Portugal - GEOGRAPHY GEOGRAPHY Portugal Table of Contents Portugal shares the Iberian Peninsula with Spain, although it is only about one-sixth as large as its neighbor. Including the Azores (A�ores in Portuguese) and Madeira, the country has a total area of 92,080 square kilometers. Portugal lies on the westernmost promontory of continental Europe. The rugged Pyrenees Mountains separate Iberia from the heart of the European continent, and Portugal is even further distant across the vastness of Spain. Distance and isolation have created in Portugal a sense that it is a part of Europe geographically but apart from it culturally, socially, economically, politically, and even psychologically. Even in the early 1990s, Lisbon (Lisboa in Portuguese) was a two-to-three-day drive from Paris . Portugal is bounded on the west and south by the Atlantic Ocean and on the north and east by Spain. The country's shape is roughly that of a rectangle, with its short sides on the north and south and its long sides on the east and west.

Portugal's Atlantic coastline is 837 kilometers long; its northern and eastern frontiers with Spain are 336 and 839 kilometers long, respectively. Historically, Portugal emerged as a separate country during centuries of struggle with the Spanish provinces of Le�n and Castile. Even hundreds of years after breaking away from Spain for the last time in 1640, fears remained in Portugal that it might one day be swallowed up by larger and more powerful Spain, perhaps not militarily, but culturally and economically. That sentiment is expressed by the Portuguese proverb that "neither a good wind nor a good marriage ever come from Spain." Meanwhile, Portugal's long coast has given it an "Atlantic vocation" and propelled its historic ventures of global exploration and colonization. Portugal is not a homogeneous country geographically. The physical environment varies enormously, creating several distinct geographic regions that, in turn, have shaped the culture of the people and their economy and society. Northern Portugal is a mountainous, rainy region, characterized by many small farms and vineyards. The Portuguese nation began in this region, fending off Le�n and Castile while simultaneously driving the Moors south and eventually out of the peninsula.

It is a desolate area of rocky hillsides where smallholders have eked out a meager existence for hundreds of years. This region is also said to be the origin of the strongest Portuguese national values of hard work, thrift, traditionalism, Roman Catholicism, and practicality. It is also an area, however, that has lost many of its inhabitants through emigration. Central Portugal, between the Rio Douro in the north and the Rio Tejo (Tagus River in English), including the capital city of Lisbon and its environs, is less homogeneous. The central coastal region consists of dunes and pine forests, and many residents of the area earn their livelihood from fishing. The central eastern areas, known as the Beira, consist of mainly small and medium-sized farms, with some mining and light industry. The greater Lisbon area, including both the city and its suburbs, accounts for most of the nation's commerce and much of its industry. Southern Portugal, known as the Alentejo (literally, "beyond the Tejo") is an area of gently rolling hills and plains dominated by extensive estates with large-scale agriculture and grazing. It was traditionally also a land of often embittered tenant farmers and peasants.

In contrast to the conservative north, the Alentejo was an area of radical political movements; for a long time, the Portuguese Communist Party (Partido Comunista Portugu�s--PCP) was the strongest party in the region. The extreme south of Portugal is known as the Algarve. It is a dry region of smallholdings, grazing, and fishing, and coastal towns. This is the area of Portugal most strongly influenced by the Moors; even today the Moorish influence is present in the region's dialect and architecture. With its warm climate and Mediterranean sky, the Algarve has also become a center for tourism and a home to many foreign retirees. Historically, Portugal was divided administratively into six provinces that corresponded closely to these natural geographic divisions. The north consisted of two provinces, the coastal Minho and the interior Tr�s-os-Montes. The center was made up of Beira and Estremadura, and the south consisted of the Alentejo and the Algarve. Later these historical provinces were further subdivided for administrative purposes, but the historical names have been retained in popular usage. Even though it is a small country, Portugal has a wide variety of landforms, climatic conditions, and soils.

The major difference is between the mountainous regions of the north and, across the Rio Tejo, the great rolling plains of the south. Within these two major regions are further subdivisions that reflect the country's vast differences. The Minho and Tr�s-os-Montes are both mountainous, but whereas the former is green with abundant rainfall, the latter is dry and parched. The Beira Litoral and Estremadura are younger geologically and contain sandstone, limestone, and volcanic rock. Beira Alta (Upper Beira) is mountainous and forms a barrier across the center of Portugal, but Beira Baixa (Lower Beira) is dry and windswept, an extension of the Spanish plateau. The Alentejo consists of gentle hills and plains. Because it is one of the driest areas in the country, it is not suitable for intensive agriculture. The area does support cattle raising, as well as cork oak and some grains. It is separated from the Algarve by two mountain ranges, the Serra de Monchique and the Serra do Caldeirao. Geography and topography are also reflected in the climate. The mountainous regions of the north are considerably colder than the south.

Winter snows in the Serra da Estr�la (which contains Portugal's highest peak at 1,986 meters) and the Serra do Ger�s near the northern Spanish border may block roads for a time. The weather along the northern coasts and in the center of the country is milder; Lisbon has an average high temperature of 14�C in January and 27�C in August. Southern Portugal is warmer. The ocean moderates coastal temperatures, but the interior of the Alentejo can be quite warm, with temperatures sometimes above 40�C during the summer months. Because of its Mediterranean climate, most of Portugal's rainfall occurs in the winter, the north receiving much more rain than the south. Portugal has ten major rivers, five of which have their origins in Spain. The Rio Minho begins in Spanish Galicia and for a distance of seventy-four kilometers forms the northern Portuguese frontier with Spain. The Rio Douro is of great importance to the commerce of northern Portugal. It also originates in Spain and flows the entire width of Portugal before emptying into the Atlantic at Porto, the country's second largest city.

The Rio Douro is navigable by small craft for its full distance of 198 kilometers in Portugal; historically the river was used to transport casks of port wine to Porto. Its steep banks are terraced with vineyards, and the valley of the Rio Douro is one of the most picturesque in all Portugal. The Rio Tejo is the country's longest river, has the largest drainage basin, and is the most important economically. It is navigable only eighty kilometers upstream, but that includes the vast estuary on which Lisbon is located. The Tejo estuary is the best natural port on the European continent and able to handle large ocean-going vessels. It also contains the Cacilhas drydocks, the largest in the world. The most important river in the south is the Rio Guadiana which, flowing north to south, forms part of the border with Spain. Other important rivers in Portugal include the Rio Lima and the Rio T�mega in the north, the Rio Mondego in the center, and the Rio Sado and Rio Chan�a in the south. The soil systems of Portugal are usually sandy, arid, and acid, reflecting the soils of the Iberian Peninsula generally.

Soil in the north can be rocky. Northern Portugal is better suited for agriculture than the south because of abundant rainfall, but with proper irrigation the south could support more intensive agriculture. About one-fourth of Portugal is covered by forests (mainly pine and deciduous oak); if such cultivated tree crops as olives, cork oak, almonds, chestnuts, and citrus are counted, about one- third of the country's area is tree covered. In the northern mountains, pine, oak, poplar, and elm trees are prevalent. Vegetation is more varied in the central region and includes citrus trees and cork oak. The warm, dry south contains many areas of rough pasture, as well as abundant cork oak. In addition to continental Portugal, the country's territory also includes the Azores and Madeira islands. The Azores consist of nine inhabited islands and several uninhabited rock outcroppings 1,280 kilometers west of the mainland in the Atlantic Ocean. The archipelago has an area of 2,278 square kilometers and a population of about 250,000. The Azores produce sufficient foodstuffs for internal consumption and some exports, but they remain even poorer than the mainland.

The Madeira archipelago, located about 560 kilometers miles west of Northern Africa, consists of two inhabited and several uninhabited islands. With a total area of 788 square kilometers and a population of about 270,000 people, the archipelago is severely overpopulated. Custom Search EUROPA - Portugal | European Union website, the official EU website European Union website, the official EU website Portugal Overview: Portugal is on the western side of the Iberian Peninsula and is the westernmost country of mainland Europe. The country has one land border with Spain to the north and east and has a long coastline with the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. In addition to continental Portugal, the country includes the archipelagos of Azores and Madeira, which are autonomous regions of the country. The most important sectors of Portugal’s economy in 2015 were wholesale and retail trade, transport, accommodation and food services (25.1 %) and public administration, defence, education, human health and social work activities (19.9 %) and industry (17.3 %).

Portugal’s main export partners are Spain, France and Germany, while its main import partners are Spain, Germany and France. Capital: Population as % of total EU: 2 % (2015) Seats in the European Parliament: 21 Euro. Member of the eurozone since 1 January 1999 Schengen area member?: Yes, Schengen Area member since 26 March 1995. Presidency of the Council: Portugal has held the revolving presidency of the Council of the EU 3 times between 1992 and 2007. Read more: Portugal in the EU European Parliament European Parliament office in Portugal Council of the EU In the Council of the EU , national ministers meet regularly to adopt EU laws and coordinate policies. Council meetings are regularly attended by representatives from the Portuguese government, depending on the policy area being addressed. Presidency of the Council of the EU The Council of the EU doesn't have a permanent, single-person president (like e.g. the Commission or Parliament). Instead, its work is led by the country holding the Council presidency, which rotates every 6 months.

During these 6 months, ministers from that country's government chair and help determine the agenda of Council meetings in each policy area, and facilitate dialogue with the other EU institutions. Dates of Portuguese presidencies: More on the current presidency of the Council of the EU . European Commission The Commissioner nominated by Portugal to the European Commission is Carlos Moedas , who is responsible for Research, Science and Innovation. The Commission is represented in each EU country by a local office, called a "representation". Commission representation in Portugal European Economic & Social Committee Portugal has 12 representatives on the European Economic and Social Committee . This advisory body – representing employers, workers and other interest groups – is consulted on proposed laws, to get a better idea of the possible changes to work and social situations in member countries. Committee of the Regions Portugal has 11 representatives on the Committee of the Regions , the EU's assembly of regional and local representatives. This advisory body is consulted on proposed laws, to ensure these laws take account of the perspective from each region of the EU. Permanent representation to the EU Portugal also communicates with the EU institutions through its permanent representation in Brussels.

As Portugal's "embassy to the EU", its main task is to ensure that the country's interests and policies are pursued as effectively as possible in the EU. Budgets and Funding How much does Portugal contribute and receive? Member countries' financial contributions to the EU budget are shared fairly, according to means. The larger your country's economy, the more it pays – and vice versa. The EU budget doesn't aim to redistribute wealth, but rather to focus on the needs of all Europeans as a whole. Breakdown of Portugal’s finances with the EU in 2015: Total EU spending in Portugal – € 2.595 billion Total EU spending as % of Portuguese gross national income (GNI) – 1.48 % Total Portuguese contribution to the EU budget – € 1.529 billion Portuguese contribution to the EU budget as % of its GNI – 0.87 % More figures on the EU budget, revenue and spending: Portugal Portugal COUNTRY OVERVIEW LOCATION AND SIZE. Located in southwestern Europe in the western part of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal borders Spain to the north and east and the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west.

The total area of the country—including the overseas territories of Azores (2,247 square kilometers/868 square miles) and the Madeira Islands (794 square kilometers/307 square miles), both autonomous regions of Portugal—is 92,345 square kilometers (35,655 square miles). The area of Portugal is thus slightly smaller than the U.S. state of Indiana. The capital and largest city is Lisbon, a major seaport situated in the west-central part of Portugal at the mouth of the Tejo (Tajo) River. Other major cities include Oporto (Porto) situated in the northwest at the mouth of the Douro (Duero) River; Coimbra, an industrial and university city on the Mondego River in central Portugal; and Faro, located in the renowned Algarve beach resort area in the south. POPULATION. The population of Portugal numbered 10,048,232 in July 2000.

The population growth rate was estimated at a rather low 0.18 percent in 2000, and the net migration rate was 0.5 immigrants per 1,000 population in the same year. The Portuguese population declined slightly in the late 1980s due to a rapid reduction of the birth rate and steady emigration . The figures somewhat stabilized during the 1990s, and in 1999 the population was 1 percent higher than it was in 1991. Portugal still has one of the lowest fertility rates in Western Europe with approximately 1.4 children born per woman. In 1999, the number of births rose by 2.3 percent, but this increase was still insufficient to ensure long-term population growth. According to Portuguese demographic projections (assuming a recovery in the fertility rate to 1.66 per woman in 2020), the Portuguese population is expected to peak in 2015 at 10.18 million and then again begin to decline.

As in many other European countries, Portugal has an aging population with 15.2 percent over 65 years of age in 1998 (up from 13.8 percent in 1991) and only 16.8 percent aged 14 years or younger (compared with 19.4 percent in 1991). Life expectancy was 72.24 years for men and 79.49 years for women in 2000. Aging will inevitably increase the strain on Portugal's already over-stretched health-care and social security systems. The Portuguese population has been strongly influenced by migration processes. Many nationals emigrated in the 1960s, 1970s, and to a lesser extent in the 1980s in search of higher living standards in the more affluent economies of Western Europe and elsewhere. About 4.5 million Portuguese now live abroad, or almost one-half of the domestic population, but better domestic economic conditions in recent years—particularly since the country joined the European Union (EU) in 1986—have changed this.

By 2000, Portugal experienced a net immigration of 0.5 people per 1,000 population. In 1998, there were fewer than 178,000 immigrants legally residing in Portugal. These immigrants originated mainly from the country's former African and South American colonies and from EU countries. The Portuguese are primarily of Mediterranean descent, as their ancestry can be traced to ancient Iberians, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors (Arabs). Black African citizens who immigrated to the mainland during the de-colonization in the 1970s are fewer than 100,000 in number. Portuguese is the official language. Roman Catholicism is the religion of about 94 percent of the population, although a number of Protestants and followers of other denominations also live in the country. The main urban centers are concentrated around the Lisbon and Tejo Valley area on the Atlantic coast and in the vicinity of the city of Oporto. These 2 conurbations (zones) are home to nearly 69 percent of the population.

The shift from inland rural areas to the cities was fueled by the agricultural crisis and the post-World War II industrial boom, which again gained momentum in the 1970s. The nation is still experiencing heavy migration to urban centers, along with the gradual depopulation of villages in Portugal's rural provinces. SERVICES FINANCE. As Portugal's economy moved towards a focus on services, particularly on banking and finance, this sector gained importance in the 1990s. Following the gradual but thorough privatization of state banks begun in the late 1980s, the Caixa Geral de Depositos (CGD) remained the only state-controlled financial services firm in 2000 (the government has ruled out its privatization for the time being). The privatization of the sector has been followed by a wave of bank mergers and acquisitions. Coping with a relatively small but increasingly crowded market as a result of the European banking liberalization policies, Portuguese banks took the opportunity to form larger and more efficient groups. In 1995, Banco Comercial Portugues (BCP) and the insurer Imperio jointly bought the country's largest private bank, Banco Portugues do Atlantico (BPA).

Industrialist Antonio Champalimaud acquired half of the second largest bank, Banco Totta e Acores, and added it to his Banco Pinto e Sotto Mayor (BPSM). In 1999-2000, the banking sector underwent further consolidation when the major Spanish bank, Banco Santander Central Hispano (BSCH) tried to acquire a controlling stake in the Champalimaud group. Because it was in violation of EU legislation, the deal was banned by the government, but a compromise led to the split of the Champalimaud group and a new reorganization of the sector. BSCH acquired 2 of the splinter Champalimaud banks, Banco Totta e Acores and Credito Pre-dial Portugues; CGD acquired the group's most valued assets, BPSM and the insurance group Mundial Confianca. This reorganization concentrated 70 percent of the country's retail banking market in 4 institutions: CGD, BCP, Banco Portuguese do Investimento (BPI), and Banco Espirito Santo (BES). BSCH of Spain controls 11 percent of the market share.

Insurance firms are strongly connected to the banking groups, and 3 of them dominate the market: Mundial Confianca, acquired by CGD; Imperio, controlled by BCP; and Tranquilidade, in which BES has a major stake. By 2000, banking services in Portugal were modern and mature. Yet as the competition from foreign banks increased with the implementation of the EU banking liberalization policies, profit margins of Portuguese banks began to shrink. Even though the Internet offered the possibilities of cost advantages such as online banking, no Portuguese bank was in a position by 2000 to use fully the Internet for significant cost savings. None had close enough ties to a major foreign bank that would have been able to provide adequate support. Decreasing lending margins in the late 1990s, on the other hand, have prompted most Portuguese retail banks to raise their commissions on customer transactions in order to stay profitable. For example, debit cards in Portugal have an annual charge of US$9.25 a year and credit cards have an even higher annual charge. As a result, commissions vary radically from bank to bank, and it is often the poorer customers who are actually bearing the burden of such dubious banking policies.

Shrinking bank profit margins, increasing bank commissions, and allegations that banks frequently gave misleading information on their charges or applied the charges after the accounts had been opened prompted the government to introduce new voluntary regulations on banking services. These regulations allowed for even the poorest citizen to have a bank account without depositing a minimum amount and to pay only low predictable charges. Only the state-owned CGD, the country's largest financial group, had previously provided a full table of its prices for any visitor to its web page to see. Several major banks adopted the new rules in 2000, but others declined for reasons of commercial secrecy. Although Internet banking hardly exists in Portugal, its national system of automated teller machines (ATMs), Multibanco, is a leader in Europe. The new Netpin electronic technology, compatible with the system, offers unprecedented security against fraud. Netpin's developer, the Portuguese technology-based company Grupo de Apoio a Industria Nacional (GAIN), manufactures most of the terminals distributed across the SIBS (Sociedade Interbancaria de Servitos) system, parallel to Multibanco.

The Netpin system offers the services available at a regular ATM (withdrawals; balance inquiries; payment of tax, water, and energy bills; recharging of electronic "purse cards") and could serve as the basis for development of electronic commerce in Portugal. The company is considering marketing the product in foreign markets, concentrating on those where the Multibanco system already has a foothold, such as Brazil, Colombia, Spain, and Costa Rica. Between 1994 and 1998, due to very easy and active mortgage financing, household debt (in home mortgages) rose from 28.6 percent to 60.8 percent of the disposable income in the country and from 21.1 percent to 44.1 percent of GDP. While the Portuguese government believes that such levels are not dangerous, the rapid growth of the debt is hardly sustainable. If household income suddenly drops, a banking crisis could be triggered by households unable to make payments. There are thus some worries that these high debt levels could worsen any future recession . Furthermore, household disposable income can be rapidly affected even if no recession occurs, simply due to changes in interest rates by the European Central Bank.

Finally, the easy availability of home mortgage loans has contributed to an exaggerated and burdensome increase in real estate prices. TOURISM. Tourism is one of the most important sectors of the Portuguese economy, with foreign currency earnings accounting for an estimated 4.8 percent of GDP in 1999 and employing 6 percent of the active population. Foreign exchange revenue from tourism amounted to US$2.4 billion in 1997. Nearly 25 million foreigners visit Portugal every year, and about half of them are tourists. Most of the visitors are Central and Northern Europeans attracted by the sun and beaches of the southern Algarve region and Madeira. In the mid-1990s, as mass beach tourism declined worldwide, the sector went through a sluggish period, in contrast to the tourist boom in neighboring Spain. The authorities launched a program to diversify attractions by promoting sports, culture, and conference facilities, and public investment in the late 1990s was directed into providing facilities in undeveloped areas to encourage investment by the private sector . The government is restoring historical and cultural assets such as castles and monasteries, with the EU meeting one-third of the costs.

A renewed tourism promotional campaign helped increase revenue in 1997 and 1998. The favorable exchange rate for visitors from Britain (Portugal's most important tourist market) and the celebration of the World Fair Expo '98 in Lisbon brought in additional visitors as well. The World Fair alone contributed a 20 percent increase in foreign visitors in 1998 and a 17 percent increase in tourist revenue. RETAIL. Portugal is slowly following general European retail trends, with a proliferation of hypermarkets and shopping malls gradually replacing small traditional retailers. These new forms of retailing thrived during the consumer boom of the late 1990s. Both foreign and domestic investors have participated in the retailing revolution, with principal domestic investors being the Oporto-based group Sonae Investimentos and Lisbon's Jeronimo Martins. Portugal's franchise retail market, after the boom period of the 1990s, entered a phase of consolidation in 1999. At that time, 357 franchisers were already operating in the market. Of the total number of brands, 35 percent were Portuguese and 42 percent were Spanish.

Banks specializing in small and medium-sized businesses, like the state-owned Banco Nacional Ultramarino, help franchises get started. Famous franchise names include Printemps and Carrefour (French supermarket chains); McDonald's, Pizza Hut and Baskin-Robbins (U.S. fast-food chains); Goody's, a Greek fast-food chain claiming to be the third largest in Europe; and Italian and French apparel stores like Massimo Dutti and Faconnable. Ready-to-wear clothes account for more than one-third of all franchised outlets. A series of new retail centers, such as the large Colombo Center in Lisbon that opened in 1997, have provided excellent opportunities for retail licensing and franchising. The company Sonae Imobiliaria, a unit of Sonae Investimentos, accounts for more than half the market for new retail centers. The next phase of retail development will most likely be the emergence of retail parks or factory outlets, and Sonae Imobiliaria, as well as its rival Mundicenter, are preparing to develop this market. Since the late 1980s, mail order and TV sales have become popular direct marketing methods.

Between 1996 and 1997, sales growth was calculated at 15 percent, and there are presently around 50 direct marketing firms. The most popular sectors are cultural, instruction and training, and amusement materials (33 percent of sales) and apparel and clothing (17 percent of sales). Other strong areas are housewares, perfumes, cosmetics, art, and collectibles. The success of direct marketing is more impressive given that Portuguese mailing expenses are considered high. E-commerce is still lagging behind most of Europe, but several companies have emerged in the late 1990s that offer online shopping for office supplies, computer accessories, and groceries. Consumer protection regulations and laws in Portugal are considered generally adequate for online shopping, although inspections often are ineffective. Trade (expressed in billions of US$): Portugal exports Portugal: Maps, History, Geography, Government, Culture, Facts, Guide & Travel/Holidays/Cities Prime Minister Sócrates Resigns Over Handling of Financial Crisis Geography Portugal occupies the western part of the Iberian Peninsula and is slightly smaller than Indiana. The country is crossed by three large rivers that rise in Spain, flow into the Atlantic, and divide the country into three geographic areas.

The Minho River, part of the northern boundary, cuts through a mountainous area that extends south to the vicinity of the Douro River. South of the Douro, the mountains slope to the plains around the Tejo River. The remaining division is the southern one of Alentejo. The Azores stretch over 340 mi (547 km) in the Atlantic and consist of nine islands with a total area of 902 sq mi (2,335 sq km). Madeira, consisting of two inhabited islands, Madeira and Porto Santo, and two groups of uninhabited islands, lie in the Atlantic about 535 mi (861 km) southwest of Lisbon. Government Parliamentary democracy. History An early Celtic tribe, the Lusitanians, are believed to have been the first inhabitants of Portugal. The Roman Empire conquered the region in about 140 BC Toward the end of the Roman Empire, the Visigoths had invaded the entire Iberian Peninsula. Portugal won its independence from Moorish Spain in 1143. King John I (1385–1433) unified his country at the expense of the Castilians and the Moors of Morocco.

The expansion of Portugal was brilliantly coordinated by John's son, Prince Henry the Navigator. In 1488, Bartolomeu Dias reached the Cape of Good Hope, proving that Asia was accessible by sea. In 1498, Vasco da Gama reached the west coast of India. By the middle of the 16th century, the Portuguese empire extended to West and East Africa, Brazil, Persia, Indochina, and the Malayan peninsula. In 1581, Philip II of Spain invaded Portugal and held it for 60 years, precipitating a catastrophic decline in Portuguese commerce. Courageous and shrewd explorers, the Portuguese proved to be inefficient and corrupt colonizers. By the time the Portuguese monarchy was restored in 1640, Dutch, English, and French competitors had begun to seize the lion's share of the world's colonies and commerce. Portugal retained Angola and Mozambique in Africa, and Brazil (until 1822).

How to call Portugal: country code, area codes, phone books The time in Portugal is now 07:10:34am Calling Portugal from the United States explained: 011 - US exit code; dial first for international calls made from the USA or Canada 351 - Country Code for Portugal Phone Number - 9 digits US to Portugal international dialing format: 011 351 2 ???? ???? Discover the Algarve Region, Algarve - ALBUFEIRA.COM Discover the Counties of the Algarve The Al-Gharb (the West) was for 5 centuries ruled by the Moors and was the last Arab stronghold in Portugal. In the mid 13th Century it was integrated into the rule of the Portuguese Crown, when D. Afonso III was proclaimed “King of Portugal and the Algarves”, dimensions being the only difference in relation to the rest of the country. The architectural heritage inherited from the people who have lived here is very visible in the monuments that survive after the great earthquakes of the 18th Century. Magnificent tiles and the uniquely hand designed chimneys are some of the timeless symbols of the region.

Today, the Algarve is synonymous with the sun, beach and tourism. Its fantastic coastline is unquestionably the essence of this region. But there is certainly much to say about the extent of the Algarvean province, which is divided into two horizontal zones – Barlavento (west) and Sotavento (east) and into three vertical zones – Litoral (coastline), Barrocal (hinterland) and Serra (hills). The Barlavento (West) has a rocky coastline indented with beautiful, intensely colourful rocky bays and hidden beaches. The Sotavento (East), on the other hand, has a gentler coast composed of extensive sandy beaches, with more amenable climate and slightly warmer waters. The Litoral is dominated by high quality tourist complexes, commercial and leisure areas with their restaurants, bars, hotels and shops. Amongst the attractions most sought after are the numerous leisure activities, plus a very animated nightlife.

The Barrocal (hinterland) is the interval between the Litoral (coast) and the Serra (hills), unspoiled and rural, with its fruit trees and indigenous vegetation, it is where a mixture of old and new customs are some of the most typical aspects. The Serra (hills) is the true “undiscovered” Algarve, intact and captivating. The promise of adventure comes true, walking the hills and mounts, fraternizing with the inhabitants and discovering century old customs. Here is to be found the Algarve Folklore – popular dance and music – with its own style of dress and use of instruments that intone a special brand of happy melodies. During the summer months, these groups perform in various Feast days and Saints’ Days all over the Algarve. Not to be missed is learning how to distil medronho (100% alcohol distilled from arbutus berries) and diverse liqueurs. The boroughs of Tavira, Silves, Lagoa and Portimão are distinctive for their orchards, a legacy from the Moors.

It is quite common to find the Algarve oranges being sold at the roadside, and their juice, gold and sweet like honey, is delicious. Figs, almonds and carob beans are also typically Algarvean and are principal ingredients in local sweetmeats. Handicrafts originate from nothing in front of our eyes, in the hands of talented locals, who sit in their sunny doorways calmly “employing” their art of working palm leaves into baskets, tablemats, hats and many other useful or decorative items. Although this is characteristic of the hinterland area, this activity is centred in Loulé. Lacework to edge beautiful tablecloths, sheets, household linens and some items of clothing is predominately made in Castro Marim, Olhão and Fuzeta. The art of weaving cloth, in wool or linen, displays the execution of some lovely designs for blankets and rugs, mostly produced in Monchique. Nearly all of the articles described, not forgetting the famous clay and porcelain ware from the Tavira or Lagoa areas, can be acquired in the numerous handicraft shops to be found in any of the tourist centres of the Algarve.

Ever present in Algarvean cooking, is the flavour of the sea or country, making any dish from the various regions something special and not to be missed. Here, also, you can enjoy the Fish Soups, Grilled Fresh Sardines, “Cataplanas” (copper steamers) of Fish or Shellfish, White Beans with “Buzinas” (large whelks), Fish Stew or “Carapaus Alimados” (cold horse mackerel with oil, garlic and onion). If you appreciate meat, try the Cozido de Rabo de Boi com Grão (Boiled Ox Tail with Chick Peas) and the Borrego Assado Arabesco (Roast Lamb Arab Style). Whatever your choice, you will always have a good local wine to accompany your food. For desert, the regional Morgadino de massa de Amêndoa (marzipan cakes), the Dom Rodrigo (shredded sugar and egg), o Morgado de Figo (fig cake), o Pudim de Laranja (orange pudding) or the Florado de Lagos (Lagos “flowers”) are small irresistible “sins”.

page top Move your mouse over the aerial view of the Algarve and click on the chosen destination. Today, the Algarve is a favourite holiday destination, being famous for its beautiful beaches, amazing countryside, vibrant nightlife, splendid golf courses, excellent hostelries, culture and popular customs, and the friendly charm and welcome of its people. The wonderful climate, warm and sunny all year round, gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of sport, cultural and leisure activities. We invite you to discover this attractive region by learning a little bit more about each municipality Portugal Country Code 351 Country Code PT About Portugal Hide CountryCode.org is your complete guide to make a call from anywhere in the world, to anywhere in the world. This page details Portugal phone code. The Portugal country code 351 will allow you to call Portugal from another country. Portugal telephone code 351 is dialed after the IDD. Portugal international dialing 351 is followed by an area code. The Portugal area code table below shows the various city codes for Portugal. Portugal country codes are followed by these area codes. With the complete Portugal dialing code, you can make your international call.

Algarve travel guide - Wikitravel Falesia Beach Secluded beaches bordered by rocks near Albufeira The Algarve is Portugal's most popular holiday destination due to the clean beaches (approximately 200 km of them), the cool, unpolluted water, and the facts that it is relatively cheap, very safe and overall welcoming. English is spoken at most resorts. The Algarve is rich in culture and diversity. If you are looking for fast paced resorts or a calm tranquil setting either is attainable. The entire region is approx.5400sq km and is graced with over 100 different beaches. If you are into nature the choices are many from the Ria Formosa to Monchique mountain, from Caldeirão mountains to Sagres cape, in fact there are over 30 hiking trails (as per official Turismo de Portugal guide books).There are over 30 courses doted throughout the region. Although the permanent residence population is under 500,000 the area receives more than ten fold that in tourism each year. The busiest times of year tend to be July/August.

History[ edit ] Following the neolithic period of the regions history, approximately 1000 BC, settlements and trading ports were established by the Phoenicians who were attracted by deposits of copper, manganese and iron. They came from the coastal regions of the eastern Mediterranean of modern-day Syria, Israel and Lebanon. Circa 550 BC Portimão was one of the ports founded by the Carthaginians who came from North Africa. In the 2nd century BC the region came under the control of the Romans as they spread throughout the Iberian Peninsular. Many Roman ruins still remain today throughout the Algarve and can be seen in many areas, but the best to visit are probably at the Milreu ruins, 7km from Faro, where buildings that started construction as a Roman villa later became a Christian Church. Following the collapse of the Roman Empire, the Visigoths took control of the Algarve until the invasion of the Moors from North Africa in 711 AD. At this time, the Visigoths who came from central Europe, were defeated in the Battle of Guadalete by a force of invading Arabs and Berbers.

There followed a period of five centuries of Arab rule in Iberia. The Moors conquered the Algarve in 716. Faro, which had been called Santa Maria, was renamed Faraon, meaning 'the settlement of the Knights'. Even the name of the region owes its origin to the Moors who knew the region as 'al-gharb' meaning 'the west'. There is evidence of the moors throughout the Algarve and Southern Spain, illustrated by chimney stacks, pottery and the Moorish style of architecture, and particularly, the Arabic castle at Silves. The castle was built by Almoravid Arabs in the 11th century out of red sandstone and dried mud and is the best preserved Moorish castle in the country. In the 12th Century, King Afonso III, with a little help from English mercenaries, finally evicted the Moors and once again the Portuguese dominated the region, although the area was not fully secure from Moorish attacks until the middle of the 13th century.

Born in Porto in 1394, Prince Henry the Navigator based himself somewhere around Lagos/Sagres, and is considered to be responsible for many of the 'discoveries' made by the Portuguese in the middle ages sending out expeditions to Africa, the islands of Madeira and the Azores. In 1419 he was appointed governor of the province of the Algarve. Disaster struck on 1st November 1755, with a huge earthquake whose epicentre was reported to have been 200km South-West of the country and registering 9 on the Richter Scale. The coastal areas of the Algarve were devastated by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami. The devastation was not only limited to the Algarve, British naval reports from the period indicate the arrival of a huge wave in the port of Lisbon. The damage to Lisbon was almost total, and following huge political turmoil the person responsible for the reconstruction of the city was the Marquis of Pombal, the then Prime Minister. Spectacular rocks on the beach Mediterranean.

Get in[ edit ] International flights into Faro airport (FAO) then (1) by bus: national buses run from outside the airport to the bus terminal regularly throughout the day time on weekdays or (2) by taxi: will be under €10 from the airport to the train station. By plane[ edit ] Faro Airport [1] is the main airport for the region. On arrival there is a wide selection of car hire options both at static desks in the airport and also within the terminal at a meeting point. From Faro airport the train station and bus terminals can be reached by taxi. By bus[ edit ] There are daily bus connections between Lagos, Olhao, Faro (and many other cities) and Spanish cities such as Seville and Huelva . A single ticket Sevilla - Faro costs €16 and the journey takes 4 to 5 hours. By train[ edit ] The Algarve railway is the most convenient way to get around in Algarve. It connects Lagos in west with Vila Real de Santo António on the border to Spain , calling at most towns and cities along the way. You will probably need to change train a few times although there's little waiting time.

By car[ edit ] A car is often the best way of seeing the Algarve, owing to the limited public transport services. Cars can be hired at Faro Airport and in other towns and cities in the Algarve. Most car rental companies will stipulate a minimum age of 21. Prices start from about €30 a day for a small car during the summer but can be as low as €5 a day outside the holiday season. There is often a wide range of cars to choose from. Be sure to have a high enough spending limit on your credit card to have the excess blocked off while you rent, which can easily be over €1000, or else you will have to buy the usually expensive extra insurance from the rental company. Getting a third party excess insurance is often much cheaper, but that will not necessarily persuade the rental company to forgo blocking a large sum on your credit card. The Algarve has a good network of roads, but be aware that some country roads are little more than dirt tracks. Roads are generally well maintained, however, road markings may randomly disappear (in this case stick to the right as far as possible - a favourite Portuguese habit is to overtake, still they are mindful).

After many years, the A22 (IP 1) motorway was finally completed in 2007, which goes from Bensafrim in the west all the way to Monte Francisco on the Portuguese/Spanish border. The Algarve, like the rest of Portugal and mainland Europe, drives on the right. Petrol stations are found all over the Algarve. All stations will sell standard unleaded (95 RON) and super (97 RON) and diesel. Some stations sell LPG (GPL) as well. Unleaded petrol is known as gasolina sem chumbo and diesel gasoleo. Petrol prices in Portugal are high in comparison to other European countries; as of August 2009 95 RON unleaded costs around €1.33 a litre, 97 RON super €1.47 a litre and diesel €1.06 a litre. See[ edit ][ add listing ] Lagos - The old inner city inside the remnants of a protective wall. You'll find winding streets barely wide enough for small cars, quaint shops and wonderful restaurants. Silves - The red stone castle.

The road there is narrow and winds through some rural areas, but it is definitely worth a half day trip if you like castles. Monchique mountains - beautiful area covered by eucalyptus forests with wonderful fresh smell, small waterfalls in winter. You will find great hiking trails and unexplored quiet fields. The view from the Foia peak is absolutely amazing, you can see both south and west coasts and even see the swell! Do[ edit ][ add listing ] Amazing Rock formations There are many activities to do in the Algarve, such as mountain biking, jeep safaris, SPA, but the Algarve is mainly strong with maritime tourism, offering beautiful boat trips along the Algarve coast, wild dolphin watching tours, trip to the caves of Ponta da Piedade, Kayak Tours, Diving at the spectacular Ocean Revival Park, Sailing, Windsurf, Surf lessons, Kite Surf, wake board or just a fast ride on the ocean. During the cooler winter months, Monchique is a popular destination for walking. Eat[ edit ][ add listing ] seafood rice The Algarve is famous for its hot and spicy Piri Piri Chicken, which can be found all over.

It is said to have originated in Guia, a small village near Albufeira. Since it has a big and rich coast, it has a very interesting array of wonderful fish and seafood, from sardines to cataplanas, and many dry fruit sweets that will make your mouth water for more. Fish, along with meat, is often grilled and served with a salad and either boiled potatoes or chips (in the case of meats). In August, Portimao celebrates its annual sardines festival and this is one of the best time to try fresh sardines and experience a small Portuguese festival. Javoli (wild boar) and Leitão (suckling pig) are too other dishes worth trying, along with cabrito no forno (goat roasted in the oven). Although originally from Lisbon, Pasteis de Nata are also worth trying and you will find them in every café on the Algarve as well as in the supermarkets. Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] Medronho is a traditional fruit brandy, traditionally produced and drunk in The Algarve.

Medronho can be fiercely potent and is available in variations ranging from unlabelled local homebrew bottles, moonshine style, to connoisseur tipples at more of a premium price range. Portugal and many wonderful wine regions (Duoro, Dao, and Alentejo are the three most common) and while the Algarve is not traditionally famous for it's wine - nationally or internationally - more and more vineyards are starting up and producing good quality wines. Several vineyards also offer tours and tastings, for example Quinta dos Vales and Quinta do Frances. Sleep[ edit ][ add listing ] Apartment Barbara (Aljezur), Algarve (Vale da Telha Arrifana), [3] . Self catering holiday apartment, situated in the Western Algarve close to the beaches Arrifana and Monte Clérigo in the nature reserve Costa Vicentina close to good surf spots like Amado. 1 bed room prices for 2 person from 25 - 55 euros per night. edit Casa Jana, Loule, [4] . Secluded detached holiday villa in over 1 acre of grounds with private swimming pool. edit Villa Sao Clemente, Loule, [5] .

Family Owned Large 3 Bedroom Holiday Villa With Private Pool and Spectacular Sea Views Peaceful and Tranquil Location, Yet Close To All Location Amenties, Beach, Golf Courses and Water Parks Sleeps 6/7 (3 Bedrooms all ensuite) edit Castro Marim Golfe & Country Club (Castro Marim Golfe & Country Club is a dream location), Sítio do Lavajinho, ☎ +351510330, [6] . If you're looking to book a classy villa holiday with pool, Castro Marim Golfe & Country Club is a dream location. The Resort is just half an hour from Faro and an hour from Seville international airports. From 80€/day. edit Dunas Douradas Beach Club (Dunas Douradas Beach Club), Sítio do Garrão, Apartado 3164, 8135-902 Almancil, Algarve, Portugal, ☎ +351 289 351 300, [7] . checkin: 13:00; checkout: 12:00.

Dunas Douradas Beach Club is a 5 star luxury resort located on the Algarve coastline between Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo. The resort offers 132 stylish luxury holiday apartments and 8 holiday villas for long or short term accommodations. €100. (37.022610,-7.974210) edit Arrifana Surf Hostel (Aljezur), Vale da Telha, 71- Algarve, ☎ +351 917111148, [8] . Boutique Hostel located in the middle of the beautiful Southeast Alentejo Natural Park in the Algarve. Near Arrifana and Monte Clerigo beaches. Walking distance from local restaurants, bar and supermarket. Free wifi, public kitchen, swimming pool, surfboard/wetsuit rentals, bike rentals and multiple types of shared and private rooms. Transportation to and from hostel to a number of nearby cities. €20.

edit Duas Quintas (Silves), Silves, Algarve (Duas Quintas, Santo Estevao, Silves, 8300-047), ☎ +351 282 44 9311, [9] . Bed & breakfast accommodation in the Algarve countryside near Silves. The owners Les and Mary have lived in Portugal for twenty years and are very knowledgeable about Silves and the central Algarve. The B&B has been featured in numerous publications including the Lonely Planet, LA Times, USA Today, and Elle magazine. edit Property for Sale in the Algarve - Buy a Home in the Algarve Where to Buy Property in the Algarve Atlantic waves crashing onto sandy beaches backed by golden cliffs, behind which white villages climb the mountainsides – the Algarve is like the Mediterranean but more exciting. The properties suit a range of budgets from very affordable to luxury villas. The waves are big, the sea is cool, the people are friendly, the putting greens are well-maintained and it’s all under three hours from the UK – what’s not to love?

Oh, and they have a friendly tax regime too, if you fancy living there full time. The Algarve stretches across the 240 kilometres of Portugal’s south coast and around 40 kilometres inland. So while it is best known for sea views and summer fun, the hills and mountains of the hinterland offer a more tranquil option, yet still within a few minutes’ drive of an Atlantic dip if you fancy it. The Algarve divides into three sections. In the centre, the section between Lagos and Faro is the most built up, with holiday apartments, hotels and resorts. The town of Albufeira is here, home to Cliff Richard and Ronan Keating among many other international property owners – actually this ancient city has been attracting international residents since before the Romans. The authorities have done a good job on keeping buildings low rise, but you pay more here, including at a few distinctly upmarket resorts and golf communities in Vilamoura and “The Golden Triangle” based around Vale do Lobo . The port town of Lagos is old and pretty too, and marks the end of the Central Algarve and beginning of the wilder West.

At this end of the Algarve you’re an hour’s drive from Faro airport, which is enough to put off a good proportion of tourists. Some arrive by boat, staying in the town’s excellent marinas – the Royal Navy has had a good relationship with the Portuguese Navy, incidentally, and we’ve been welcomed in these ports for 500 years. Praia da Luz is a popular location for permanent residents. The Eastern Algarve is greener and has both workmanlike fishing villages and the elegant town of Tavira , with 300-year-old homes along its cobbled streets. This is the place to find a less expensive property, but still super-handy for the airport, and for Andalusia too if you fancy a trip over the border. Wherever you buy in the Algarve – even around the most expensive areas – you can find reasonably priced property, a nearby golf course and a ready-made expat community to welcome you. Equally, it is not impossible to enjoy a more immersive Portuguese experience just a few kilometres inland.

Where to Buy Property in the Algarve The Algarve divides naturally into three sections: Eastern Algarve, Central Algarve and Western Algarve and prices vary, along with the landscape. East Algarve This section, between Faro and Spain, is the least developed of the three tranches of coastline. Characterised by the sandbars and lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, this area’s principal hotspot is the former fishing of Tavira that has evolved into a cosmopolitan river side town. Increasingly sophisticated fish restaurants line the river banks of this attractive town with atmospheric Moorish style buildings and from here you get the boat out to the sandbanks. In Tavira you should expect to pay from around €100,000 for a one-bed apartment, or €150k plus for a villa - or another option is Cabanas de Tavira, a riverside resort facing the Ria Formosa, 7km east of the town. It’s still great value there, with one-bed apartments from around €75,000, two-beds from €90,000.

Other hotspots include Vila Real de San Antonio (good marina, great for yachties); and Castro Marim for those who want to be close to the Spanish border. The latter is a small village with a lot of history and you can buy a three-bed golf villa on Castro Marim Golfe resort for under €500k. Central Algarve The central Algarve region around Vilamoura is especially popular with buyers, and this, the most developed and highly populated section, offers many possibilities. Vilamoura itself, a purpose-built resort with a 1,000-berth marina and golf course at its heart, is home to luxury hotels, a casino, sports facilities and beach clubs. It’s close to the airport and you can pick up a large modern villa with frontline golf views for €600,000. Watch out for new developments being launched in 2016 and the new marina. Nearby Albufeira is a handy 30-minute transfer from Faro airport: there’s an old town of pretty cobbled streets lined with restaurants, bars, cafes and shops; an attractive marina with and sandy beaches.

It offers something for everyone, budget-wise, and is a holiday rentals hotspots (according to HomeAway.co.uk) because it attracts both snowbirds in winter and families in summer. You can buy a one-bed apartment from around €120,000, two-beds from around €140,000-150,000, or nearer €500,000 for a quality three-bedder with sea views in the Old Town. Inland, Loule is rather a popular town to be near. There two-bed apartments cost around €150,000, or a small detached villa for €200,000. The nearby busy town of Almancil is handy for both Faro airport (15 mins) but also the two big-name resorts: Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo. Properties in Almancil don’t come with the premium of being on a world-class resort: you can buy a three-bed townhouse for €250,000-€300,000.

At the upmarket golf resort of Quinta do Lago entry level is around €165,000 for an apartment, €500k for a villa (up to €14 million), although you can get some great individual price reductions. At Vale do Lobo, there are some striking contemporary style villas (typically €5m-12m) and entry level is a little higher: around €250,000. West Algarve Generally viewed as a bit less developed than the central Algarve, especially as you head to the Atlantic seaboard, this area is one of lovely fishing villages and wide, sweeping beaches. Since the highway made it faster to reach from Faro it just kept growing in popularity. Lagos (pronounced Lar-gosh) is the stand-out hotspot – an attractive year-round town with great fish restaurants, lively night-life, great town beach and a reasonable sized ex-pat community. Prices rose faster during the boom (from a lower base) than in the Central Algarve and fell faster, but again they seem to be outpacing elsewhere for growth.

You can buy a one-bed apartment for around €100,000 or a villa from around €250,000. Nearby Praia da Luz is a very popular resort, with similar pricing, and great for families. If secluded fishing villages are you thing, check out the laid-back little town of Salema where the beach is its focal point (three bed townhouses from around €250,000); or Burgau and Sagres. Or those seeking a rural retreat might check out Monchique, an engaging market town of cobbled streets and a ruined monastery in the Serra de Monchique. It’s so far north that prices drop quite considerably: a two-bed villa costs from around €120,000 and there are typical Algarvean townhouses with white-washed walls and bands of colour around the windows.

Question: In which country is the area called "the Algarve"?
Answer: Portugal