WINTER


With an average of more than 300 sunny days a year in parts of Portugal, and temperatures that rarely fall below 10C, winter here can feel more like spring. For the most predictable winter weather, the Algarve and Madeira are best suited to those seeking some sun. Temperatures stay in the high teens, and there’s the added bonus of avoiding the crowds of high season. Madeira’s exuberant greenery and volcanic peaks make it a beauty, and with both relaxing and active pursuits – think mountain biking, canyoning and paragliding – to choose between, it can cater to a much wider audience than the older market with which it’s most often associated. Winter is a time for much celebration on the island, with huge firework displays at new year and riotous carnival celebrations around February and March. The Algarve’s golf courses are famous the world over, and winter means comfortable temperatures and clearer greens. But this is by no means the region’s only winter attraction. The walking trails of the Via Algarviana, Rota Vicentina and Grande Rota do Guadiana are well worth exploring at this time of year, and the region’s historic towns and villages, somewhat ignored in the summer rush to the beach, come into their own. The distinctive, Moorish- inspired architecture can be seen in Faro’s Old Town, as well as in


Wellness in winter


Portugal is famous for its thermal spas, and there’s no better time for a long, hot soak than winter – particularly as the volcanic waters have health-giving properties. Porto and the north have an impressive 18 thermal spas, many dating from the Roman era – think urban thermal spas in Porto, beach-side spas in Minho and mountain retreats in Gerês. The volcanic Azores boast thermal baths and iron-water pools, perfect for relaxing in after adventurous activities on the archipelago. Locals even swear by cooking in the steaming craters.


With an average of more than 300 sunny days a year in parts of Portugal, and temperatures that rarely fall below 10C, winter here can feel more like spring


Loule, known for its market, pretty Tavira and the seaside towns of Portimão and Monchique. Winter is a wonderful time for a city break, with no need to worry about overheating as you explore. Lisbon’s steep, cobbled streets are packed with historic houses tiled with Portugal’s famous blue- and-white azulejo tiles, and its location, built across seven hills, means visitors are never short of a stunning view. Sitting astride the River Douro, Porto is a historic city with a youthful zest for life and a thriving creative scene. Its old town is across the river from Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the wine cellars where visitors can taste the town's signature fortified wine. Both cities have extensive shopping opportunities, from high-end boutiques to street markets selling genuine Portuguese handicrafts.


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