Traveler Magazine Andrew Harper Traveler Summer 2019 | Page 28

26
READY
FOR
THEIR
CLOSE-UP
Northern Spain
and Portugal
AUTHOR
PHOTO
LISA KAHAN
G R A N V I A , M A D R I D, S PA I N
Stand atop São Jorge Castle in Lisbon, high above the city center,
and one of the first things you’ll notice are the cranes. All across
the city, tower cranes have sprouted between the red-tiled roofs
as far as the eye can see. A shining example of urban renewal,
Lisbon is in the midst of an extraordinary revival. The same is true
throughout Spain and Portugal, where after decades of economic
stagnation, a breathtaking renaissance is underway.
Dazzling and dynamic, the changes have unleashed an
incredible creative spirit, making the Iberian Peninsula a
requisite destination for foodies, wine lovers, art enthusiasts and
Europhiles alike. The results can be felt particularly in Northern
Spain and Portugal, where Madrid, the Douro Valley, Porto and
Lisbon are garnering international attention for their efforts. Let
us introduce you to this vibrant land with a 10-day itinerary that
can easily be tailored to accommodate your interests.