Ongoing Deals

Cruise the new Grande Lago at Alqueva - from 1,140 € per week/family

Wednesday, 03 March 2010 18:24

 

Europe's biggest man-made lake can be found in Portugal, with lots of the different options from a relaxing cruise or an extended boating holiday. Located in the heart of the Alentejo region, to the southeast of Évora, Alqueva Lake covers some 250 square-kilometers and is reachable from both Lisbon and the Algarve region by car in two hours. A range of boats can be rented for couples or families with weeklong winter rates from 1,140 euros with weekend and short-week (Mon-Fri) rates also available. Day visitors can enjoy a wide range of water sports on the lake as well as a leisurely cruise stopping off at various points of interest, including the tiny medieval walled town of Monsaraz.

The new Amieira Marina near the Alentejo town of Portel offers tour boat cruises. For just 35 euros, the cruise includes a full meal and great views while sailing the Alqueva Lake.

Weeklong off-season house boat rates for couples or families (up to 12 people) start at 1,140 €. and daily rates are also available from 174 €  per night – accommodating 8 people. Day visitors can enjoy a wide range of water sports on the lake as well as a leisurely cruise stopping off at various points of interest, including the medieval walled town of Monsaraz and other near by historic villages (Amieira, Alqueva, Aldeia da Estrela, Mourão, Juromenha, Aldeia da Luz).

The Alqueva dam in Alentejo was first proposed in 1957. In 2002, the sluices were closed, and by 2004, the hydroelectric power plant came on line. With the lake almost full, the Grande Lago is a reality and an economic engine for the southern Alentejo. Vast areas around the lake are now natural reserves.

Other special programs such Mini 5 days/4 nights Week in the House Boats and 2 Weekend nights at one of the following hotels (Horta da Moura, Hotel de Moura, Hotel Refugio da Vila) are also offered from 1,262 euros and will allow visitors to enjoy the Alqueva Lake in a different way.

More information at: http://www.amieiramarina.com

'American Idol' hopeful Katie Stevens speaks Portuguese

Thursday, 18 February 2010 19:38

Blame it on the Fado... 'American Idol' hopeful Katie Stevens is 16-year old Connecticut high school student from a Portuguese family and wants her Portuguese grandmother, who suffers from Alzheimer, to see her become the next idol. Born into a large Portuguese family, Stevens, speaks fluent Portuguese. Força Katie - estamos contigo!

Portuguese Hideaways packages make a memorable journey to Portugal

Tuesday, 09 February 2010 00:00

Portugal’s top hotels and resorts have put together luxurious travel packages that offer guests the opportunity to visit the nation’s top destinations with ease. Stay between November and March and packages begin at 690 Euros per person. From April to October, packages start at 860 Euros per person. Offer valid through October 2010.

The Aquapura Hotel in the Douro Valley is offering a two-night stay with complementary breakfast, access to the on-site spa and a wine tasting at the nearby Quinta da Pacheca. Not included, but recommended is a Douro vineyards boat trip or a visit to the Côa Valley archaeological park. The hotel boasts gorgeous views, fantastic food and a sleek and modern design. In 2009, Luxury Travel Magazine listed Aquapura one of the 10 best wine country retreats in the world.

The Quinta das Lágrimas Hotel is located in Coimbra, the ancient capital of Portugal and home to many of the country’s great musicians and poets. The hotel, known for its charm, history and elegance, offers some of Portugal’s finest service and world-class dining. The Quinta’s main claim to fame is the legend of Pedro and Inez, the star-crossed lovers whose tragic affair came to an end at the estate. The package includes a one night stay in a garden bedroom with breakfast and access to the spa’s full range of relaxing treatments. It also includes a visit to the Santa Clara monastery which was founded in 1283. Not included, but recommended  is a stroll through the romantic gardens where Pedro and Inez once shared quiet moments and a visit to the stunning Roman ruins of Conimbriga.

The Heritage Hotels, a small collection of boutique hotels spread throughout some of the most popular neighborhoods in Lisbon is offering a two-night package that includes a welcome drink upon arrival, breakfast, tickets to the National Museum of Art and a tour of the city. Managed by a Portuguese family, the Heritage Lisboa Hotels are located in old houses and small historic buildings in the historic city district. These small units are an intimate alternative to the large luxury hotels, striking a balance between local traditions and modern-day requirements. Plus you can’t beat the location. In the central city, visitors see the most genuine aspects of Lisbon, ranging from its monuments to the local residents.

If you are looking for an intimate retreat, unbelievable natural beauty and a unique vacation experience head to Sagres, located on the most south-western point of Europe. The Memmo Baleeira Hotel is the perfect retreat to discover the region, allowing quick access to the scenic sea cliffs and natural parks, while providing comfort and class at the end of the day. The package includes a two night stay with breakfast and a cycling tour of Costa Vicentina along the Western Coast. Not included by recommended is a sunset walk along the São Vicente Cape or a trip to the Sagres Fortress.

A truly unique and charismatic hotel located in the heart of Porto historical district, the Hotel Infante Sagres mixes old world elegance with a sleek and modern style. The hotel is regarded as an icon of Portuguese hospitality and is located steps from the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Area. Packages include a two-night stay with breakfast and a visit to the Port Wine Cellars. Visitors can also take a tour of the meandering Douro River or tour the historic city center.

Valentine's Day Escape

Tuesday, 26 January 2010 16:32

Valentine's Day falls on the same week as Carnaval this year, Eurosol Hotels have put together a special package allowing visitors the chance to celebrate both happy occasions at the same time. Guests staying at the four-star Eurosol Estarreja Hotel & Spa just north of Aveiro, northern Centro, can take advantage of the combined one- or two-night  Valentine's and Carnaval deal that includes free tickets for the local Carnaval parade. The price of a 1-night or 2-night stay for two people costs 165 euros or 240 euros, respectively, and includes a romantic candle-lit dinner for two with wine in the hotel's Real Cozinha Velha Restaurant on Sunday the 14th of February with live musical accompaniment. The price also includes strawberries and sparkling wine on arrival and complimentary use of the on-site gym, indoor pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, plus  steam bath.