MADEIRA is a volcanic archipelago that lies about 1000 km off the coast of Portugal. Its capital Fuchal is a cosmopolitan city, with parks, shops and hotels. Visited every year by about one million tourists, this popular year-round island resort is noted for its Madeira wine, flowers, landscapes and embroidery artisans, as well as for its annual New Year celebrations that feature the largest fireworks show in the world. Airport: Madeira International.

Casa Velha do Palheiro (www.casa-velha.com)

AMARANTE is a municipality in northern Portugal situated in rich agricultural lands of the Minho region responsible for the grapes of the vinho verde, the young, semi-sparkling green wine unique to Portugal. Local attractions include the Palacio Mateus, made of thousands of bottles of Mateus Rose; the 15th century Palace of the Dukes of Braganca, now a National Monument; and the 12th century Guimaraes Castle, a UNESCO World heritage site. Airport: Porto International

Casa da Calcada (www.casadacalcada.com)

This region combines rivers, waterfalls, vineyards and fertile fields with important monuments in urban centres. Porto, The North's most important city, owes its name to the famous port wine. One should not miss a visit to the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia and free tasting of port. Porto’s bustling downtown includes famous palaces, cathedrals, Romanesque churches and several impressive museums. The region’s coastline offers beautiful beaches, seaside resorts and charming villages – and inland, Peneda-Geres National Park is worth visiting. Airport: Porto International

The Yeatman (www.the-yeatman-hotel.com)

LISBON and the surrounding area offer important historical monuments, castles and parks that keep tourists busy during the day, while Fado houses, bars and night clubs provide evening entertainment. The World Heritage Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery are must-see monuments. Outside the city of Lisbon, seaside resorts, parks and nature reserves offer recreational opportunities while the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sintra, with its buildings from the 8th-9th century, and the 15th and 19th century, provides a popular daytrip. Airport: Lisbon International

Fortaleza do Guincho (www.hotelfortalezadoguincho.com)

THE ALGARVE is Portugal’s most popular tourist region with beautiful beaches, warm water and a mild Mediterranean climate. In the west, the coast around Lagos features limestone cliffs and weird, erosion-formed caves, grottoes and rock formations. In the east, the coast is sheltered by long, sandy, dune-backed islands and the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve attracts birdwatchers and other nature lovers. Local cuisine features fresh fish and seafood dishes washed down by local regional wines. Airport: Faro International

Hotel Bela Vista (www.hotelbelavista.net)