From the sun kissed sands of the south, to the rolling mountains and vineyards of the north, a luxury holiday to Portugal has so much to offer. The shining jewel of Portugal is no doubt the Algarve. The southern shoreline enjoys over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and is quite rightly one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe for those looking to relax on the coast. What’s even more impressive though are the world-renowned golf courses you can visit here, perfect for teeing off with sea views and rolling hills.

The Algarve is famous for its breathtaking cliffs, golden beaches, lush bays and sandy islands, as well as its picturesque fishing villages and harbours. During the day, you can spend time relaxing on the sundrenched sands or swimming, sailing and snorkelling in the ocean. This region in mainland Portugal is also renowned for its variety of high-end golf resorts, which attract players from around the world.

Nature-lovers can head to the Parque da Ria Formosa, which stretches for 60 kilometres along the coast from Faro to Cacela Velha. Here, you can explore the marshes, salt pans, creeks and dune hills. The park is also a great place for bird watching. For some retail therapy in the Algarve, visit bustling towns such as Portimao and Lagos, where you’ll find an array of stylish shops and boutiques. Other attractions across the region include the rugged cliffs of Cape St Vincent, the undulating Monchique Mountains and the historic town of Silves.

The Algarve is known for its mouth-watering cuisine. Feast on everything from simple dishes of grilled sardines finished with lemon juice and olive oil to flame cooked meats and flavour-packed sun ripened vegetables.

Other areas of mainland Portugal that are a hit with discerning holidaymakers include the Douro Valley with its terraced vineyards and Sintra with its verdant hills and distinctive architecture. You might also want to add the country’s capital Lisbon to your travel wish list. Characterised by its pretty cobbled alleyways and punctuated with ancient ruins, this postcard-perfect city is rich in culture and history. Offering the perfect mix of the old and the new, it makes for a vibrant, action-packed holiday destination.