Portugal is the nation of colourful cities, beautiful coastline and rich history. Lisbon and Porto frequently hog the limelight but the true beauty of Portugal is in her small, unheard-of villages. These gems of the sea are what give the tourists a real experience of what it was like to live in Portugal, not among the tourist masses. To get the keys to these magical places, UAE citizens planning to travel to Portugal seeking to enjoy its serene side will need to book your Portugal visa from Dubai.
The Beauty of the Portuguese Hidaways.
The country is covered with villages of Portugal which have their own landscape, traditions, and culture. These villages, with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and a slow-paced style of life, contrast with the busy cities, especially through the mountainous regions in the north to the southern plains.
1. Monsanto: Village between Rocks.
Located in the very heart of Portugal, Monsanto is sometimes referred to as the most Portuguese village in Portugal. The ancient houses and their tiny streets are constructed around massive boulders, forming a surreal landscape. Monsanto is like a time traveler where all the corners speak of hope and continuity. Local craftsmen continue to use ancient crafts and guests can taste local cheeses, breads and local wines.
2. Obidos: Medievalist Masterpiece.
The town of Obidos is among the best maintained medieval towns in Portugal. Enclosed by the old walls, this village is known to have beautiful streets with whitewashed houses filled with colorful flowers. The tourists are able to view the aged castle, walk around the pave-surfaced streets as well to sample the local cherry liqueur, Ginja. Obidos is especially enchanted during festivals, where they get a preview of what the Portuguese customarily celebrate.
3. Sortelha: A Step Back in Time
A small village, Sortelha, on the edge of the Spanish border has preserved much of its medieval architecture. Its stone houses, small streets, and its views of the nearby landscape make Sortelha a paradise both to a photographer and a history lover. The peace that the village offers is ideal to vacationers looking to experience a peaceful escape away.
4. Marvão: A Village in the Sky
Located on a tall hill in the Alentejo district, Marvao has spectacular views of the Portuguese plains. It is characterized by an attractive castle, medieval wall, and narrow streets that meander through old houses that characterize the village. Marvao is perfect to hiking lovers and nature admirers as it offers access to beautiful paths and tranquil environment.
5. Piódão: The Schist Village
Piodao in the mountains of Serra do Acaor impresses tourists with its slate-built houses and narrow and winding streets. This isolated village appears to exist in the past and it provides a true Portuguese experience. The village is known to have traditional foods including goat cheese, homemade sausages, and stews, which the local residents have accepted with great warmth.
Local Culture and Traditions.
There is no need to visit these villages only to see something; it is about the local culture. There are lots of traditional celebrations in many villages, folk-music performances and even cuisine peculiar to the village. Travelers can explore the Portuguese rich heritage in more depth by staying in family-run guesthouses or by attending local workshops.
Culinary Delights
The villages of Portugal are a food heaven. Fresh baked bread, local cheeses, country stews, pastry, every village has its own specials. Tasting local dishes offers one a glimpse of what life in Portugal was like, without the tourist-friendly menus of the cities.
Arts and Crafts
Traditional crafts, pottery, weaving and embroidery, are being maintained by artisans in these villages. To take a part of Portugal home, visitors have an opportunity to see small workshops, meet craftsmen and even buy handmade souvenirs.
How to travel to the villagers in Portugal.
- Pre-plan: In some villages, there is a lack of transport accessibility and it is good to plan beforehand. The most common means of exploring these areas is by renting a car.
- Stay Local: Select local guesthouses or small inns to feel a local hospitality.
- Take the Slows: The life in these villages is slow. Slow down and look around, have a break.
- Talk Local Dough: Talking with locals can help open up some of the usual places and local customs that guidebooks tend to overlook.
- Observing Traditions: In most villages, centuries-old traditions are observed. Be sensitive and considerate as you engage in cultural events.
The Villages of Portugal are a Must-See.
Villages of Portugal are so charming in their true nature and calmness. They are a magical way out of a big city with spectacular views, historic buildings and a very kind and hospitable culture. These villages make visitors remember that simpler slower lifestyle, and each trip to the village is a pleasant adventure into the core of Portugal.
As a UAE traveler, visiting these off-the-beaten-path places is now within their reach, with proper planning. Getting your Portugal visa in Dubai will guarantee a hassle-free beginning of your adventure as you can see the uncovered secrets of the country without any inconvenience.
Conclusion
Hushpuppy villages of Portugal can be regarded as a tribute to the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the country. Through medieval streets and high-on-the-hill castles, all the villages have a particular experience that cannot be discovered by the guide-books and the city tours. These villages offer memories that will last a lifetime whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of nature or a lover of food. To those who are planning to travel, getting a Dubai visa through Go Kite Travel will make their traveling experience easier and will make exploring the beautiful villages in Portugal as good of a vacation as the destination.
