A WEEK IN Portugal

Portugal may be small but it’s big on the vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty that invite intimate exploration. Discover the seafaring charms of the coast, the lush vineyards of the Douro River Valley, the hilltop castles and villages in its alpine interior, and monuments to man-made achievements during stays in gracious palace hotels and pousadas.

Spend two nights at the Freixo Palace Hotel, a restored 18th-century palace in the ancient port city of Porto with guided visits to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Douro Valley and the historic centre of Oporto. In Monte Real, an overnight stay at a palace hotel features tours of the University in Coimbra and the Monastery of Alcobaca, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as an exclusive fado performance.

Your unique accommodation in Évora is a converted, 15th-century convent, setting the scene for guided exploration of the Convent of the Order of Christ and the historic city, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will also enjoy wine and olive oil tastings at the Herdade do Esporão winery, which was established in 1267, and has a medieval tower and chapel, and some of the largest wine cellars in Portugal. In Lisbon, a two-night stay in Portugal’s capital city showcases Jerónimos Monastery on a city tour and includes a hands-on visit to the Tile Museum, a private dinner at the Palacio de Queluz, and excursions to seaside Cascais and Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights of the tour include visits to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites on guided visits with local experts; a private tour and dinner at the National Palace of Queluz (Palacio de Queluz) and its historical gardens built in 1747, and a guided visit to the Tile Museum for unique insights on the history and craftsmanship of this revered Portuguese art of azulejos. FURTHER INFORMATION: The eight-day tours will operate from May to October, 2018. To book contact your Travel Agent or Tauck Australia: tauck.com.au