This collection of historic villages located on the eastern side of Central Portugal provides a unique escape from hectic urban life. Each village has its own distinctive character and is worthy of a day trip, weekend get-away or extended holiday.
“Schist” is a type of crystalline metamorphic stone. It is easily split, creating a flat surface. For centuries, this “horizontal” stone became the ideal building material to create weatherproof, secure houses. Today, many original homes made of schist still stand and are remain occupied by the residents of the village.
When was the last time you were in a space of complete silence...or had the feeling you were floating on air? Hedade dos Grous, the county estate known for its deluxe accommodations, also offers an array of unique leisure experiences, including ballooning across the Alentejo landscape.
Who would guess that Portugal has some of the most interesting and awe-inspiring spaces devoted to books? Porto is home to the most beautiful bookstore in the world, Livraria Lello. But, the University of Coimbra in Central Portugal is the location for one of the world’s grandest and unique libraries, the Biblioteca Joanina.
Fresh air, stunning views, natural surroundings and good physical exercise. Ahhh, getting outside. It’s something we always think about doing, but often don’t take the initiative.
At Portugal Confidential, we adore chocolate. From the Obidos Chocolate Festival, to the Best Chocolate Cake in the World, we know where to go to for our guilty pleasure. So when we heard that Wallpaper Magazine listed Chocolataria Equador in Porto as one of the Top 20 Reasons to Visit Portugal, we had to investigate immediately.
The Chalet was originally built between 1864 and 1869 by King Ferdinand II for his second wife, Elise Hensler, Countess d'Edla. It is modeled on Alpine chalets popular at the time, and it sits in the large Pena Park facing the grand Pena Palace. It was intended as a private recreational house for the Countess.
Sometimes, when the city becomes too hectic, or one’s life becomes too stressed, it’s nice to get lost in an...