Portimao, Portugal

Walk Portimao’s Promenade

The breathtaking scenery of Portugal’s southernmost region has long made the Algarve region a magnet for those seeking winter sun. And Portimão is a perfect example: golden sandy beaches beneath dramatic cliffs, the aroma of fresh sardines on the grill and some of the best golf courses in Europe - what could be better? This, maybe: the fabulous Autodromo Algarve Racing School, better known as the Poritmao Circuit puts you behind the wheel of a professional F1 racecar on a F1 track, pretty hard to beat.

Of course, you may not like racecars. Then it’s Praia da Roche, the huge beach right in the center of town, with a long avenue to wander. Or Praia Grande - one of the region's finest beaches complete with a 16th century castle.

Of course, you may not like the beach. So there’s the award-winning Museum de Portico, housed in a 19th century fish cannery - archaeology, underwater finds, and, the most fascinating, a recreation of the old fish cannery. Or tour the award-winning winery, Quinta da Penina, and taste the renowned Foral de Portimão wine. Or play golf at the beautiful championship course of Penina or the courses near Silves. Golf in the Algarve region is amazing.

This everyone will like – food. Here, any simple restaurant promises the freshest sea bass, lightly grilled, drizzled with olive oil and accompanied by a salad of tomatoes that burst with flavor and a chilled white Vinho Verde. What could be better?