Moving toward the center of Portugal, the Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal, presents a rugged landscape ideal for hiking, skiing, and exploring. Its high plateaus and river valleys are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, and the region is renowned for its artisanal cheese, made from sheep’s milk according to age-old methods.

The vast plains of the Alentejo stretch out with their golden fields, cork oak forests, and olive groves, painting a picture of tranquil rural life. This region is also home to the Alqueva, the largest artificial lake in Western Europe, which has created its own microclimate and offers numerous recreational activities including boating, fishing, and stargazing under its famous dark skies.

The west coast of Portugal, known as the Costa Vicentina, forms part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. This area features some of the most spectacular and preserved coastlines in Europe. The rugged cliffs, secluded sandy coves, and powerful waves make it a popular spot for surfers and nature enthusiasts who are drawn to its raw and untamed beauty.

Finally, the Algarve, with its famous cliffs, caves, and golden beaches, offers more than just picturesque coastlines. The region’s Ria Formosa lagoon, a series of barrier islands, is a key habitat for birdlife and a vital area for aquatic species. It serves as a rest stop for hundreds of different birds during the spring and autumn migratory periods.