Bird Watching in Portugal

Europe's south-westernmost country has gained quite a reputation as a bird-watcher's paradise in recent years, with good sightings regularly reported in every region, including the Atlantic islands of Madeira and the Azores. The sport is helped along by better infrastructure (trails, parks) for the bird watchers and an increased emphasis on eco-tourism. Birds to be found include, in the mountainous north, nesting birds such as the Montague Harrier, Red Kite and Short-toed, Golden and Bonelli’s Eagles. At high altitudes, the Tawny Pipit and Rock Thrush can be seen. The Portuguese Society of Bird Studies has identified the vast area of the Albufeira do Rio Azibo as one of the main spotting zones in Northern Portugal. Likewise, the slopes of the Douro Valley are one of the best places to observe birds of prey, many of which nest in this region. Large numbers of water birds can be seen along the coast that borders Portugal’s Centro region, most notably around the Ria de Aveiro estuary among the low-tide mud, reeds and salt-pans. The wetlands of the Lower Mondego attract many unusual species such as the Purple Heron, while the Tejo and Sado estuaries are a very popular winter wetland for magnificent-looking birds like the Greater Flamingo. Portugal's hot, dry southern regions provide ideal conditions for a wide variety of nesting, migratory and winter water birds, including the Black-winged Stilt, Purple Gallinule and Lesser Short-toed Lark. For more information click here.

Affordable Vinha da Quinta country estate near Sintra

The Vinha da Quinta country estate near Sintra, west of Lisbon, is an affordable place to stay. Located close to the sea in the charming village of Janas, Vinha da Quinta has 4 double rooms, with a total of 11 beds. The estate includes a bar, swimming pool and sitting room where guests can relax beside the fireplace. Price for double room starts at 60 euros per night. http://www.vinhadaquinta.com/

Discover the best cooking classes on Portuguese Cuisine in Alentejo Region

The Alentejo Region is Portugal's "undiscovered" region. It has its own cuisine, culture, style and accent. Though it is Portugal's largest province, it is sparsely populated. Several hotels in the region are now offering cooking classes in which the particular cuisine of the region--marked by Roman and Arab flavors--are taught. The Hotel Clube de Campo Vila Galé em Albernôa, in Beja offers classes, as well as the Refugio da Vila Cooking School, Quinta dos Prazeres and Herdade da Matinha. At the Herdade da Malhadinha Nova visitors can pick and choose their experiences on site, including the spa, swimming pool, sauna, massage, Jacuzzi, cooking and wine workshops.

New trendy Vincci hotel opens in Lisbon

The Vincci Baixa Hotel is the Vincci chain's first hotel in Portugal and is located in the heart of Lisbon's lively Baixa shopping and banking district. The neighborhood has dozens of shops and open-air bars that are very popular with musicians and artists, giving the area a Bohemian flare. North from the hotel is the Rossio district, which also has a wide range of restaurants choices. The Vincci Baixa covers 5 floors and has 66 fully equipped double rooms decorated in an attractive modern style with attention to detail. Prices start at 118.33 Euros per room. More information http://www.vinccihoteles.com/en/hotels/portugal/lisboa

Cycling and walking tours off the beaten track in Portugal

Terracotta Journeys is offering cycling and walking tours off the beaten track in Portugal for the active traveler seeking fine local cuisine and wines, impressive scenery and historic accommodations. Combine a visit to Lisbon with one of their cycling tours and they will give you advice on where to stay and what to see when you're there. Many of their tours depart from Lisbon so they can pick you up right from your hotel. Other tours include the opportuniy to discover The Douro River and the Port Wine Journey or The New Costa Azul to the Algarve Tour. Click here to check each of the trip schedules.

Take advantage of fall savings at eco-friendly resort

The Aldeamento Turístico de Palmela, an ecologically friendly resort near the Sado Estuary is offering fall specials. In September, a one-bedroom apartment will be 60 euros, in October 52.50 euros and November 45 euros. The property includes 18 studies and 26 apartments, all fully equipped. A restaurant, bar, esplanade, two outdoor swimming pools, two tennis courts and a children's playground are all on-site. http://www.fpalmela.com/

Portugal's first pousada was created in the hills of the Alentejo regioin, near Serpa, and now that region is the site of Portugal's newest inn. The Herdade da Retorta is set in a historic manor house and estate, with six rooms. Cycling, bird-watching and traditional sports are all nearby. Prices per double room with breakfast included start at 70 Euros. http://www.herdade-da-retorta.pt/