Buying property in Portugal
By The Chesterfield Group
Portugal has long been a popular choice for people, particularly from the colder climates of Northern Europe, looking to purchase a holiday home or a retirement home. Traditionally they have done so using offshore companies, mainly to avoid estate taxes. Unfortunately Portugal, along with some other countries, has made this route considerably less attractive by the imposition of swinging tax penalties on offshore companies. The magnitude of these penalties can be seen from the examples below.
Real Estate Transfer Tax
This tax is paid by the purchaser, at progressive rates of up to 6% (5% for rural property) on property used exclusively for residential purposes, on the higher of the registered value or the purchase price agreed between the parties. This is usually the purchase price.
For offshore companies this rate has been increased to 15%.
Municipal Property Tax
This is a tax, at a rate set annually, levied by the local authority and based on the registered value. The rates are different for urban and rural properties and the total is typically about 1.6%.
For offshore companies the rate has been increased to 5%.
Tax on a Deemed Rental Income
Where a property is owned by an offshore company, it is treated as having produced a rental income, which is charged to income tax, of one-fifteenth of the registered value.
There are other taxes, which have to be taken into account and these are:-
Income Tax
Where a property is rented out, the rent is charged to income tax and on a sale 50% of the chargeable capital gain is subject to Portuguese income tax.
Stamp Duty
There is a stamp duty of 0.8% on the transfer of the real estate.
Donations Tax
Gifts to a spouse, antecedent or descendent are tax-free but other donations attract a tax of 10%.
A Solution
Fortunately there are territories, which are not on the Portuguese black list and by purchasing a property in Portugal through a properly structured corporate vehicle incorporated in one of these locations. It is possible to avoid the penalties on offshore companies. These arrangements may bring with them other benefits such as:
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The ability to sell the property in the future without the buyer having to pay Real Estate Transfer tax
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Avoidance of Portuguese capital gains tax on re-sale
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Avoidance of donations tax or inheritance tax
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Avoidance of the deemed benefit provisions in U.K. law.
As taxes and the manner in which they are applied change frequently specialist advice should always be taken before entering into any arrangements.
The Chesterfield Group provides a full range of trustee, and corporate advisory, formation and management services and invites enquiries. More particulars can be found on our web-site www.chesterfield-management.com
Why an Algarve Vacation?
By Jennifer Dodds
 The Southern-most region of Portugal, Algarve is a holiday-maker’s dream. Wonderful year-round weather, great beaches, fabulous scenery and – best of all – the local people!
Algarveans are a tolerant, laid-back lot, who have seen much change in the several decades since their region started to become a tourist magnet. Some of the age-old ways of life (such as small-scale fishing) continue undisturbed by the leisure-seeking visitors who are drawn to this lovely area.
Most who sample the attractions of Algarve become converted enthusiasts. If you love warm places, sand and sea and generally relaxed holidays, then Algarve is your dream destination.
It’s a compact area, only some 90 miles by 30 miles at its furthest extremities – but it’s home to over 100 miles of gorgeous sandy beaches.
While, for those who don’t mind leaving the coast behind for a while, the region is steeped in history, and has much to delight the visitor’s eye. Much of the Algarve’s heritage has been preserved, especially in the profusion of Moorish-influenced architecture on show. And the contrasts, between coast and mountains, sand and greenery, modernity and history, offer visitors many choices of how to spend an Algarve vacation.
The region’s ancient past is positively celebrated, and most sizeable towns boast a local museum that shows relics from Roman times – and even earlier.
Algarveans are proud of their distinct culture and some of the diversion on offer to the holiday-maker is even free (concerts and gallery admissions spring to mind from my last visit). Whatever the month of year, there’s usually a Saint’s day that gives rise to a colourful festival, in which the locals take a whole-hearted part.
Public transport within the region is efficient and cheap, which serves to keep the tourist dollars and Euros circulating, while allowing holiday-makers to sample more than just the tourist areas.
Even a tour of either the western or eastern halves of Algarve can be undertaken within a single day (although it helps to have your itinerary sorted before you set out). And a meal at an inland restaurant during the return journey to your holiday accommodation will likely prove cheaper than one taken in the tourist-populated coastal areas (a bonus for the more adventurous tourist!).
Which leads me to a rather obvious question: why am I sitting here writing this, instead of making a booking with my friendly local travel agent?
About The Author
Jennifer Dodds is the owner of www.algarve-beach-life.com her enthusiast website, where she shares everything she loves (and is still discovering) about her favourite vacation spot. She publishes a monthly newsletter, Algarve Beach Life News to update subscribers about what’s new on the site.
Golfing in the Algarve
By Seb Jay
 Only two to three hours away by air from most of Europe’s major airports is the sunny Algarve in Southern Portugal. Known for its spectacular coastline and rugged mountain scenery the Algarve is one of Europe’s premier golfing destinations. There are no less than 24 golf courses spread out along this most southern province of Portugal, several of which are classified as championship golf courses hosting many international golfing events.
Most of the golf courses can be found to the West of Faro, including the famous San Lorenzo course – rated as the second-best course in Europe. Set in splendid surroundings of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, the San Lorenzo course has become a ‘must play’ course for all those who come to visit the Algarve for its golf. There are some challenging holes and tricky water features to negotiate around the course, and when coupled with the amazing scenery, it makes for an epic round of golf.
Further along the Algarve coastline is the Royal Course at Vale de Lobo. Incorporating fairways and greens set in an undulating landscape of pine trees, the Royal Course serves up a fine golfing experience for all who come here. The course includes the famous par 3 9th hole, which takes players over a beautiful lake and onto a semi-island green – it’s a challenge for even the most experienced of golfers! But, if you fancy a sea view then you might be more at home at Vale de Lobo’s other course – the Ocean Course.
The Ocean Course is set along undulating cliffs that descend down to golden sandy beaches. Narrow fairways are a feature of this course, as are the ochre coloured rocks that line the cliff sides and snake along the course edge. Adding to the challenge golf players must compensate for sea breezes that regularly caress the course. All in all, it makes for a memorable round of golf.
South West Portugal
Eight of the Algarve’s twenty-four courses are situated in the Southwest. Within 20-minutes of Faro is the Vale do Milho – an ideal practice course on which beginners can learn the game and holidaymakers can sharpen their golfing skills. A little further to the west is Quinta do Gramacho – Europe’s first ‘double-nine’ designed course, with only 9 fairways but 18 holes. If you want a unique golfing experience, then Quinta do Gramacho is the perfect course on which to play.
For those on a tour of the golf courses in the Algarve, the Alto Golf course is sure worth a visit. Situated close to the coastline it offers fine views of the sea and the nearby mountains. The course was designed by Sir Henry Cotton – three-times British Open Champion – and takes in fairways and greens along some beautiful undulating terrain surrounded by vineyards.
Finally, no golfing visit to the Algarve is complete without playing a round of golf at Penina. Located close to the fishing village of Alvor. Penina was the first grass course in the Algarve. It is rated as one of Europe’s finest and plays host to a range of international tournaments each year.
Visitor Information
Faro is the main international airport in the Algarve. Most of the golf courses are located to the west of the Algarve, Parque de Floresta golf course – the Algarve’s most westerly course – being just under an hour’s drive from the airport. Car hire is available from Faro airport.
Portugal’s Silver Coast Property Investing
The Silver Coast extends from Castelo de Paiva at the north end to Arruda dos Vinhos in the south. It also has the largest motorway in the country, running the length of the coast. Even those who do not directly visit the Silver Coast are likely to be wowed as they pass through on their way from Lisbon to Oporto.
Primarily, the Silver Coast is made up of small, traditional fishing villages, although as time goes by, more holiday resorts with new build apartments and hotels are appearing along the previously untouched coast line. A classic example of this is the village of Nazare, which has a wonderful sandy beach surrounded by hotels and apartments, whereas further away from the beach, heading up towards the hills, there are nothing but traditional fishing villages and local residents.
Although the name Silver Coast suggests that the entire region is made up of beach resorts, there is, however, also a large amount of inland space which is equally beautiful. Many rivers run through the Silver Coast area, which keep the inland regions fertile and perfect for growing crops such as grapes, fruit and rice.
The great thing about the Silver Coast is the variety of different styles of property that are available to purchase. At one end of the scale it is possible to purchase a 700 square metre plot of land in order to develop your own property, for less than 70,000 Euros. One of the best ways to invest in the Silver Coast region is to look at the new build apartments that are being developed across the country. By purchasing a new build apartment with sea views, in a popular holiday resort, investors can make the most of the long summer season and the positive tourist market. New build apartments are available from as little as 100,000 Euros and very few sell for more than 250,000 Euros.
Modern tourists were not the first to discover the beauty of Portugal’s Silver Coast; the Portuguese royal family regularly visits the ancient city of Leiria which is very close to Lisbon. This beautiful city makes a perfect retreat for the family, as it acts as a good base in order to visit the impressive abbeys of Batalha and Alcobaca.
For those in search of a bit more action, there is the famous resort of Figueira de Foz, which is still one of the most important towns. It was the ancient capital of Portugal, although these days it is better known for its enormous casino!
These well developed areas are an excellent investment for those looking for instant rental and good long-term prospects. It is also a reasonably safe prospect as these regions have had considerable government investment, in order to ensure their success. However, those investors who are looking for a bargain may be better off considering under-developed areas and small villages where the really cheap properties can still be found. Of course, this approach is higher risk, but there is the possibility of huge capital gains.
Whatever you are looking for as a property investment, Portugal’s Silver Coast is bound to be able to come up with something to suit you. So get in there, before you get priced out of this booming region!
Providing essential information on buying Portugal property, Tem Pearson is dedicated to offering all the necessary information for people looking to buy property in Portugal . Visit www.buying-property-abroad.info/Portugal.
Cruising Portugal – Rio Guadiana
By Richard Toyne
 Although well-known for its sunshine, it’s very obvious when autumn arrives in the Algarve. The evenings become cool and the weather unsettled, and Atlantic depressions bring heavy rain and a big swell.
We had first visited Villa Real de Santo Antonio, at the mouth of the Rio Guadiana, in 1998 on our wooden gaff cutter. At the time we were hurrying to get to Gibraltar and our engine had a badly slipping gearbox, so we did not stay and explore. Revisiting the area, however, on our 34ft ketch, Sigfrid, the autumnal weather made the idea of travelling up a river very appealing.
We were told there was no chart of the river but that the navigation was simple: ‘Just stay in the middle’.
So we bought a motorists’ map of the Algarve, which at least enlightened us to the names of the places that we passed.
The Rio Guadiana forms the border between Spain and Portugal for the first 25 miles. Above this, the river splits. The Guadiana heads into Portugal while the Rio Chanca has been dammed to form a large reservoir in Spain.
Many miles upstream from the navigable part of the Guadiana it again returns to the border between Spain and Portugal, before finally breaking off into Spain, close to Badajoz.
The tide flows strongly in and out of the estuary and also through the yacht harbour in Villa Real de Santo Antonio. We had entered the river on a rising tide and berthed in the marina bows-on to the current. The day we set off to explore the Guadiana we left just after low water. This made manoeuvring in the marina as easy as possible and made the best use of the current in the river.
Deep into the country
 One of the few limitations of living on and travelling with our boat is that we rarely see the interior of the countries we visit. Normally the experience and exploration is confined to the coastal areas and harbours. Travelling up a river made an interesting change, taking us deep into the countryside.
People we had spoken to had talked of sailing up the Rio Guadiana. For some boats this may be an option. Sigfrid, however, is a long-keeler, and the river was definitely far too narrow for us to consider tacking in it.
About two miles upstream of the marina is a large road bridge. Pagan, my partner Magali’s old boat, had a 15m mast, and she had passed underneath with no problems, but as we approached in Sigfrid with her 12m mast it still looked frighteningly low.
Once under the bridge you start to feel you are leaving the sea behind. The wide, busy estuary with its fishing boats and ferries gives way to a river meandering into the countryside. We did meet the occasional ferry as far inland as Alcoutim, but mainly we had the river to ourselves.
As we motored up the Rio Guadiana we passed many farms separated by woodland or wilder, more rocky, ground. In some areas the hills have a soft rounded shape and the patchwork of fields and pastures looks similar to Devon or Cornwall. In others, the eucalyptus, olive, almond and orange trees come down to the water’s edge. In one particular stretch, just above Puerto de la Laja, the calm muddy water and lush vegetation gave the river an almost tropical look, reminiscent of some of the rivers in Senegal. However, the reeds are the most typical feature of the Guadiana, growing in dense thickets on the banks, or in isolated clumps on the marshy ground where the fields meet the water.
The farming appears to belong to an earlier age. Sheep and goats wander freely over patches of rough pasture, while larger flocks are watched over by a shepherd. With few roads close to the river, pack animals are still used, and you often see horses laden with goods being led along the tracks. At anchor you can hear the clanking of the sheep bells, the barking of dogs and the distinctive bray of a donkey.
There are several hamlets along the river and nearly all of them have small pontoons and visitors’ moorings. The buoys are free, with a small charge of the pontoons, which generally have water and electricity. The two largest villages we saw were Alcoutim and Sanlucar do Guadiana, both of which had shops and small supermarkets.
At the end of our first day, we anchored about half a mile downstream from Pomarao, a port that once exported copper. You can still see the remains of the old loading quays. As our map showed a road bridge at Pomarao, we had assumed this to be the navigable head of the river. In fact the bridge no longer exists, but it turned out that we were lucky to anchor where we did.
So far, the advice to keep in the middle had been perfectly adequate. However, we were told that night that there was a rocky bar just upstream from our anchorage, before the village. The river is reputed to be navigable as far inland as Mertola, but to go further required local knowledge and careful use of the tides.
This far up the Guadiana the water is fresh, but the currents still flow strongly, carrying large piles of floating reeds, branches and other natural flotsam. While we were on the move we avoided them, but once at anchor Sigfrid quickly gathered a mat of reeds around the anchor chain and bow. To the other anchored boats, these weren’t a problem, but to our liveaboard cats they looked like islands ready for exploration, so we cleared them with the boathook at each tide.
Wildlife
 We saw lots of wildlife on the river. Near the mouth there were storks, while further up we saw kingfishers, egrets, wild ducks and an osprey. In some of the creeks there are terrapins, and it’s possible to see wild boar and deer.
After five days in the Rio Guadiana, and despite the continuing autumnal weather, Sigfrid and her crew once again felt the call of the open sea. We did, however, have one more trip to make, which became the most beautiful and rewarding trip on the river.
We wanted to visit some friends, who had a cottage in Puerto de la Laja. We had motored back down to Alcoutim, and to have a fair current, we dropped the mooring at first light and motored gently upstream. The still water was slate-grey, disturbed only by Sigfrid’s wake forming a long vee. Ahead of us, the mist rose from the water in soft white tendrils. The sun began to rise, illuminating the hills on the western bank in gold. By the time we reached Puerto de la Laja, the sun shone on the clumps of reeds and isolated trees while the surface of the water remained shrouded in mist.
After a pleasant morning with our friends, we headed downstream. Having been thrilled by the river, and the new discoveries around each bend, we were now eager to return to the sea. The river widened steadily, the tidal range increased, and it was not long before we once again experienced the familiar smell of saltwater as we neared the estuary.
Richard Toyne, 36 worked as a hydrographic surveyor before meeting his partner, Magali, in Falmouth. They sailed from England in Spring 1998.
Eco-Homes in Western Algarve
By Philippa Forrester
 THE Algarve may be an unlikely place for a property revolution to take root; and a developer might be one of the last people you might think would be at its helm.
But that is exactly what is happening at a project on the western Algarve that is ditching the golfing green in favour of the eco-home.
AlmaVerde (which means green soul), a development of luxury villas built with the environment in mind, is the brainchild of retired businessman John Tranmer, who says that he was driven not only by a desire to make money but to do so in keeping with the ethos of his company, Elixir; to promote the sustainable and energy-efficient use of resources and have consideration for the natural environment.
Buildings are responsible for half of the world’s total energy consumption and half of the resulting carbon dioxide emissions. “Developers, architects and engineers building new developments really do have an opportunity to contribute in terms of demonstrating
and adopting better practices. It’s an opportunity to make a difference”, says Tranmer.
AlmaVerde’s villas, townhouses and apartments are close to unspoilt beaches, stunning coastline and the Costa Vicentina Nature Reserve. Wildlife enthusiasts will not have to travel far to spot bee-eaters and hoopoes, while hill trails take cyclists and walkers past rock rose, pine, cork oak and strawberry trees.
Construction on the site, 10km west of Lagos, will be restricted to 10 per cent of the land area; one third of the 36-hectare site will be given over to streets, paths, recreational areas, public gardens and parkland. None of the buildings will be higher than two storeys.
The developers have pledged to preserve the indigenous flora and fauna of a site set among mature oak, pine and carob trees. Drought-tolerant plants will populate the landscape gardens to reduce the need for watering, while the roads will be replaced by green pathways. The real green genius of the development, however, lies in some of the systems employed by Jes Mainwaring, the award-winning architect, in the build and design of the properties. A mix of traditional and modern methods ensures that the homes are cool in the summer and warm in the winter, without taking too much of a toll on the environment. Air-conditioning will not be installed in the houses, for example. In its place, the Coolhouse system, based on practices used thousands of years ago, draws cool air from 2m under ground, where temperatures hover around 14C, and delivers it through vents into the properties. The fans circulate that circulate the air use less electricity than a light bulb.
The homes are built with traditional sun-dried adobe bricks, made from clay excavated and moulded on site, which reduces environmental impact from their production and keeps transport to a minimum. Moreover, when used in building, the bricks have a high thermal mass, providing good insulation and helping to control the humidity that makes fungal growth a common problem in properties on the Algarve – one that is often solved by using anti-fungal paints and agents that go against the grain of the environment-conscious buyer.
Other features include overhanging roofs, which provide shelter from the heat of the summer sun, while allowing the building to be heated by the rays of a sun that sits lower in the winter sky. Water consumption is reduced by 6-litre flush lavatories and there are recycling facilities within the development. A composting scheme is planned for the future.
One notable eco-omission is the absence of solar panels. They were left out, says Tranmer, because the technology was not financially attractive at the time that the project was going through the planning process seven years ago. the developers are considering the inclusion of solar energy in the next phases of the project.
The interiors pass muster too: natural materials such as granite worktops in the kitchen, natural stone floors and extensive use of wood are more luxury pad than hippy commune. The 130 villas, ranging from 500 to more than 4,000 square metres, 28 townhouses and 68 apartments will be released for sale in late summer next year. Villas will cost from Euro 470,000 to more than Euro 1 million.
AlmaVerde will have a dedicated broadband data network that will deliver high-speed internet and intranet services as well as digital home entertainment packages. Leisure facilities will include outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a restaurant, tennis courts and a spa. Details are still on the drawing board, but one thing is certain: the theme is green.
AlmaVerde: www.almaverde.com, including site plan; 00 351 282 697857/9.
Golfing Vacations in the North of Portugal!
by Peter Evens
 Want to get away for a while but don't know where to go or what to do? Why not plan a golf vacation in the North of Portugal? Just a short plane trip away, and you land in Oporto, and the unspoilt part of Portugal. Relax a while in the beauty of the Northern region, and at the same time play some great golf courses.
Golf vacations or golf holidays are getting more and more popular these days. Apart from having a good selection of golf courses, golf vacations are also popular as they can combine golf and other activities, into first class vacations.
The North of Portugal really is a One-stop destination for a great holiday.
Everything is at hand; from luxury hotels, to fine golf hotels; great restaurants, or casinos to relax in; with river cruises, or Port wine tours; and with challenging golf on links, hills or even mountain golf courses. What more could you possibly ask for?
With the first tee time at 9.00am and no one either in front or behind - 'millionaires golf' is a phrase often used but this is a time that it can be used in the true sense of the word.
Good value for money is possible, as it's not so commercial as the Algarve. First consider your budget and then find yourself a Tour company based in the North, and they can organise a great tour programme for you, at a very reasonable price. After all, they will provide you with first hand information and make the necessary arrangements for you. This will save you time, money and a whole lot of problems.
They will also be able to arrange plenty for the rest of your family to do if they are not golfers like you, while you are out on the course. The best part about heading to the North of Portugal for a vacation is that you can always take your clubs with you. You can enjoy some rounds while on holiday, and there will still be plenty for your family and friends (who are non-golfers) to do. Get the best of both worlds and a lovely vacation, and keep everybody happy!
There is an element of mañana in the North, that only helps in providing the element of relaxation.
Finally the man out who is pulling the strings to put North Portugal on the map is being undertaken by an Englishman, Mr. Peter Evens. For a family vacation or Society golf tour, he works very closely with golf courses, hotels and tour companies, in an attempt to promote golf in North Portugal. If you want to know more have a look at the website:
http://www.portgolf.com or email him at portgolf@netcabo.pt and you will not be disappointed.
About the author:
Peter Evens is running "PortGolf Holidays", and lives and works in North Portugal, arranging individual holidays, golf tours, corporate events, river cruises, wine tours and so much more...!
The Algarve - Playground of Portugal
by Felicity Walker
 The Algarve area of Portugal, which covers the southern-most part of the country, is an incredibly diverse region. Any holidaymaker can find an enjoyable way of filling their holiday hours. Add in a warm, sunny climate almost year round, and it's hardly surprising that the Algarve region is the major tourist area in Portugal.
With all that sunshine, naturally many holidaymakers come in search of beaches, and they're not disappointed. With around 270km of coastline, including everything from wide sandy beaches to secluded inlets, there's something for everyone. Add to that a wide variety of accommodation with luxury resorts near bustling towns to quiet villages, and there's no doubt everyone is catered for.
The easiest way to travel to the Algarve from overseas is via airplane to Faro. This is the region's main town and commercial hub, but is still a pleasant place to visit. Most of the town was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, but even so, there are interesting buildings dotted around
the town that are worth visiting. There is also a small remnant of the old town, Cidade Velha, and a walking tour through this area is fascinating.
 The towns of Tavira and Silves are also highlights of the Algarve region for those with an historic interest. Tavira encompasses everything from castle ruins, churches from a range of architectural periods and elegant houses from various centuries. Silves was once the Moorish capital of the Algarve, and its main claim to fame is the magnificent red stone castle which overlooks the town today.
For those who like more modern entertainment and a slightly faster pace, there is plenty of nightlife to be found in either Lagos or Albufeira. Even better, there are plenty of sandy beaches where you can lie back and recover! Lagos also suffered terribly in the 1755 earthquake, with very little surviving apart from the old town wall.
If you'd rather spend your time being entertained by mother nature, then the Algarve can deliver. Close to Faro is the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. This is basically an extensive lagoon system which is home to an enormous number of wetland birds, as well as forming a vital link in the migration chain. The park's visitor centre is excellent.
 You can also head further west, and watch the coastline become more rugged. Cabo de São Vicente (Cape St Vincent) is Europe's most southwesterly point. Barren and majestic, it's certainly an awe inspiring place to visit - but be prepared to face the strong winds that often batter the Cape.
The western coast of the Algarve is home to the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina. This narrow strip of park was created in 1995 to amalgamate a number of smaller parks, in the hope of protecting the ecosystem from rampant development. This area is also home to many birds.
There are plenty of places to stay along the west coast of the Algarve, as well as beaches, however the Atlantic is a little rougher on this side and in places can be quite dangerous. Keen surfers are often to be found in this region.
It's worth visiting the inland part of the Algarve as well. There are a number of mountain ranges, with the Serra de Monchique being the most popular.
And if all else fails - the Algarve is home to a large number of golf courses, including 7 of Europe's top 100 courses.
The Algarve is an incredibly diverse region, it's hard to imagine that anyone could possibly visit without finding something of interest to see or do. So make sure you schedule a visit there soon.
About the author:
Travelling is a much loved past time for the author. To find out more, check out http://www.travelportugalinfozone.com for more information.
Total Emersion in Lisbon Portugal
By Jack Blacksmith
If you go sightseeing and do the typical tourism around the city, you will learn a lot about Lisbon history, hear the fascinating story of the earthquake in 1755 and see the effects of these disastrous events even though many beautiful and interesting monuments still remain. But for someone who has done similar sightseeing of this city and others around it like Porto, Fatima, Faro and Albufeira, there is another important part of Lisbon, Portugal where you can learn its history, past and present. Let us dive into the juicy world of wine and its history.
Lisbon, Portugal and its wines
 On the outskirts of Lisbon, there are four grape growing regions. To the west, just a little north of Estoril is the region called Carcavelos. This wine, like many other wines in Lisbon, got its good reputation thanks to the alliance with the English. It is a wine with a full-bodied flavour with an after taste of nuts, from moderately to semi-sweet. Colares, going towards the north east, makes some of the most unusual wines around. The city is found between the hills of Sintra to the east and the Atlantic beaches to the west. The variety of grape used, a small dark blue one, is grown in the sands of the Atlantic Ocean. As you can imagine, the process is a very arduous one because the roots must be planted in the Mesozoic layer of clay. Thanks to this thick and protective type of land, the grapevines that are used today survived the great plague which hit  Europe in 1870. Therefore, the plants and wines are just as they were a hundred years ago. See how much history you can learn! These wines are half-bodied and leave your mouth with a concentrated flavour. For a more finer and fragranced bouquet, a cleaner and drier flavour although with a slight marked acidity, go for a Bucelas wine. These vineyards are about 25 kilometres northeast of Lisbon, being grown on the clay hillside and in the ground near the valley of the River Trancao. The majority of these wines are young ones and do not spend much time in barrels but are very popular among other countries of the European Community. So, it is up to the traveller to find a good aged Bucelas. One that has spent quite a few years n Brazilian oak barrels before it has been bottled, making it a fruitful and more exotic flavour. The aged ones are considered to be among the best wines in Portugal.
Courtesy of Oporto
 The Portuguese wines are world famous thanks to oporto wine from Porto, their eminent ambassador which has been made since 1830 with the collaboration of the British. With along and fascinating history, the oporto wine has won its place among other great sweet wines like the sauternes, tokai and Madeira. It is reinforced wine whose grapes have been cultivated in the mountainous and rugged terrain of the High Deuro. It can be either white or red, although it is the red wine which has been given fame. When a wine is said to be reinforced, it means that the natural conversion of the sugars in the grapes alcohol have been stopped at a determined moment when the addition of Portuguese grape liqueur has been added. This addition increases the alcoholic concentration between 15 and 24 percent, making it an energetic and moderately sweet wine.
Flying from Lisbon to Madeira
 Even if you are not used to drinking many different wines, you cannot help but to have heard about Madeira wine through good friends, at a meeting or on the television. From the 16th Century, the island of Madeira was frequented by sailors making their long journeys to the New World and used Madeira as a stop-over, to relax in its paradisical atmosphere and, why not, drink its national product. There are four types of wine: Sercial which is the driest, pale in colour with a light body and drunk with an appetizer. Verdelho is a medium dry wine also used for appetizers with soups. Malmsey wine is the richest with its full-bodied twang, sweet and therefore, best with desserts. And lastly is Bual with a smoky savour, medium-bodied and slightly sweet so it would go best with desserts or cheeses. Madeira wine is aged in barrels anywhere from three to sixteen years so that they can be classified on the labels as vintage. Vintage wines are only made from the most select grapes and therefore the weather also plays an important role in each years quality.
And
after having done the wine route, flying on down to the most southern region to Faro or Albufeira to soak up some rays laying on the terraces of some of the best hotels as the weather is usually quite nice many months of the year. Or visit the nearby town of Tavira, one of the oldest and most enchanting in the Algarve region, just a stone’s throw away from Lisbon, Portugal.
About the Author:
Jack Blacksmith is a successful author and regular contributor to the specialised website: http://www.lisbon-and-portugal.com Jack is specialising in subjects like history and culture.
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