Lisbon, the dazzling city that stretches along the banks of the River Tagus that has its roots in Spain, is an enchanting capital. There is the fortress around which the city originally sprang up, and which is now circled by a variety of village style districts in the medieval style. Portugal had a massive empire and during the great Age of Discovery great riches returned to its shores. Picturesque houses whose facades are decked with ornate ceramic tiles stand next to glorious monuments and beautiful parks. As the dusk turns to night, the yellow electric tramcars continue to wind their way up and down the hills of the old capital, while the sound of traditional Fado music floats from open windows and busy cafes out over the flagged streets. Lisbon celebrates regularly and it has a number of vibrant festivals throughout the year that add colour and passion to the city. Even on a short break, staying in a luxury boutique hotel,  we have found Lisbon to be an excellent destination for shopping and enjoyed the busy nightlife along the river banks.

The whole green river valley that surrounds the capital is called Lisboa and a stage upon which deeply-rooted cultural traditions are enacted. This is a land of popular music and wild dances, and the traditional costume worn by the horsemen still seen rounding up their cattle in rural pastures is a real feature. Here the landscape that hugs the Atlantic coast swiftly changes from high, sweeping cliffs to beaches of white sand, backed by lagoons. Let us not forget that Cabo da Roca, is Europe’s westernmost point. This is a region of enchanting coastal villages where the brightly-coloured fishing boats still ply their trade.

Other than Lisbon there are many interesting towns that beckon as well as many interesting sights: the imposing Mafra Convent, the cosmopolitan seaside resort of Cascais, the ancient pines of the Arrábida hills or picturesque Sesimbra, the city of Setúbal and the aristocratic country-houses of nearby Azeitão, take a camera for Sezimbra, Peniche and Nazaré as they are remarkably photogenic.

The area of Lisboa has something for every taste: beaches, golf courses, shopping, art and culture and as such is an excellent family destination as well as offering plenty of relaxing pastimes for couples in low season too.

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