Coimbra Tours in Spring

Portugal surprised me with how effortlessly it blends coastal charm and deep history. Our week started in Lisbon’s cobbled streets and instantly captivating pastel de nata at the Belem district. Wandering through Jeronimos Monastery was an early delight. The boat ride to the fishing village of Nazare came next, looking out at huge Atlantic swells was humbling and thrilling. Moving inland to Obidos, I felt like I’d stepped into a medieval storybook. Through its narrow lanes and hilltop castle, we then found quieter moments at the Monastery of Batalha. My favorite was Porto. Rabelo boats floating on the Douro, port tastings at dusk, and the historic Ribeira district buzzing with life. The final stop in Coimbra showcased Portugal’s intellectual heritag, its centuries-old university left me in awe. Travel days were easygoing. Our guide was energetic yet relaxed, and the small group size meant I had meaningful conversations with fellow travelers. Best value I’ve encountered for European travel. highly recommend it.

Just returned from Madeira, whilst the weather was pretty miserable we still had a great time. Andre our guide had to substitute a couple of our walks due to the weather conditions. Very impressed with Madeira and the locals who very helpful, but I would suggest maybe going at a different time of the year, (Not April). The tour operator planned everything from we lifted up the phone until we were left back to the airport. The hotels, the pack lunches, the walks, flights etc.

Lovely bunch of folks , lots of laughs and good local guide who always made sure we could eat together and knew some great restaurants. He also found us chances to swim in the sea at the end of some walks.Great weather and varied walks amongst the flowers, plants and mountains of subtropical Madeira.Plenty to do in Funchal in our free time, beautiful gardens.

Walking is a great way to see Madeira. The paths were in generally good condition, and the drops were not as daunting as I had expected - although you definitely need to look where you are going!The weather in Madeira is much more localised than I had realised - if it's important to you, make sure you look at the forecast for specific places. The mountains were rainy, and colder than expected - be prepared for anything!Most of the group went whalewatching in Funchal - this wasn't mentioned in the trip notes, but was great fun. No whales, but several dolphins - also a great way to get a view of Funchal from the water.

On the interior of the island I sometimes I felt that I as walking through a set for a prehistoric film with towering spires of solidified lava, lush vegetation, and some plants that are pot plants in the UK growing wild to giant proportions. On the coastal walks it is mesmerising to watch and hear the waves battering against the base of the cliffs. Following the levadas along vertiginous rock faces and through caves, I marvelled at how they were created using only hand tools. The Madeirans are very friendly and the service in the hotels and restaurants is second to none. The drivers were always on time and I never felt rushed to be anywhere. The weather was exceptionally sunny for the time of year and we were able to swim in the sea very comfortably. The Christmas illuminations in Funchal were amazing. I have never seen so many anywhere else. For such a short flight from the UK I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone just to see this varied and stunning island.