To the west of these mountains, there is a unique forest park area guarded by monks. In the 17th century the Carmelite Monastery was built here, and the monks tried hard to acclimatize exotic plants from the colonies. Some of the Goan cedars planted here in the 17th century are still growing. Nowadays, the park has 400 local and 300 exotic species.

In the central part of the country, near the border with Spain, there is the ridge of San Mamede, declared a state reserve and inhabited by bears. Another interesting area in the southeastern part of the country is the Arrábida ridge, densely forested and steeply descending to the seacoast. Here you can admire rare plants and beautiful landscapes. Fans of birdwatching will find it interesting to visit the southern province of Algarve. Here is a cozy bay, protected from the sea, which is a perfect resting place of many migratory birds.

The most western point in Europe, Cape of Cabo da Roca, is a picturesque place on the rocky shore with a magnificent panoramic view of the ocean. When visiting Portugal, one often wants to see its numerous cultural attractions, including the Azores archipelago which consists of nine volcanic islands. The islands are located in the zone of the Atlantic anticyclone and the Gulf Stream, which provide the relative temperature balance throughout the year. The largest island of the archipelago is Sao Miguel. Among its attractions one can name the Carlos Mochado Museum, the Church of St. Sebastian with the treasury of St. Peter, the famous palaces of the 17th-19th centuries, and the most beautiful lagoons.

In the valley of Vale das Furnas, tourists often visit hot springs. The island of Santa Maria offers ideal conditions for water sports enthusiasts. It is worth visiting the town of Vila Porto with small houses, a church and a chapel. Albufeira is the most visited place in the Algarve, a tiny fishing port with a theme park, oceanarium, as well as performances with dolphins and seals. Here one can travel on a hot air balloon or paraglider, practice scuba diving and rafting down the river.

Cascais is a city of ancient history, which is filled with a special symbolic meaning for its inhabitants. The cradle of the city is the Castle of St. George. Cascais area is famous for its magnificent beaches, golf courses and casinos.

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal. The historical center is the most picturesque and interesting district of Lisbon, where many tours begin, just ask any of the Portugal’s tour operators. Madeira is a beautiful volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean admired for its sub-tropical climate and magnificent nature. It is a popular holiday destination of many celebrities. However, the highlight of Portugal is Sintra, the old Moorish town, which became the residence of Portuguese kings in the Middle Ages. Against the background of romantic landscapes and exotic parks, one can admire ancient castles, palaces, and monasteries.

Estoril is the sunniest city in Europe, with a unique climate. A little more than a century ago, amazingly beautiful nature and mild Atlantic climate attracted the world's elite and the representatives of the famous aristocratic families to Estoril, where gorgeous sandy beaches and clear water are traditionally in demand.

The blue of the sea, hidden caves, castles, wonderful local cuisine, lively nightlife, trendy boutiques and large department stores, museums, and hotels - this is the modern face of many Portuguese resorts. Travel agents for Portugal will have all necessary knowledge to help prospective travelers put together the best itinerary for this country.