* | Page 65

Destination Golf Portugal 2021
From the castles of Castelo Rodrigo , Sortelha and Sabugal to the fortress of Almeida , most of these 11th , 12th and 13th century bastions are today classified as national monuments . The collection of about 20 castles in the Centro reminds visitors that Portugal was once constantly working to protect itself from invaders .
WINE COUNTRY
Center of Portugal is famous for its deep diversity . And the same goes with wines . There are 5 wine regions within the region , namely : Dão , Bairrada , Beira Interior , Tejo and Lisbon . Exquisite wines matching the most demanding tastes , state-of-the-art wine locations and the coolest tasting spots . As well as breathtaking views over the never-ending vineyards bathed by sunlight and soothed by the Atlantic breeze . in museums . Óbidos , once a medieval fortress surrounded by a 12th century wall , invites you to wander and explore the cheerful medieval ambience of winding streets and old whitewashed houses where the sunset takes a golden colouring .
CENTER OF PORTUGAL HISTORICAL VILLAGES
Built from granite & schist , and located in the heart of the country , Portugal ’ s stone villages have witnessed more than 900 years of history . Although the villages are peaceful today , they have not always been so tranquil . Perched high on the region ’ s rolling hilltops , the villages played a crucial role in protecting the surrounding lands . Their vantage point made it nearly impossible for would-be invaders to approach undetected . Over the centuries , Moors and Christians , Spaniards and Portuguese , have all tried to take the villages for themselves and each village has its own thrilling tale to tell . One well known story is in the village of Almeida where in the 19th century , the people held off the French in their formidable fortress for 17 days . Whether you want to experience Portugal ’ s breath-taking landscapes , its historic fortresses , or the warmth of its people , the villages offer it all .
THE FRONTIER CASTLES
Discover the ancient stories of heroic deeds and glorious battles in the remains of the frontier castles .
THE MOUNTAINS
Whether Summer or Winter , the Serra da Estrela offers fun activities for all tastes . The highest point in Portugal mainland and among its most beautiful regions : Serra da Estrela makes it easy to get your family out and about . Go hang-gliding or for a ride in an ultra-light plane in the summer . Take a walk or spend the day bird-watching at the Nature Park if you are feeling more leisurely . The Serra da Estrela Nature Park ’ s tourist map , will show you the circular route around the mountain starting in Lagoa-Torre . For a quick snack along the way , stop by a local shop and try some Serra soft cheese , considered to be one of the very best in Portugal .
UNWIND & RELAX AT ONE OF CENTRO DE PORTUGAL ’ S SPAS ’
When you finish your day of hiking , swimming or hang-gliding , there ’ s no better way to unwind that at one of the region ’ s beautiful country spas . The Romans recognized the region for its pure waters and built special retreats here for the treatment of bodily and spiritual ailments . The spas of São Pedro do Sul , Curia , Luso and Monfortinho are the most well-known and are located in areas that offer plenty of entertainment and activities . If you are looking to soothe both body and mind , the peace and quiet of the green countryside and mountains is a wonderful place to take in some fresh air between spa treatments . There are many natural lakes and pools for a quick dip and rivers for an exhilarating canoe or rafting trip . The hills of Viseu , Coimbra and the Serra do Buçaco are also ideal for excursions by car , if you have a free afternoon .
IF GOLF IS YOUR CUP OF TEE !
Portugal is a prestigious international golf destination . The golf courses of Center of Portugal are among Europe ’ s best golf courses and include ; West Cliffs , Guardian Bom Sucesso Golf , Praia d ’ El Rey Golf Course , Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort and Montebelo Golfe . The best sport to play in times of social distancing .
DestinationGolf . travel | 65