Explore the Algarve, Lisbon and Porto on this active adventure
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
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Enjoy a a private surfing lesson in Algarve
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Hike along the cliff tops to Cape St. Vincent
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Cycle around Porto's old downtown
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Trek through the vineyards of the Douro Valley
What's included
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Privately guided hiking, surfing and city tours
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Private transfers
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Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
Experience Portugal’s rugged beauty and rich history on this luxurious journey that, while active, flows along with the relaxed way of life that makes this corner of Europe so charming.
Begin in the south, on the scenic and quietly glamorous coastline of the Algarve. Based out of the sumptuous Vila Joya, a sea side retreat renowned for its food and two Michelin star winning chef, you’ll take to the swells on a private surfing lesson and trek along the dramatic cliff tops to Cape St. Vincent.
Close by is Lisbon, where you’ll spend the next three nights. A beautiful old capital city with a fabulous atmosphere, you’ll be shown remnants of its ancient roots through to its golden age at the heart of a globe-spanning empire, relish traditional petiscos and walk in the nearby Serra da Arrábida.
Further north still is Portugal’s second city, Porto, its picturesque Ribeira – meaning riverside – district one of the most iconic sights in the country. Cycle around the old downtown and spend two full days out hiking in the rural regions to the east, one of them up river through the vineyards of the famous Douro Valley (with a wine tasting, of course) and another through rustic villages close to the Spanish border, returning to the city to revel in Porto’s friendly nightlife and fabulous cuisine.
Example trip itinerary
Algarve
Transfer
Private transfer to the Algarve
Accommodation in Algarve
- 13 rooms and nine suites
- Two Michelin starred restaurant
- Bar and wine cellar
- Two swimming pool
- Spa
- Tennis court
Perched above the blue Atlantic and surrounded by evergreen gardens and fronted by a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, Vila Joya is striking family-run boutique resort.
There are just 22 rooms and expansive suites, each unique and with direct sea views, and casual, luxurious interiors of light, warm tones, natural materials and fine examples of Portuguese craftsmanship. Each room also includes a terrace or balcony, some with direct access to the garden.
At lunchtime and dinnertime, the terrace becomes a dining space under Dieter Koschina, patron at Vila Joya for over 25 years, winning two Michelin stars and becoming one of Portugal’s most highly decorated chefs. Fine dining is central to the Vila Joya experience and indeed the reason many people stay here again and again. There are also lighter bites at the Pool Restaurant. Indulgence continues at the fabulous spa which focuses on water, air and light.
- 38 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Terrace
- Spa
- Swimming pool
In the heart of the Algarve and looking out over the Praia da Rocha beach is Hotel Bela Vista, a beautiful historic property with plenty of Portuguese charm.
The building dates from 1918 but the interiors are thoroughly contemporary, creating an exciting blend of old and new. There are just 38 rooms and suites, each designed by one of Portugal’s leading interior designers. Expect bright colours, bold geometric patterns and beautiful ceramic and tile detailing. Rooms come with views of either the ocean, garden or the main street of Praia da Rocha, and some have their own private balconies.
Experience the flavours of Portugal at the Vista Restaurant, where guests can dine inside or on the terrace overlooking the Atlantic. There is also a L’Occitane spa with a sauna, hammam and treatments rooms, as well as an outdoor swimming pool. The beautiful Praia da Rocha beach is on your doorstep and there is direct, private access from the hotel.
Sitting right at the foot of the country, the Algarve is one of Portugal's most popular coastal destinations and home to some of its loveliest beaches. West of Faro you'll find golden sands and hidden coves, with the coastline getting wilder the further west you head. This is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy life by the sea.

Portugal is blessed with a rugged coastline along the wild Atlantic, making it one of the most sought after surf destinations in the world. Depending on where you paddle out, you will find different breaks and swells as the Portuguese coast provides ideal conditions for everyone from first-time surfers to the most seasoned veterans.
Enjoy a private class with one of the oldest and more experienced surf schools in the Algarve. Go over your goals for the morning on the sand before venturing out into the surf to learn the tricks of the trade. Whether you are just learning to get up on the board, or you glide through barrels with ease, the jaw-dropping views and knowledgeable company promise a truly extraordinary experience on the water.

Enjoy a hiking trail at one of the most well preserved coastlines in Europe, the Vincentian Coast. Start this tour with a 9km (5.6 mile) hiking trail along the magnificent Atlantic Ocean and colored cliffs through the Sagres Biogenetic Reserve.
After a picnic with your hiking guide, continue your visit of the area with a guided tour to the Museum of Cape St. Vincent, the Lighthouse and the Fishermen Harbor. Discover unusual characteristics of this lighthouse guarding one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, the traditional lands’ end of Europe and an essential landfall for sailors returning from Africa and the Americas.
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Lisbon
Lisbon
Accommodation in Lisbon
- 4 restaurants and lounges
- In room dining options
- 2 swimming pools (outdoor and indoor)
- Spa
- Fitness centre
- Rooftop running track
- Pilates studio
Located in the heart of the Lisbon, at the top of one of the city’s famous seven hills, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz offers spectacular views across the city and river.
282 rooms and suites are beautifully decorated with 18th-century style furnishings as well as tapestries, painting and sculptures by contemporary Portuguese artists. Most rooms come with a private balcony overlooking the hotel gardens, Eduardo VII Park or the River Tajo so you can enjoy bird’s-eye-views and wonderful sunsets over the city’s rooftops.
One of Lisbon‘s gastronomic gems, the Verandah restaurant serves fresher-than-fresh seafood caught from the nearby Atlantic Ocean and boasts an impressive wine cellar. For those with a keen interest in cooking, the hotel can arrange tastings, visits to the fish market and cooking classes. There is a also a sushi bar for fresh, healthy bites.
Named after the famous Portuguese artist, Jose Almada Negreiros, the hotel lounge is a favourite haunt for guests and locals alike. The centrepiece of the Ritz bar is Pedro Leitao’s piano, which has been signed by world-famous artists. Take a seat under one of the hand-made Centauros tapestries or head out onto the terrace to drink in the views.
There is a spa featuring an indoor pool and treatment rooms for when you want to completely unwind, as well as a rooftop fitness centre and running track for those who like an active start to their day.
There are 60 pieces of art throughout the hotel and privatley guided tours can be arranged for guests to learn more about them and their history.
- 87 rooms and suites
- 5 suites
- Restaurant and terrace BAHR
- Some rooms have balconies
- Historic downtown location
- Massage room
- Sauna and steam room
- Gym
- Amazing views of Lisbon and the Tagus River
The Bairro Alto reopened in 2019 after a two-year renovation and expansion project under the watchful eye of acclaimed Portuguese architect, Eduardo Souto Moura. The beautiful boutique hotel is nestled in the historic downtown heart of Lisbon and is within easy reach of all the city’s sights. You’ll find it sandwiched between the bohemian Bairro Alto and the chic Chiado district.
With just 87 rooms and suites, the hotel has an intimate feel. Bright and spacious, rooms look out over the city of Lisbon and the Tagus River – some featuring private balconies from which to admire the views.
After showcasing the best that Portuguese food has to offer around the world, Chef Nuno Mendes has returned to his hometown to oversee the restaurant BAHR and terrace. Guests will enjoy contemporary and creative cuisine with a focus on Portuguese flavours. For sublime views, head to the top-floor terrace and enjoy a drink as the sun goes down and city twinkles in the evening light.
Europe’s second oldest capital, Lisbon is an effortlessly elegant city, full of old-world charm. Winding your way through the city, you’ll pass rows of houses in warm shades of orange, yellow and rust red. Washing is strung from wrought iron balconies and window boxes overflow with flowers. Weaving their way through this pretty patchwork are the city’s trams, the favoured mode of transport of Lisbonites and a great way to hop between the different districts.
Lisbon has plenty to offer, with a plethora of museums and galleries as well as beautiful buildings covered in iconic azelujo tiles. The city is built on seven hills, each one offering spectacular views over the city and the River Tajo. It is also known for its lively restaurant scene and there are plenty of places to stop, sip a coffee and savour a Portuguese custard tart while watching the world go by

This tour allows you to discover Portugal's capital, colonised by many civilizations through the centuries including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Moors and finally the Portuguese after 1147. You will visit the Castle of Saint Jorge and the surrounding area of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest quarter.
This city is linked with the heroic deeds of the Portuguese maritime exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. This was the Age of Discoveries and the Golden Era of Portugal, transforming Lisbon into the opulent center of a vast empire. Part of the wealth from these expeditions was used to build magnificent monuments in the extravagant Manueline style. Some of these monuments can still be seen, especially in the area of Belem. You will visit also the traditional commerce zones of the city, with their 18th-century buildings as well as the Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods.

The Arrabida Natural Park is a beautiful protected area south of Lisbon. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the slopes of the Arrabida Chain are covered with the most characteristic vegetation of the region, Mediterranean maquis, a product of its particular mild coastal climate.
Hike the Chã dos Navegantes path around Cape Espichel, the most western part of Setúbal, and the west of Sesimbra village. The route leads to the top of a hill from where you can see the bay of Lagosteiros. It is from this place that the Pedra Mua can be seen, which consists of marks left by dinosaurs. Over the bay of Baleeira, visit the Forte de São Domingos da Baralha, which is now abandoned and in ruins.

This is a unique opportunity to get acquainted with Portuguese traditional cuisine. Petiscos are the Portuguese cousin of Spanish tapas, small portions of different dishes, served at the centre of the table. 'Having petiscos' or eating 'petiscos style' is one of the most enjoyable ways of having dinner, and it is so popular there is even a verb, 'petiscare', whose approximate translation means to nibble on a few little bites with a glass of wine. Petiscos are meant to be simple, eaten with your hands or with a toothpick or a slice of bread to mop up the sauces. As well as getting to enjoy this traditional gastronomical experience, you will have the opportunity to chat with your Portuguese host and learn more about Portuguese traditions, history, family life, sports and economics.
Transfer
Private transfer to Lisbon Train Station
Transfer
Train from Lisbon to Porto
Porto
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Porto
Accommodation in Porto
- 109 rooms and suites
- Rooftop swimming pool
- Spa
- Two gourmet restaurants
This hotel was the family home of the Yeatmans, the British owners of a large port business. A hillside position on the banks of the River Douro in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia and next to ancient port houses puts the hotel in a prime position for epic views and interesting activities.
The decor is classic and elegant, in keeping with the family’s heritage. The 109 rooms and suites feature antique artefacts and pictures from different Portuguese wine producers, opening out onto private balconies overlooking the river and the city’s historic centre. Be immersed in the city’s culture in the ADF Suite, where the bed head is an original barrel top and the domed oak ceiling mimics the enormous oak barrels used in wine production.
A highlight of a stay at The Yeatman is dining at the two gourmet restaurants. Enjoy imaginative cuisine where the traditional flavours are reinterpreted and presented immaculately. The restaurant is bright and airy and offers spectacular views over the river. There’s a comprehensive list of Portuguese wines and food and wine pairing menus take you on a journey through Portugal’s diverse and varied wine regions.
Relax and unwind at the hotel spa which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, using natural ingredients from the surrounding vineyards. There is also an indoor and outdoor rooftop pool – take a dip in the evening and admire the twinkling lights of the city laid out before you.
Portugal's second city is one of Europe's most charming. Built on a steep riverbank, a jumble of colourful medieval houses hug the calm waters of the Douro River where wooden boats bob on the surface and people spill out of its cafes and bars, more often than not with a glass of the wine that gave the city its name.

Hop on a bicycle and explore Porto's historic downtown, discovering among other important sites the Church of Carmelitas, the Church and Tower of Clérigos, São Bento railway station, Majestic Café, Square of Ribeira, Square of Batalha, the Mercado Ferreira Borges, the Church of Congregados and the famous Lello Bookstore.

Venture east out of Porto into the Alto Douro Wine Region, a UNESCO world heritage site, to begin your hike. The 7km (4.3 mile) trail is flanked by vineyards and follows the Douro River valley. This is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world - dating from 1756 - and viticulture stretches back to the Romans.
Next visit the Quinta da Pacheca estate, a historic property that has been bottling under its own name since 1738. Before indulging in a tasting, take a full tour of the scenic family-owned winery and enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch with your hiking guide.

One of the best ways to get to know Portugal’s breathtaking countryside is on foot. Just two hours from Porto sits Romeu, a charming rural village and the start of a fantastic hiking trail. The trail forms a 13km (8 mile) circle around the area, which you will trek with your guide, taking in the gorgeous landscape, trickling streams, vineyards and typical Portuguese homes.
At the trail’s midway point, climb to the village of Vila Verdinho along a path of remarkable granite blocks. Once you reach the village, you will be able to explore all of its gems, such as the Chapel of São Gens, the town square, the parish house and the Quinta do Cabeço overlook. On the second half of the hike, stop in an old cork factory and dam where your guide will explain their former uses and importance to the surrounding villages. Back in Romeu, you will be invited to check out the shops where you may pick up some regional products, visit the Museum of Curiosities, the beautiful garden and church. Finally reward yourself with delicious meal at the famous Maria Rita restaurant.
Transfer
Private transfer to Porto airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
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An Active Discovery of Portugal
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Experience Portugal’s rugged beauty and rich history on this luxurious journey that, while active, flows along with the relaxed way of life that makes this corner of Europe so charming. Begin in the south, on the scenic and quietly glamorous coastline of the Algarve. Based out of the sumptuous Vila Joya, a sea side retreat renowned for its food and two Michelin star winning chef, you’ll take to the swells on a private surfing lesson and trek along the dramatic cliff tops to Cape St. Vincent. Close by is Lisbon, where you’ll spend the next three nights. A beautiful old capital city with a fabulous atmosphere, you’ll be shown remnants of its ancient roots through to its golden age at the heart of a globe-spanning empire, relish traditional petiscos and walk in the nearby Serra da Arrábida. Further north still is Portugal’s second city, Porto, its picturesque Ribeira – meaning riverside – district one of the most iconic sights in the country. Cycle around the old downtown and spend two full days out hiking in the rural regions to the east, one of them up river through the vineyards of the famous Douro Valley (with a wine tasting, of course) and another through rustic villages close to the Spanish border, returning to the city to revel in Porto’s friendly nightlife and fabulous cuisine. | Whats included?
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Days 1-4 |
Algarve |
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to the Algarve |
|
Accommodation in Algarve
•
Vila Joya - $$$$$
Perched above the blue Atlantic and surrounded by evergreen gardens and fronted by a...
•
Hotel Bela Vista - $$$$$
In the heart of the Algarve and looking out over the Praia da Rocha beach is Hotel Bela Vista,...
|
|
Three nights in the Algarve Sitting right at the foot of the country, the Algarve is one of Portugal's most popular coastal destinations and home to some of its loveliest beaches. West of Faro you'll find golden sands and hidden coves, with the coastline getting wilder the further west you head. This is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy life by the sea. |
|
Private surf class Portugal is blessed with a rugged coastline along the wild Atlantic, making it one of the most sought after surf destinations in the world. Depending on where you paddle out, you will find different breaks and swells as the Portuguese coast provides ideal conditions for everyone from first-time surfers to the most seasoned veterans. Enjoy a private class with one of the oldest and more experienced surf schools in the Algarve. Go over your goals for the morning on the sand before venturing out into the surf to learn the tricks of the trade. Whether you are just learning to get up on the board, or you glide through barrels with ease, the jaw-dropping views and knowledgeable company promise a truly extraordinary experience on the water. |
|
Vincentian Coast and Charneca do Farol hiking excursion Enjoy a hiking trail at one of the most well preserved coastlines in Europe, the Vincentian Coast. Start this tour with a 9km (5.6 mile) hiking trail along the magnificent Atlantic Ocean and colored cliffs through the Sagres Biogenetic Reserve. After a picnic with your hiking guide, continue your visit of the area with a guided tour to the Museum of Cape St. Vincent, the Lighthouse and the Fishermen Harbor. Discover unusual characteristics of this lighthouse guarding one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, the traditional lands’ end of Europe and an essential landfall for sailors returning from Africa and the Americas. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Lisbon |
|
Days 4-7 |
Lisbon |
Accommodation in Lisbon
•
Four Seasons Hotel Ritz - $$$$$
Located in the heart of the
•
Bairro Alto Hotel - $$$$$
The Bairro Alto reopened in 2019 after a two-year renovation and expansion project under the...
|
|
Three nights in Lisbon Europe’s second oldest capital, Lisbon is an effortlessly elegant city, full of old-world charm. Winding your way through the city, you’ll pass rows of houses in warm shades of orange, yellow and rust red. Washing is strung from wrought iron balconies and window boxes overflow with flowers. Weaving their way through this pretty patchwork are the city’s trams, the favoured mode of transport of Lisbonites and a great way to hop between the different districts. Lisbon has plenty to offer, with a plethora of museums and galleries as well as beautiful buildings covered in iconic azelujo tiles. The city is built on seven hills, each one offering spectacular views over the city and the River Tajo. It is also known for its lively restaurant scene and there are plenty of places to stop, sip a coffee and savour a Portuguese custard tart while watching the world go by |
|
Lisbon highlights tour This tour allows you to discover Portugal's capital, colonised by many civilizations through the centuries including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Moors and finally the Portuguese after 1147. You will visit the Castle of Saint Jorge and the surrounding area of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest quarter. This city is linked with the heroic deeds of the Portuguese maritime exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. This was the Age of Discoveries and the Golden Era of Portugal, transforming Lisbon into the opulent center of a vast empire. Part of the wealth from these expeditions was used to build magnificent monuments in the extravagant Manueline style. Some of these monuments can still be seen, especially in the area of Belem. You will visit also the traditional commerce zones of the city, with their 18th-century buildings as well as the Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods. |
|
Arrábida Natural Park Hike: Chã dos Navegantes The Arrabida Natural Park is a beautiful protected area south of Lisbon. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the slopes of the Arrabida Chain are covered with the most characteristic vegetation of the region, Mediterranean maquis, a product of its particular mild coastal climate. Hike the Chã dos Navegantes path around Cape Espichel, the most western part of Setúbal, and the west of Sesimbra village. The route leads to the top of a hill from where you can see the bay of Lagosteiros. It is from this place that the Pedra Mua can be seen, which consists of marks left by dinosaurs. Over the bay of Baleeira, visit the Forte de São Domingos da Baralha, which is now abandoned and in ruins. |
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Petiscos food tour This is a unique opportunity to get acquainted with Portuguese traditional cuisine. Petiscos are the Portuguese cousin of Spanish tapas, small portions of different dishes, served at the centre of the table. 'Having petiscos' or eating 'petiscos style' is one of the most enjoyable ways of having dinner, and it is so popular there is even a verb, 'petiscare', whose approximate translation means to nibble on a few little bites with a glass of wine. Petiscos are meant to be simple, eaten with your hands or with a toothpick or a slice of bread to mop up the sauces. As well as getting to enjoy this traditional gastronomical experience, you will have the opportunity to chat with your Portuguese host and learn more about Portuguese traditions, history, family life, sports and economics. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Lisbon Train Station |
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Train from Lisbon to Porto | |
Days 7-10 |
Porto |
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Porto |
|
Accommodation in Porto
•
The Yeatman - $$$$$
Many of the oldest port firms were founded by British merchant families, and the Yeatmans were...
|
|
Three nights in Porto Portugal's second city is one of Europe's most charming. Built on a steep riverbank, a jumble of colourful medieval houses hug the calm waters of the Douro River where wooden boats bob on the surface and people spill out of its cafes and bars, more often than not with a glass of the wine that gave the city its name. |
|
Porto highlights biking experience Hop on a bicycle and explore Porto's historic downtown, discovering among other important sites the Church of Carmelitas, the Church and Tower of Clérigos, São Bento railway station, Majestic Café, Square of Ribeira, Square of Batalha, the Mercado Ferreira Borges, the Church of Congregados and the famous Lello Bookstore. |
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Vinho do Porto hike Venture east out of Porto into the Alto Douro Wine Region, a UNESCO world heritage site, to begin your hike. The 7km (4.3 mile) trail is flanked by vineyards and follows the Douro River valley. This is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world - dating from 1756 - and viticulture stretches back to the Romans. Next visit the Quinta da Pacheca estate, a historic property that has been bottling under its own name since 1738. Before indulging in a tasting, take a full tour of the scenic family-owned winery and enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch with your hiking guide. |
|
Romeu and Vila Verdinho full-day hike One of the best ways to get to know Portugal’s breathtaking countryside is on foot. Just two hours from Porto sits Romeu, a charming rural village and the start of a fantastic hiking trail. The trail forms a 13km (8 mile) circle around the area, which you will trek with your guide, taking in the gorgeous landscape, trickling streams, vineyards and typical Portuguese homes. At the trail’s midway point, climb to the village of Vila Verdinho along a path of remarkable granite blocks. Once you reach the village, you will be able to explore all of its gems, such as the Chapel of São Gens, the town square, the parish house and the Quinta do Cabeço overlook. On the second half of the hike, stop in an old cork factory and dam where your guide will explain their former uses and importance to the surrounding villages. Back in Romeu, you will be invited to check out the shops where you may pick up some regional products, visit the Museum of Curiosities, the beautiful garden and church. Finally reward yourself with delicious meal at the famous Maria Rita restaurant. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Porto airport |