An independent kingdom since 1143, Portugal established its continental frontiers in 1297 and is one of the oldest nations in the World. Situated on the west side of the Iberian Peninsula, its geographic location along the Atlantic coast soon determined its vocation to the sea. In 1415, the Portuguese set sail on an epic voyage that would make them the first to discover the ocean routes to India, Brazil, China and Japan, and at the same time founded settlements on the east and west coasts of Africa.

Traces of this worldwide historic presence may be seen as trademarks of the Portuguese genius. Famed explorers include Vasco de Gama and Prince Henry the Navigator, to name only two. The Portuguese language became the 5th most spoken in the world, and the Portuguese people were privileged for being exposed to so many different civilizations. The vast monumental, artistic and archaeological heritage does witness not only the 850 years of history of encounters with distant cultures, but also the presence in the territory of more ancient peoples (Celts, Suevians, Visigoths, Romans and Arabs). The natural advantages of a sunny country with such diverse geographic features have turned Portugal into a chosen destination for many travellers.

Portugal is a very unique country that offers its visitors authentic experiences with old world flavour. For the lovers of food and wine, Portugal is renowned for its Port wines and the wonderful Douro Valley that is populated by quaint medieval villages, noble mansions and wine quintas. Historically Port became the first demarcated wine region in the world. The Douro Valley is renowned by sophisticated travellers for its beauty and charm.

Portugal has a long tradition in winemaking; in fact the history producing wine comes from much earlier than the foundation of its nationhood. Portugal’s wine industry was dramatically modernized in 1986 after the country joined the European Union, and there is now a strict ‘denominations of controlled origin’ (DOC) system. Portugal has a great variety of soils and climates and their wines include Port wine, Madeira wine, red wines, white wines,” vinho verde” (which literally means green wine and refers to its youthful freshness rather than its colour) and muscatel de Setubal. There is an eclectic mix of grape varieties, and undoubtedly the leader of the pack is the Touriga Nacional. This grape is the basis for fine Ports and the red wines of the Douro, as well as having an increasing presence in many other regions.

Once a great seafaring nation, Portugal fortified its wines to last longer aboard trading ships traveling to far-flung destinations. Today, Portugal remains best known for the port it produces, and Madeira is another familiar region with a long history. The sunny weather offers a good climate for all types of reds, and as the industry develops we won’t be surprised to see more wines from Portugal gaining international recognition.

For a relatively small nation, Portugal has surprising gastronomic variety. The Estremadura region, which includes Lisbon, is famous for its seafood - the fish market at Cascais, just outside the capital, is one of the largest in the country - while the production of sausages and cheese elsewhere adds another dimension to the national cuisine. The Algarve, the last region of Portugal to achieve independence from the Moors, and situated on North Africa's doorstep, contributes a centuries-old tradition of almond and fig sweets.

Indeed, the Portuguese have a long history of absorbing culinary traditions from other peoples. The age of discovery was propelled by the desire for exotic spices and ever since Vasco da Gama discovered the sea route to India at the turn of the sixteenth century, they have proved enormously popular. Peri-peri, a Brazilian spice transplanted to the former African colonies is used to flavour chicken and shrimp. Curry spices from Goa are common seasonings. These spices are typically used very sparingly, adding subtle flavour and depth to dishes. It is these influences that have helped make Portuguese food so markedly different from that of other Mediterranean countries and in Lisbon today there are scores of restaurants specialising in the cuisines of the old empire as well as Brazilian-style juice bars, offering drinks and ice-cream made from exotic fruits.

The Portuguese attitude to food is simple and imaginative, traditional and inventive. Above all, enjoying good food and the social aspects of eating out is an esteemed part of everyday life. From informal cafes to world-class restaurants, all budgets and occasions are catered for. Tiny cafes and tascas, often no more than holes in the wall, abound. The opportunity to sample this largely unknown cuisine in all its variety is one of the real rewards of visiting Portugal.

Portuguese cuisine has had a lasting influence in far-off places such as Macau and Goa, yet Portuguese food is under-represented outside of the country. It is often confused with Spanish cuisine but is in fact quite distinct. Simple ingredients that are impeccably prepared define Portuguese food. Fish, meat, olive oil, tomato and spices as well as hearty soups, homemade cheeses and breads and blends of shellfish and meat are emphasized. Naturally food in Portugal varies by region but fresh fish and shellfish are on almost every menu. The national dish is called “Bacalhau” which is dried, salted cod and you’ll find this virtually everywhere.

The Portuguese attitude toward food is simple, traditional and imaginative. Enjoying good food and the social aspects of dining out is a cherished way of life!

Exclusive Travels is pleased to present two delightful itineraries that highlight some of Portugal’s finest features: