Portugal with the family
Itinerary
Days 1-3 – Authentic Lisbon
Today you’ll arrive in Lisbon and stay in a central family-friendly hotel the historic centre that is within walking distance from an array of sights. Winding streets, large squares and old trams adorn the streetscape of this district, but because the centre is quite compact, it is best to discover the sights on foot. Admire the exquisite details of centuries-old buildings, each telling a unique story of the city’s rich heritage. Experience the authenticity of Lisbon’s squares, where local restaurants create a vibrant ambiance that beckons you to sit back and relax.
Start your morning the next day with a delightful breakfast, fueling up for the exciting adventures that lie ahead. Discover hidden places where only locals go, walking together through narrow streets discovering lesser visited areas. In the afternoon you can decide what you are going to do. Dive into the seafarers’ past in Belém, on the banks of the Tagus, or head to the Alfama district, with its centuries-old buildings. The kids can enjoy an ice cream treat, a fun playground stop and a ride on the funicular plus some cool activities along the way!
Days 3-6 – Camping in the Portuguese wilderness
Today you’ll pick up your rental car. After signing the contract and receiving a full briefing, you can set off on the open road and drive from Lisbon to Alentjo. The journey time is approx. 2 hours. On your way to your rural retreat today, you will head to a local supermarket to collect your supplies for the next few days. On arrival at the campsite, you can put your groceries in the communal kitchen. Don’t forget to bring something for the barbecue. Tonight, you will sleep in a glamping tent right on the riverside with a real bed for comfort, but a paved pebbly floor so you feel at one with nature.
Over the next two days we have some adventures planned for you with a different activity each day, both including a great local guide. One day kayaking is on the agenda and the next you forget the kayak and head out in shallower waters on foot, climbing up and over obstacles in the cooling water. After these active days, you’ll have worked up an appetite, so you’ll get the barbeque going and cook up a feast. At the end of the day, you’ll fall asleep in your tent under the clear starry sky and enjoy the sound of cascading waterfalls and the gently flowing river.
Days 6-10 – Secluded spots on the Algarve
Today you’ll drive from Alentejo to Algarve West, the journey should take around 1 and a half hours. Arrive in the Algarve, one of Portugal’s most famous regions because it is a place that really has something for everyone. You’ll quickly drive away from the busier tourist areas and head to your quiet residence in a more secluded location. Small sandy beaches are only about ten minutes away by car, so take a dip before trying the delicious “cataplana”, a local fish stew, with a glass of Vida Nova wine at the Portuguese tavern nearby.
You now have a few days to do as you please. It may be to go no further than the hotel grounds, swapping between laying on your sunbed and floating in the pool. If you prefer to explore the local area, there is a fantastic local market a few minutes’ drive away full of vegetable, bread, olives, fish and fruit. Once you’re stocked up, cycle along the cliffs or drive the coastal route to Cabo São Vincente, also known as the end of the world. The view over the Atlantic with the lighthouse and the fortress in the foreground make it well worth the drive.
Days 10-14 – Island hopping in the Algarve
Today you’ll drive from Agarve West to Algarve East, the journey should take around 3 hours. After breakfast today, you’ll get back in the car to drive to the nearby fishing village of Olhão, the main fishing port in the Algarve. It’s the perfect place to wander through and enjoy a pasteis de nata, before meeting your guide who will be taking you on your boat trip around the islands of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. You will sail past Deserta Island and the lighthouse island of Farol with your guide telling you about the flora and fauna along the way, before disembarking and spending some time on the island of Culatra. Sit down for lunch in a restaurant or take a nice picnic for the beach, taking a dip in the calm water. As the evening draws in, you’ll sail back to Olhão.
The following day is free for you to do as you please. After yesterday’s excitement, maybe you’ll choose to simply laze on the beach, have a beer and take a dip in the pool. Alternatively, if you’re up for more action, take a trip to Tavira and board a boat to cruise the nearby lagoons. You’ll make your way through salt marshes and grab a bite to eat on one the banks of the river. From Olhao, you can also cross the sea with a water taxi to car-free island of Armona. At the harbour, there are some taverns and restaurants, but head over to the other side of the island and you will find a real beach bar with elongated beaches.
As the end of your stay, you’ll drive from Algarve East to Faro, the journey should take around an hour. When you get there, you’ll drop off your hire car at the airport and board your flight back to the UK, with hundreds of beautiful pictures and an unforgettable experience.
Accommodation
