Secrets Itinerary: Peace, Quiet And Nature – Discover This New Tourism Trend ♦ The tranquillity of nature is the new trend of world tourism and in this field the Portuguese offer is extensive. Meet some of these locations in the north and inland. Secrets From Portugal is here to tell you all about this new tourism nature trend….. Portugal is much more than Lisbon and Porto, this is one of those catchphrases we all hear but today you’ll understand its meaning, get ready and enjoy!
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In the last year’s tourism has grown in the most different places: the Azores, the North, Centre and Alentejo area were the regions who saw the biggest growth. The tourism I’m referring is so much more than urban tourism, beaches or luxury hotels: Nature tourism represents 22 million trips a year in Europe: they are unhurried travellers who want to get rid of the stress of the city and usually spend more time in destinations. See below some of the best destinations you can find during the ride: we have luxury hotels insert in nature you’ll love, you’ll see.
What to See
Ferreira do Zêzere
The beauty of its valleys and the charm of Lago Azul have made the town a reference point for national tourism. The landscapes over the village of Dornes and the Castelo de Bode reservoir are breathtaking views not to be missed. If you are looking for experiences, in addition to the typical sightseeing tours, you can also go hiking, nature watching, boating, geocaching and wakeboarding. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and amazing destinations in our country, full of true natural treasures waiting to be discovered.
Arcos de Valdevez
Arcos de Valdevez is located in the mountainous complex of Peneda-Gerês National Park and is one of the 10 most emerging destinations in the north. Take a walk on the banks of Vez and enjoy the beauty of the village architecture. Castles, churches and bridges are just a few monuments that you have to include in your list. SECRETS TIPS: The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peneda – a sweeping scenery where nature and architecture merge – is a must-see.
Vila Nova de Foz Côa
Vila Nova de Foz Côa has the most famous set of rock engravings in Portugal. But it is wrong to think that this is the only reason to visit the municipality. Included in the Alto Douro Wine Region, considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Vila Nova de Foz Côa offers stunning views of the Douro. Take a walk and visit at least one of the eight viewpoints. We promise you won’t regret it.
Alcobaça
When talking about Alcobaça it is possible that the first images associated with the municipality are the Alcobaça Monastery and the Battle of Aljubarrota. But Alcobaça is much more than that. The castle, several palaces, the Wine Museum and the Faience Museum, as well as the Vimeiro National Forest and Serra d´Aire e Candeeiros, are just some of the amazing places to visit.
Sertã
Located in the Castelo Branco district, Sertã is a charming Portuguese village with just over 5,000 inhabitants. Bathed by Ribeira da Sertã and Ribeira do Amioso, Sertã is located in a schist valley surrounded by a large forest area. For fans of cultural activities, you can find traces of rock art, discover Sertã Castle and explore the many churches, chapels and bridges that characterize the county. To make the most of contact with unspoiled nature, you can choose to relax on one of Sertã’s four river beaches or discover the breathtaking landscapes offered by the various walking paths offered.
Where to Sleep
Natura Glamping
Nature tourism is the result of the evolution of the model of society in which we live in a meeting and respect for natural resources and for ourselves. Glamping arises from a need that seeks to associate the unique contact with Nature with Glamor and comfort of accommodation, living unique and diverse experiences. The Serra da Gardunha has a natural and multifaceted beauty and uniqueness with special features, namely at the Fauna and Flora level, with special mention to Asphodelus Bento Rainhae, a plant species of community interest that has as its unique habitat in the world Gardunha!
This territory has much to discover and explore at the archaeological, historical and cultural levels because these mountains passed and lived peoples with different cults and values, which were leaving traces throughout the region. Here you can cross paths of Santiago de Compostela, Roman sidewalks, and other resources and attractions, such as the Historical Villages (Templar presence), the Schist Villages, the River Beaches, the Rock Art, the Zêzere River itself, the Mining Heritage among others.
Carmo’s Boutique Hotel
Intimate and stylish. Carmo’s Boutique Hotel is strategically located to allow it’s guests the discovery of the Portugueses traditions, cultural heritage, the Atlantic Coast and the beautiful architecture of Porto & Northern Portugal Region. With just 15 rooms and 3 tents suite, the hotel provides and suggests to their guests an extensive selection of experiences from wine tasting, cultural and gastronomic events, nature experiences, picnics, horse riding, … For guest’s exclusive, Carmo’s invites you to discover the outdoor swimming pool and the gardens with the magnificent views to the mountains, the restaurant with it’s Traditional Portuguese Cuisine at Carmo’s saloon or in the terrace, the Wine Atelier, the Divine Spa, which offers massages and Aromatherapy treatments, the Nature Spa located at an outdoor tent with Ayurvédica treatments and don’t miss the opportunity to visit and Live the Enchanted World!… All this just 45 minutes from the city of Porto.
There is so much to see and do around Carmo’s Boutique Hotel. You are in the heart of Minho!… The old town centre of Ponte de Lima – the oldest village in Portugal – it’s only at a 4 minutes driving distance. Get lost in its medieval centre and cross the Roman bridge that spans the Lima river, after which the village was named. Visit the traditional market, the Toy Museum, Terceiros or the Militar Museums and between May and October every year, do not miss out on the International Festival of Gardens and learn more about Vinho Verde by visiting the Interpretation Centre. The natural reserve of the Lagoons must not be forgotten for the nature lovers.
The Oitavos
On the coast of Cascais, you will find total relaxation and endless opportunities to surf and yoga. The Oitavos is a realm of design and personalised service surrounded by sun, nature and 360º views of the Ocean, mountains and golf fairways. Plan your getaway to The Oitavos, and experience the luxurious accommodations of The Oitavos, where you will get surfing and yoga lessons. Guests will enjoy transfers from and back to the hotel, equipment and a professional and private instructor. Also a complimentary buffet breakfast and other services standard with every booking. Everyone deserves something unique. Enjoy our service, style, learn how to surf, practice yoga and have fun in the luxury of The Oitavos.
Six Senses Douro Valley
Six Senses Douro Valley is set in a fully renovated 19th-century farmhouse located on a hill in the heart of the Douro River, overlooking the surrounding vine-covered mountains and the river that runs at your feet. A spa, rooms, suites and villas, restaurants, wine library, swimming pools and organic garden are just some of the wonders that this place hides.
FeelViana Hotel
Between the sea and the river, with the mountain as the background, FeelViana Hotel is a paradise for those who like sports, nature, relaxing and eating well. Next to Cabedelo beach, there is the Atlantic Ocean on one side and a vast pine forest on the other, a combination that invites you to rest, but also to exercise.
With extraordinary natural conditions, Praia do Cabedelo is the perfect place for those who want to surf, kite or windsurf, and the hotel’s Sports Center encourages these sports as well as land sports such as cycling, trail running, running, trekking, yoga. and pilates. For those on holiday, this is the ideal hotel, offering activities for the whole family, whether on the water or on land.
