An independent kingdom since 1143, Portugal established its continental frontiers in 1297 and is one of the oldest nations in Europe.

Portugal is Britain’s oldest trading partner. The story goes that during one of the Anglo French wars, King Charles II wanted to maintain his supplies of wine. The English turned to Portugal to deliver as transporting it over the seas was considerably quicker than over land. Sadly, when the wine was landed, it was off!! Some bright spark then hit on the idea to fortify it with brandy. That is how port evolved and as it came from Oporto, many English, Irish and Scots went to that city to make their fortunes, which is why so many port houses have British and Irish names.

It is another country which has benefited not only from membership of the EU but the 2004 European football championships also had a considerable influence on the country.  Lisbon used to be a nice city ruined by election posters daubed all over the place. (It was the last European country to have a revolution – in the 90’s). Now, the city is beautifully clean, spick and span, and has plenty to offer visitors.

A perfect way to get your bearings in Lisbon is to take a boat cruise along the River Tagus.  Seeing the old neighbourhoods laid out is a great means of appreciating this city strung out along its estuary shore.

Once in the city, visit the underground stations and see the beautiful works of art made from the traditionaltiles ('azulejos').  The idea of decorating the Lisbon Metro came when it was built in the 1950's as a way of alleviating the feeling of being underground.  By means of a face-lift during the 1990's, famous architects and artists chose themes related to that particular area of the city and to Portuguese culture, using more up-to-date forms of artistic expression.

• British Airways ~ Services four times daily from London Heathrow to Lisbon.
• GB Airways ~ Services three times daily from London Gatwick to Faro.
• TAP ~ Services twice daily from London Heathrow to Porto; twice daily from London Gatwick to Lisbon; and three times daily from London Heathrow to Lisbon.

There was a time when Portugal was extremely popular with our customers. In one year, we sent 22 tours there. Probably because of the concentration of development on British sports, the major sports we feature for touring in Portugal, Football and Rugby, have advanced significantly in the UK.

Rugby is available mainly in the Lisbon area (including Cascais to the west and Coimbra to the north) along with one club in the Algarve.   Like Spain, Football is also plentiful but little on good grass pitches.  Games are more likely to be played on astro or shale. 

With almost all grounds owned by the local council, there are frequent disruptions to scheduled games which consequently place touring matches at risk. When it all works, a great destination; if it rains, it can mean no games.  As a result, Portugal is not a country which we strongly recommend.

• Restaurant, also offering take aways.
• Bar
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Games room
• Coffee shop
• On-site supermarket.

The many restaurants and refreshment houses that Caiscais can offer are all within easy walking distance.