour, lunch in a local restaurant, and a wine and cheese tasting
5.5-hour boat trip with skipper to the Ria Formosa natural reserve, disembark in 3 different islands, maps, and field guide (snorkelling equipment available during summer)
Exclusions
Flights – Fuel, extra vehicle insurance, GPS, tolls – Optional excursions – Meals and drinks unless indicated – Gratuities – Entrance to monuments and museums unless indicated – Travel insurance – Hotel taxes (paid locally at the hotel) – Any other item not mentioned in the Inclusions.
Additional Information
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS (+$)
EXCLUSIVE WINTE TASTING WITH A VIEW IN LISBON – $425 per person
Lisbon is a wonderful city, known for its brightness and sunny days that make us feel happier, and for its cuisine and wines. This is probably the most unusual and exclusive wine tasting you can imagine doing in a city like Lisbon. We combined views with heritage and added a premium tasting of wines of exceptional quality, paired with Portuguese delicacies. The result cannot be less than exceptional. Enjoy a commented tasting of 5 wines, paired with regional products, in the highest tower of the churches of Lisbon, next to the bells and with a privileged view over the historic area of the city, the interior of the Castle and the Tagus River. Sample 2 white and 2 red wines from different regions and a 10-year Port wine. Learn about the best Portuguese wines from the experts!
Included: Transportation to and from the hotel to the wine tasting location.
Duration: 2.5hrs
PRIVATE LISBON PASTRY COOKING CLASS – $255 per person
For 1.5 hours, you will learn from a professional baker at a local cooking location in Lisbon how to use the ingredients and secrets to make the “Pastel de Nata”, a Portuguese egg tart pastry very common and recognized worldwide. The Pastéis de Nata was born in the 18th century at the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon. At the time, monasteries and convents used huge quantities of egg whites for starching clothes, such as nun’s habits. The egg yolks were used to make pastries and cakes, resulting in the proliferation of the Portuguese sweet recipes. At the end of the class, you will taste your delicious Pastéis de Nata, while drinking a juice or a coffee in a very relaxed environment.
*Not included: Transportation to and from the hotel to the cooking class location
“CATAPLANA” COOKING CLASS AT LUNCHTIME IN A TRADITIONAL FARMHOUSE – $340 per person
This activity takes place in a traditional farmhouse in Tavira, with its own organic production of fruits and vegetables and where we get the most fresh and healthy products to cook our recipes. From 10:30am to 2:30pm, you will learn how to prepare a 3-course menu, with a starter, a traditional fish seafood cataplana dish, and dessert. This experience includes a visit to the market where you’ll select the products to prepare the delicious meal, filled with authentic Algarve flavors. After, lunch will be served outdoors in the farm’s beautiful garden, overlooking the sea (weather permitting).
*Included: Transportation to and from the hotel to the farmhouse, a visit to the market, a cooking class for a 3-course menu, including a starter, Cataplana meal, and dessert (including water, wine, and coffee/ tea).
1
DAY 1 ARRIVAL IN LISBON – AREIAS DO SEIXO (approx. 62km)
Fly to Lisbon and upon your arrival pick up your car from the Europcar car hire desk at the Airport. Drive north of Lisbon for approximately 1 hour along the coast to rediscover balance and relax surrounded by nature in the enchanting retreat, Areias do Seixo. Breathe in nature, enjoy a romantic dinner, followed by a movie in Areias do Seixo’s beautiful Garden Dome. Let yourself be carried away by the magic of a gastronomic experience in a very romantic environment beneath the starlight, surrounded by sand dunes and pine trees; feel yourself snuggled in this unique location. The remaining day is at leisure.
Meals : Dinner
Accommodation : Areias do Seixo Hotel 5*, in a Love Room with terrace (or similar), for 3 nights
2
DAY 2 AREIAS DO SEIXO
Breakfast at the hotel. Delight in the hideaways and secret places of Areias do Seixo with a picnic blanket basket filled with delicacies for a unique and romantic moment for you and your soulmate. Back at the hotel a world of unique sensations awaits you - behind the enigmatic wooden doors that lead into the spa, feel the relaxing “Floral Soul” massage with lavender essence. While enjoying this moment, a Jacuzzi bath will be prepared in your room with floral extracts of orchids, ylang ylang, wild roses, and poppies. With depurative and purifying properties for the skin, they provide a sensorial and delicate bath. Relax your body and delight in our care. The remaining day is at leisure.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
3
DAY 3 AREIAS DO SEIXO – ÓBIDOS
Today is a free day at leisure. We recommend a visit the beautiful medieval town of Óbidos. Óbidos is known by its typical white houses, flowered windows and narrow streets paved with beautiful stone. The town of Óbidos was a gift from King Dinis of Portugal to his queen Elizabeth of Aragon (also known as Isabel) on their wedding day in 1282. The cobbled streets, whitewashed homes with brightly painted trim, and medieval castle draw you into the magical setting of this ancient walled city. Obidos is also known for the traditional Portuguese drink “ginja”. A sour cherry liqueur, a version of ginja has been made since Roman times but originated in its current form from a 17th century monastery recipe. On the main street in Obidos, Rua Direita, you will find many shops selling the drink served in dark chocolate cups you can eat afterward.
Meals : Breakfast
4
DAY 4 AREIAS DO SEIXO – LISBON - FULL DAY PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR OF LISBON (approx. 67km)
After an early breakfast, check out of the hotel and drive towards the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, where you will be staying at the boutique charming Hotel Valverde, an elegant 19th century townhouse on Lisbon’s grandest boulevard. Reminiscent of London and New York’s townhouses, the hotel has a classic and elegant feel, punctuated by contemporary furniture, works of art, objects, and antiques. Hotel Valverde, considered the “oasis of comfort and discreet luxury and romanticism”, awaits you with a welcome drink at the bar and small bottle of Champagne with strawberries with chocolate in your room.
It’s time to visit the “the Seven Hills City” with its World Heritage Sites, on a private guided tour. Your private guide will give you a panoramic tour of the Edward VII Park, Liberty Avenue, Rossio Square, a short walk through the medieval quarter of Alfama (with its narrow streets that recall the Moorish occupancy), and the magnificent St George’s Castle; you will also pass by the 12th century Cathedral, and Blackhorse Square is an immense square that brings downtown to the Tagus River. You will head to the most historical quarters of Lisbon - the Discoveries Quarter of Belem, from which the Portuguese Caravels sailed off to the epic maritime discoveries. In Belem, two of Lisbon’s jewels and symbols, the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belem, whose date back to the 16th century, both considered as World Heritage Sites, and represent the most luxurious and prestigious times of the Portuguese Monarchy.
It’s time to visit the “the Seven Hills City” with its World Heritage Sites, on a private guided tour. Your private guide will give you a panoramic tour of the Edward VII Park, Liberty Avenue, Rossio Square, a short walk through the medieval quarter of Alfama (with its narrow streets that recall the Moorish occupancy), and the magnificent St George’s Castle; you will also pass by the 12th century Cathedral, and Blackhorse Square is an immense square that brings downtown to the Tagus River. You will head to the most historical quarters of Lisbon - the Discoveries Quarter of Belem, from which the Portuguese Caravels sailed off to the epic maritime discoveries. In Belem, two of Lisbon’s jewels and symbols, the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belem, whose date back to the 16th century, both considered as World Heritage Sites, and represent the most luxurious and prestigious times of the Portuguese Monarchy.
*Included: Private transportation with English-speaking driver and English-speaking guide.
*Not included: entrance fees to monuments and meals
Meals : Breakfast
Accommodation : Hotel Valverde Lisboa 5*, in a Junior Suite (or similar), for 3 nights
5
DAY 5 LISBON – SINTRA (HALF DAY PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR)
After breakfast, leave at 9am for romantic Sintra and a private morning guided tour. Sintra is classified as a World Heritage Site, and it lies at the east end of a rocky range of mountains. The town’s landscape is lush with surrounding green forests, exotic flowers and palaces that were built centuries ago as summer retreats for the royal family. A horse drawn cart ride in Pena Park provides a true journey through time on a route between the Valley of the Lakes and the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, passing through Pena Farm and the Garden of the Countess of Edla. You will discover the history of this park and its creator, the botanical, and animal species that appear along the way and the historical buildings and corners of the garden found along the route. Take some time to walk around the narrow streets of Sintra, full of small shops selling Portuguese tiles and ceramics. The walk itself is like walking back in time. Return to your hotel at 1pm. The rest of the day is at leisure.
*Included: Private transportation with English speaking driver and English-speaking guide, horse drawn cart ride in Pena Park.
*Not included: entrance fees in monuments and meals
Meals : Breakfast
6
DAY 6 LISBON
Breakfast at the Hotel. Free day at Leisure OR optional activities.
Meals : Breakfast
Optional Excursions : Exclusive wine tasting with a view in Lisbon (+$):
This is probably the most unusual and exclusive wine tasting you can imagine doing in a city like Lisbon. We combined the views with heritage and added a premium tasting of wines of exceptional quality paired with Portuguese delicacies. The result cannot be less than exceptional. We propose a commented tasting of five wines, paired with some regional products (bread, olives, and nuts), in the highest tower of the churches of Lisbon, next to the bells and with a privileged view over the historic area of the city, the interior of the Castle and the Tagus River. Sample 2 white, and 2 red wines from different regions, and a 10-year Port wine. Learn about the best Portuguese wines from the experts. A memorable experience for memorable moments!
Lisbon pastry cooking class with a professional baker (+$):
During approximately 1.5 hours, you will learn with a professional baker at a local cooking place in Lisbon how to make the traditional pastry, the pastel de nata, and have the chance to learn how to bake it!
7
DAY 7 LISBON – COMPORTA (approx. 120km)
Breakfast at the hotel. After checking out, it’s time to move on, driving south of Lisbon for 1h40 for a unique experience in a relaxing environment. Comporta, a magical, unspoiled place where you will stay 3 nights at the hotel Sublime Comporta, the perfect retreat for romance, surrounded by nature. Upon arrival in your room, you will be welcomed with a bottle of sparkling wine and chocolates. Among the many amenities available for all guests to enjoy are a spa with a steam bath and sauna, 3 restaurants (2 seasonal), 4 pools (including one indoor heated pool and one children’s pool), a gym, a yoga pavilion, tennis and paddle courts, an organic garden, a forest garden, and an orchard.
Meals : Breakfast
Accommodation : Hotel Sublime Comporta 5* in a Bio Pool Suite (or similar) for 3 nights
8
DAY 8 COMPORTA - TROIA AND ARRÁBIDA (FULL DAY PRIVATE TOUR “NATURE AND WINE”)
Breakfast at the hotel. Comporta is located next to the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve. Here you can observe all the beauty of the unique flora and fauna. Today, you have a private day tour that is a mix of nature and wine. Your guide will meet you at 9am at the reception and the tour starts by boarding a catamaran to discover the Sado dolphins, sharing the beauty of the Sado Estuary and the coast of Troia and Arrábida. Lunch will be in a typical restaurant in the area. Stroll through the Serra of Arrábida which will have an unmatched view of land and sea; you can admire the existing flora and fauna, peculiar to Arrábida. Take this opportunity to visit a historic winery full of history and at the end, you can taste the wines produced and sample the local cheese. Return to the hotel at 5pm.
*Included: Private transportation with English-speaking driver/guide, a catamaran tour, lunch in a local restaurant, wine and cheese tasting.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
9
DAY 9 COMPORTA
Breakfast at the hotel. Free day at leisure to relax and enjoy the wonderful facilities of the hotel. We recommend a visit to the surrounding area, like the unique fishing village, Carrasqueira, lying on the left bank of the Sado River. Here you will find a multitude of wooden jetties on stilts (known as “cais palafita”) zigzagging along the muddy marshes. Fishing huts, some naturally weathered, others individually painted, stand atop the wharf.
Meals : Breakfast
10
DAY 10 COMPORTA – VILA NOVA DE CACELA (EAST ALGARVE REGION) (approx. 253 km)
Breakfast at the hotel, then check out. Continue your journey driving south along the coast in the direction of the Algarve. This region is one of Europe’s top destinations with the warmest Mediterranean climate and beautiful sandy beaches. You will stay for 4 nights in a hideaway retreat in the Eastern Algarve, with a wide view of the sea and only 2 km from the best beaches. Conversas de Alpendre is designed in perfect harmony between rusticity and sophistication. This luxury boutique hotel is designed with Portuguese wood, textiles, and typical tiles. Regional breakfast is served in the Common Room, where you can start the day with the best flavors the Algarve has to offer. You will have free WI-FI throughout the property and access to a saltwater pool. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Meals : Breakfast
Accommodation : Hotel Conversas de Alpendre 4*, in a Suite with terrace (or similar), for 4 nights
11
DAY 11 OLHÃO ISLANDS BOAT TRIP
Today, enjoy a boat trip to the islands and beaches of Ria Formosa. You will be picked at 9am for a 5.5-hour boat trip departing from the Olhão harbor, taking you on a relaxing day in a paradise yet to be discovered. On this lovely boat tour, you will explore 3 islands and discover the history and culture of the area. The first stop is on Armona Island. Here you can take a walk along its long white sandy beaches, see lots of beautiful and different seashells and swim in the crystal-clear waters. The boat trip continues to the next stop, Culatra Island. Here you can visit one of the most important fishing communities of the area and enjoy a meal at leisure in one of the local restaurants. Next, you will pass along Hangares, in Culatra Island, and learn about its historical importance in the anti-submarine defense during the World Wars. The last stop is Farol Island. Before returning to Olhão, you will have time to walk to the lighthouse of Farol or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the southernmost beach in Portugal. Return to the hotel at 3pm.
*Included: Private transportation to Olhão harbour with an English-speaking driver, a 5.5-hour boat trip with a skipper to Ria Formosa natural reserve, disembark on 3 different islands, free time for lunch in Culatra Island (not included), maps, and field guides (snorkelling equipment available during summer).
Meals : Breakfast
12
DAY 12 VILA NOVA DE CACELA – TAVIRA – VILA REAL DE SANTO ANTÓNIO
Breakfast and free day at leisure to relax and enjoy the wonderful facilities of the hotel. We recommend a visit to nearby Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António.
Tavira: In the Algarve, archaeological remains have been discovered tracing settlements back over 6,000 years. In the 13th century, the Castle and walls were strengthened, and the Church of Santa Maria was built. A period of great expansion began in the 15th century that resulted in the Voyages of Discovery. It became an important fishing port and provided support to the armies and armadas that defended the Portuguese coast, and further exported salted fish, dried fruits, wine, and other products. In 1489, King João II resided here for several months and in 1520 it became a city under Manuel I. This royal patronage was reflected in the architectural heritage and in the city’s expansion. In the 17th century, Tavira remained a major commercial centre in the Algarve. From this period dates much of the cultural heritage, which now includes 21 churches, including the Church of São Paulo, the Church of Santo António, the Church of Carmo, and the Church of São Francisco.
Vila Real de Santo António: The building of the town of Vila Real de Santo António in the 18th century brought evident economic and political advantages, was therefore more than just a mere royal whim. The successful experiment of the reconstruction of Lisbon after the earthquake in 1755 was therefore repeated in Vila Real de Santo António. This included grid-like planning of the urban structure, adherence to rigid architectural units and the use made of prefabricated standard building blocks. To appreciate the planning, you should walk around the city’s streets. Beginning in Praça Marquês de Pombal in the heart of the town, with its black and white cobblestones radiating from the central obelisk. This square contains three of the major urban features commonly found in the 18th century church, the Town Hall, and the old guardhouse. A few blocks away are the privately commissioned buildings, which continue to adhere to the architectural formula. We suggest ending your tour at the former Customs House next to the gardens along the bank of the Guadiana River.
Meals : Breakfast
13
DAY 13 VILA NOVA DE CACELA
Breakfast at the hotel. Free day at leisure OR optional activity.
Meals : Breakfast
Optional Excursions : “Cataplana” Cooking class at lunchtime in a traditional farm (+$):
This activity takes place in a traditional farmhouse in Tavira, with its own organic production of fruits and vegetables. You will get fresh and healthy products to cook the recipes, learning how to prepare a 3-course menu (starter, traditional fish seafood cataplana and dessert). The word “cataplana” refers not only to the utensil but also to the dishes that are prepared in it. The characteristics of this pan allow a wide range of dishes to be created that are a delight for all the senses and are good for one’s heart, as the cataplana enables little fat to be used in recipes.
14
DAY 14 DEPARTURE FROM FARO (approx. 52km)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then drop off your rental car at the airport and take your return flight home.
Meals : Breakfast
| Prices in CA$ per person, starting from, in double occupancy | |
| Daily Departures – 2024 | Land Rate |
| March – December | 9400* |
| Supplements | |
| Exclusive wine tasting with a view in Lisbon (min. 2 participants) |
425 per person |
| Lisbon pastry cooking class with a professional baker (min. 2 participants) |
255 per person |
| “Cataplana” cooking class at lunchtime in a traditional farm (min. 2 participants) |
340 per person |
| Automatic car / vehicle upgrade | on request |
|
*According to availability, pricing subject to change with warning |
|
Tour Code: D
**Prices in this document are for information only; they were issued at press time, for the current year. Please note that due to exchange rates and temporary promotions, they can increase or decrease at any time. Contact your travel agent for the price and promotion of the moment. Prices include the contribution of customers to the Compensation Fund for clients of Quebec travel agents.
Honeymoon in Portugal – detailed itinerary
Honeymoon in Portugal – detailed itinerary
