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For those of you with an interest in European
culture but a preference for something a little
different, Portugal could be just the place
for you. And, depending on your particular interests
- from beach resorts to ancient towns - there's
sure to be an ideal itinerary for you. The following
honeymoon, one of our favorites, should give
you a taste for what's possible.
 You
will start out on the mountainous island of
Madeira, about 600 kms off the coast of Morocco
(90 minutes from Lisbon). While relatively isolated,
this interesting spot still offers a wide variety
of activities and accommodations. The island
has an exotic feel, with rugged volcanic peaks
that soar to the sky, then suddenly drop down
to the lush, semitropical coast. You will be
staying at the Choupana Hills Resort & Spa,
a luxurious resort comprised of individual bungalows
that sits high above the port town of Funchal.
During the day, you can unwind from the wedding
by relaxing at the pool, enjoying the spa or
simply gazing out over the Atlantic. When you
are ready to get out and about, Madeira has
a lot to offer. There are 2500 kms of walking
trails along the island's "levadas" (mini-canals
used for irrigation dating back as far as the
16th century), a wonderful way to explore the
mountainous interior.
 You
can visit Adegas de São Franciso to learn about
Madeira wine making; drive around the island,
stopping in traditional villages like Santana;
or shop for world famous Madeira lace. Of course,
you can also partake in water activities like
snorkeling, windsurfing and fishing.
 After
enjoying Madeira, you will fly back to the mainland,
pick up your Mercedes C180 and cruise north
to the medieval walled village of Obidos, well
known for its whitewashed houses draped in bougainvillea,
cobblestone streets and winding staircases.
The highest parts of the city offer beautiful
views of countryside windmills and vineyards.
In addition to offering a number of historical
sights, Obidos is a good base for exploring
the surrounding region. You accommodations here
will closely match the environment - you will
be staying in one of nine rooms at the Pousada
Do Castelo, located within the walls of Obidos
Castle!
 From
Obidos, you will head back south to charming
Sintra, one of the country's few UNESCO World
Heritage sites. The town (actually three connected
towns) has a cool, subtropical microclimate
that made it a summer getaway for kings and
Moorish lords. In addition to soaking in the
beautiful views, Sintra is a wonderful place
for enjoying architecture, historical sights
and lovely walks. Nearby, you can easily visit
the impressive pink marble Palácio de Mafra,
with 880 rooms, 5200 doorways and 2500 windows!
A particularly romantic spot, at the foot of
the Sintra hills, is Guincho Beach with its
crashing surf and miles of sand. Your home in
the Sintra area will be the intimate Quinta
da Capela, a 7-room rural inn built in the 16th
century by the Duke of Cadaval.
 Before
departing for home, you will spend your last
few days exploring Portugal's hilly capital
of Lisbon. Sights and activities are varied
- art nouveau cafés, the medieval quarter of
Alfama, São Jorge Castle, and plenty of restaurants
and nightlife spots. When not wandering through
the city, you can relax at your hotel, the refined
Lapa Palace, which sits on a hill overlooking
the Tagus River in the city's embassy district.
Unfortunately,
your Portuguese honeymoon odyssey has to end
at some point. You will depart feeling refreshed
and with a newfound appreciation for the unique
culture of this special country.
Who
will enjoy this trip
Those who have been to Europe before and are
looking for something different. Those who want
to spend some time lounging but do not require
a full service beach resort. Those who enjoy
outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Who
should avoid this trip
Those who prefer traditional resorts (and resort
activities). Those who place a greater emphasis
on gourmet dining. Those seeking 5-star luxury
throughout their honeymoon.
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