Incredible Geographic Diversity

Portugal is quite a remarkable country. About a fourth the size of California and yet almost as geographically diverse.

You can find monster waves and warm sunny beaches in Nazaré, upto class V rapids in the Arouca Geopark, and skiing opportunities at the top of Serra da Estrela in peak winter. In our short time here, we have tried to experience a little bit of everything that Portugal has to offer. We've kayaked in the Algarve, passed through Porto, explored a bit of Lisboa, relaxed in the Douro Valley, walked along miles of pristine beaches, taken surf lessons, and hiked around clifftops. <Pause for breath> And yet, it will take us ages to go through everything on offer.

Unhappy with the heat in the Algarve, take a four hour drive up north to the Silver Coast where it's about 5C - 10C cooler depending on the time of year. Not quite feeling the surf on a particular day, drive a few hours inland to get to a hiking trail in the hills. There are so many excellent options and environments that finding the right place to live has proved tricky for us as it might for anyone else looking to move here or even visit. For example, we enjoyed our Algarve trips over the winter when it was cold here by the Silver Coast (~10C) but was a pleasant 18C - 20C down in Carvoeiro. This made us think about moving to the south coast permanently but quickly dismissed it. Yet, Portugal is so much more than just coastlines and waterfronts. You can find fantastic river valleys, rolling hills interspersed with vineyards, and serene mountain tops where you can pitch tent. All possible to get to within a few hours of each other. All very enjoyable, all very welcoming.

Just remember to stay away from the Algarve between July and September. You can thank me later.