Investing abroad always starts with a simple, yet important decision: where to invest? As Portugal gains recognition as one of Europe’s top choices for investment, understanding both the culture and customs take a little more time. It’s indeed an effort, but the reward can be greater!
By now it’s no secret that the success of the Golden Visa programme and the Non-Habitual Resident tax regime have proven their value for investors. But visiting one of these natural wonders will certainly take you to the heart of our culture and identity – and that’s a rare opportunity for any investor!
So, if you’re curious about dazzling views, away from mass-populated locations, or even if you’re just looking for adventure, these are some of the natural wonders that await you when investing in Portugal!
1) Peneda-Gerês National Park
It’s time to turn your attention to the beauties of northern Portugal. You’ll find urban centers too, such as the city of Braga, our third largest city and spiritual capital. The real beauty, however, lies in the country’s only national park, Peneda-Gerês, just a few kilometers away from the Spanish border and a one-hour drive from Porto.
Here you’ll find green hillsides, waterfalls, Roman ruins, wildlife, and granite sky-piercing peaks in an area of 80,000 hectares.
While in the area, remember to look for the traditional wine known as Vinho Verde (or Green Wine). Fear not: it’s not actually green, but the verdant region provides the name for this typically light wine, best served chilled after a long journey.
2) Douro Valley and Douro International Natural Park
You’re about to venture into a region of cliffs and ravines, famed for its production of Port and other wines, the valley of the Douro River.
Classified as UNESCO World Heritage Site, the landscape of Alto Douro shows the best of our relation with nature and a long history of technical, social, and economic development. Take some time for a road trip, a visit to the wineries, or – better yet – hop on a train and visit riverside towns like Peso da Régua or Pinhão.
Are you feeling the breeze yet?
3) Arouca Geopark
Not far from Porto, the city of Arouca gives you a rare glimpse back in time, through the history of the Earth and all the biological and geological developments.
With 328 square kilometers, the area may not be the largest on our list, but surely is one of the richest. Arouca was classified as UNESCO Global Geopark back in 2009 and since then has been captivating adventurers due to its traditional villages, monuments, and hiking paths. The main attraction, though, is absolutely the suspended bridge, 516 Arouca. 175 meters above the Paiva River, this is one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world!
4) Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
Not far from the busy streets of Lisbon, you’ll find Sintra. There’s still that cosmopolitan vibe we love, but here’s another side that lucky visitors must see!
The whole town and mountain of Sintra are a UNESCO site, combining forest, parks, and historic places. The landscape is dominated by rich vegetation, sand dunes, high cliffs, and the imposing Cabo da Roca. However, a hike along the western cost can take some time. After all, this is where your senses will go wild with the view!
The historic sites are another must-see. The Castle of the Moors, which dates back to the 8th Century, or the fantasy-like Pena Palace rising on top of a hill, is surrounded by other distinctive palaces, such as the Queluz Palace and the Monserrate Palace.
5) Arrábida Natural Park
Fancy a 40-minute drive from Lisbon to a paradise for nature lovers? Set your GPS then to Setúbal and be ready to find rocky high cliffs and a mountain range covered in the green protected vegetation of Arrábida Natural Park.
This is a popular getaway for anyone living or visiting Lisbon, given the many fine sand beaches. Strolling along the coastal paths or taking a boat trip offshore will also allow you to feel the ocean breeze on the tip of your fingers.
Want to discover more about Portugal?
With so many options for you to fall in love with on your holidays, we sincerely hope you’ll take the time to enjoy all the experiences waiting for you!
This is a unique opportunity to better know the country you’re investing in, so feel free to reach us for more information!