Sagres Vacations

04/24/2025

🏖️🏰 Tossa de Mar: The Jewel of the Costa Brava 🇪🇸🌊

Where medieval history meets Mediterranean bliss — welcome to Tossa de Mar! 💙

Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town, climb the ancient walls of the Vila Vella, and gaze out over crystal-clear waters from a centuries-old castle. It’s a place where time slows down and the beauty speaks for itself. 🏰🌴

Whether you're soaking up the sun on Platja Gran, discovering hidden coves along the coast, or dining on fresh seafood with a seaside view — Tossa is the definition of Costa Brava magic.

📍Only 90 minutes from Barcelona, but a world away in charm.

04/23/2025

🏰🌊 Viana do Castelo: Where Mountains Meet the Sea 🇵🇹✨

Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and lush green hills, Viana do Castelo is one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets — and a dream for lovers of culture, coastlines, and charm. 💙

Wander the historic old town, ride the funicular to the Basilica of Santa Luzia for breathtaking views, and discover the town’s rich tradition of filigree jewelry and colorful folklore festivals. 🎭🧵

And don’t forget the beach! From Praia do Cabedelo to the rugged cliffs of the north, Viana is a surfer’s haven and a sunset chaser’s paradise. 🌅🏄♀️

📍Less than an hour from Porto, but a world away in beauty and authenticity.

04/22/2025

🌊☀️ Mediterranean Magic in Menorca 🇪🇸🌿

Looking for paradise? You’ll find it on the tranquil shores of Menorca — the Balearic Island that flies under the radar but steals every traveler’s heart. 💙

Think turquoise coves, sun-drenched white villages, and the peaceful pace of island life. From the historic streets of Ciutadella to the prehistoric sites of Talatí de Dalt, Menorca is a gem of natural beauty and cultural depth. 🏛️🌺

Whether you're sailing into secret coves, savoring local Mahon cheese, or hiking the legendary Camí de Cavalls, Menorca is your perfect Mediterranean escape.

✈️ Add this island to your Spain bucket list. Tranquility never looked so good.

04/21/2025

🇵🇹 Portugal called — it says you’re overdue for sunshine, pastries, and a little adventure! ☀️🥐🍷

Get your daily dose of vitamin sea in the Algarve 🌊, snack on way too many pastéis de nata (no judgment) 🥧, and pretend you’re royalty in Sintra’s colorful palaces 👑. Oh, and don’t forget to practice your "Bom dia!" — you’ll be saying it with a smile every morning. 😄

Warning: Portugal may cause severe wanderlust and a lifetime obsession with custard tarts. Proceed accordingly. 😉

04/20/2025

May you and yours have a very Hoppy Easter!
(see what we did there 😉 )

Our offices are closed today, but we will be in office today at 8:30am

04/19/2025

🌴 Holy Week in Málaga: A Celebration of Faith and Passion

In Málaga, Semana Santa isn’t just tradition—it’s a living, breathing celebration that fills the city with color, music, and soul.

🌟 Giant, gold-covered floats carried by hundreds of devoted hombres de trono
🥁 Thunderous drums and powerful brass bands
🙏 Brotherhoods marching with emotion and pride
🇪🇸 And yes—Spain’s own Antonio Banderas joins the processions, honoring his roots with heartfelt devotion

Unlike anywhere else, Málaga’s Holy Week is where solemn devotion meets joyful celebration—where the crowds applaud, the candles glow, and the city beats to the rhythm of centuries-old faith.

💃 Feel the pulse of Andalucía this Easter.

Here is a video of Easter procession

04/18/2025

🎭✨ Experience Carnaval in Madeira Like Never Before ✨🎭
Ready for one of Europe’s most colorful festivals in pure luxury?

💫 8 days of indulgence in breathtaking Madeira
🏨 5 nights at the chic 5⭐️ The Vine Hotel in Funchal
🍹 3 nights at 5⭐️all-inclusive Dreams Madeira Resort & Spa
Private tours to hidden gems: Câmara de Lobos, Porto Moniz, Santana, Faial & Pico do Arieiro
🧑💼 English-speaking professional guide + private airport transfers
🍽️ 16 meals included

🌴 Carnaval parades, island magic, and luxury at every turn...
➡️ Contact your travel advisor to learn more!

04/18/2025

🖤 Good Friday in Seville: A Night of Silence, Shadows, and Soul

As the clock strikes midnight on Viernes Santo, Seville holds its breath.

🕯️ Hooded penitents walk barefoot through the silent streets
🎺 The mournful cry of a lone trumpet pierces the stillness
🖼️ Iconic floats like La Macarena and El Gran Poder move slowly through candlelit crowds
🕊️ It’s not just seen—it’s felt in your chest, your skin, your soul

Good Friday in Seville is the emotional heart of Semana Santa—a sacred night where tradition, faith, and raw human emotion converge under the Andalusian moon.

💔 Come for the spectacle. Leave forever changed.

04/17/2025

Top 20 Facts that you may not know about Spain:

1. Spain has the second-highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world** (after Italy and China). There are over 40, from ancient cave art to stunning historic cities.

2. Spanish is not the only language spoken in Spain.** There are several co-official languages, including Catalan, Galician, Basque (Euskara), and Aranese.

3. Spain is home to the oldest restaurant in the world.** Casa Botín in Madrid has been serving food since 1725, according to the Guinness World Records.

4. Spain produces over 50% of the world's olive oil.** Andalusia, particularly Jaén, is the heart of this production.

5. The name "Spain" comes from the Roman name "Hispania,"** though its exact origin is debated — some believe it means "land of rabbits."

6. Spain was under Muslim rule for over 700 years.** The influence of Al-Andalus is still evident in architecture, language, and cuisine.

7. The Sagrada Família in Barcelona is still under construction.** Construction began in 1882, and it is projected to be finished (finally!) in the 2030s.

8. Spain hosts the world’s biggest food fight.** La Tomatina takes place in Buñol, where thousands throw tomatoes at each other for fun.

9. The Spanish royal family is one of the oldest monarchies in Europe.** The current monarchy traces its lineage back to the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella.

10. Spaniards eat dinner very late.** In Spain, it’s common to dine around 9 or 10 p.m., especially in the summer.

11. Spain has Europe's only desert.** The Tabernas Desert in Almería, Andalusia, has been the filming location for many Hollywood "spaghetti westerns."

12. The Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) was a precursor to World War II.** It was a brutal conflict that still shapes political discussions in Spain today.

13. There are no tooth fairies in Spain.** Instead, children leave their teeth for "El Ratón Pérez," a little mouse who collects them.

14. Spain is the most mountainous country in Europe after Switzerland.** The Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada offer dramatic peaks and ski resorts.

15. Spanish flamenco is more than just a dance.** It’s an entire art form including song (cante), dance (baile), and guitar (toque).

16. Spain legalized same-sex marriage in 2005.** It was one of the first countries in the world to do so.

17. The world's oldest known cave paintings are in Spain.** Some in the El Castillo cave in Cantabria are estimated to be over 40,000 years old.

18. Spain has over 8,000 kilometers of coastline.** No wonder beach holidays are so popular!

19. The Spanish anthem has no official lyrics.** Unlike most national anthems, "Marcha Real" is purely instrumental.

20. Spain is a top wine producer — but most of it stays at home!** Spaniards love their local wine, and many of the country’s finest bottles rarely leave the borders.

04/16/2025

When your trip is so Authentic, you come home fully Portuguese 😉 This is why you trust the experts

04/15/2025

" We are born to be free, to expand our horizons by going where we have never gone before, and not to hang out in the relative comfort and safety of of the nest, the known." - Dennis Merritt Jones

📷 Francisco Correia

04/14/2025

𝟮0 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻'𝘁 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄: 🇵🇹
1. Portugal is the oldest nation-state in Europe, having established its current borders in 1139 AD.
2. The Portuguese language is the official language of 9 countries, including Portugal itself, Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, and others.
3. Portugal is the world’s largest cork producer, responsible for over half of the world’s cork supply.
4. The Vasco da Gama Bridge in Lisbon is the longest bridge in Europe, spanning over 10 miles (17.2 kilometers).
5. Portugal is one of the world’s top producers of quality wine, known for its Port wine, Vinho Verde, and Douro wines.
6. The University of Coimbra in Portugal is one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world, founded in 1290.
7. The Portuguese island of Madeira is famous for its New Year’s Eve celebrations, featuring one of the largest fireworks displays in the world.
8. Portugal is home to continental Europe’s westernmost point, Cabo da Roca, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
9. The Portuguese town of Óbidos is known for its annual chocolate festival, attracting visitors from around the world.
10. Portugal’s Algarve region is renowned for its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque fishing villages.
11. The Azulejo, traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles, are used to decorate buildings, churches, and even train stations throughout the country.
12. The famous Portuguese pastry, Pastel de Nata, was created by Catholic monks in the 18th century.
13. Portugal’s national symbol is the Rooster of Barcelos, which symbolizes luck, honesty, and integrity.
14. Lisbon’s São Jorge Castle offers panoramic views of the city and has a history dating back over 2,000 years.
15. The Vasco da Gama Tower in Lisbon is shaped like a sailboat mast and is one of the tallest buildings in Portugal.
16. Portugal has a long history of exploration, with explorers like Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, and Bartolomeu Dias leading expeditions during the Age of Discovery.
17. The city of Porto is known for its historic center, UNESCO-listed port wine cellars, and iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.
18. Portugal is home to one of the world’s oldest bookshops, Livraria Bertrand, which opened in Lisbon in 1732.
19. The Portuguese island of Porto Santo is believed to be the first landing site of Christopher Columbus on his voyage to the Americas in 1492.
20. Portuguese cuisine features a variety of seafood dishes, including bacalhau (salted cod), grilled sardines, and seafood rice.

04/13/2025

The Moorish Influence on Portugal: A Legacy in Stone & Soul

From the intricate azulejo tiles to the arched doorways of ancient palaces, the Moors left an unforgettable mark on Portugal’s architecture, language, and culture. 🇵🇹

🔹 Stunning Landmarks – Visit the Castelo dos Mouros in Sintra or the Mértola Castle to see Moorish design at its finest.
🔹 Azulejos & Arabesque Patterns – The Moors introduced the stunning hand-painted tiles that still cover buildings today.
🔹 Arabic Influence in Portuguese Language – Words like "almofada" (pillow) and "azeitona" (olive) have Arabic roots!
🔹 Irrigation & Agriculture – The Moors revolutionized farming with water channels and terraces, still seen in the Algarve.

The echoes of the Moorish era (711–1249 AD) remain alive in Portugal’s art, music, and even cuisine—a testament to centuries of cultural fusion. 🌍

04/12/2025

Dine at the World’s Oldest Restaurant – Right in Spain!

Did you know that Spain is home to the world's oldest continuously operating restaurant? Sobrino de Botín, located in Madrid, has been serving guests since 1725! Recognized by the Guinness World Records, this legendary spot has welcomed famous figures like Ernest Hemingway and even Francisco de Goya, who once worked there as a dishwasher!

Must-Try Dish? Their signature cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), slow-cooked in the original 18th-century wood-fired oven for a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth experience. 🤤🐖

If you’re a foodie and history lover, this is an unmissable experience in Madrid! Who’s adding it to their bucket list?

04/11/2025

Galicia – Spain’s Hidden Gem in the Northwest

Escape to Galicia, Spain’s mystical region where the Atlantic coast meets lush green landscapes and ancient traditions thrive! From the jaw-dropping cliffs of Costa da Morte to the legendary Camino de Santiago, Galicia is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history.

Why Visit Galicia?
🏰 Explore the medieval towns like Santiago de Compostela, home to the famous cathedral and a UNESCO pilgrimage site
🏖 Discover the rugged beaches and tranquil coves along Rías Baixas, perfect for seafood lovers
🌳 Hike through lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and dramatic coastlines in Fragas do Eume Natural Park
🍷 Savor Galician seafood, especially pulpo a la gallega (octopus), and wash it down with Albariño wine

Galicia is a place where mystical beauty and deep-rooted traditions come together.

04/11/2025

https://zurl.co/U92MM
Spain and Portugal Top the list!

If you’re looking for the perfect place to sip a cocktail while taking in breathtaking city views, look no further than Lisbon’s SEEN Sky Bar. The stunning rooftop lounge has just been ranked one of the Top 10 Best Rooftop Bars in Europe for 2025 by global travel site Big 7 Travel.

04/10/2025

🌍⛵ Portugal: The Small Nation That Changed the World ⛵🌍

During the Age of Discoveries (15th–16th century), Portugal’s fearless navigators set sail into the unknown, mapping new routes, connecting continents, and forever shaping global history. 🇵🇹

⚓ Prince Henry the Navigator – The mastermind behind Portugal’s maritime expansion, setting the stage for great explorers.
⚓ Bartolomeu Dias – The first to sail around the Cape of Good Hope, opening the sea route to Asia.
⚓ Vasco da Gama – Pioneered the voyage to India, bringing back spices that changed European trade forever.
⚓ Ferdinand Magellan – Led the first circumnavigation of the globe, proving the Earth was round.

Their discoveries shaped modern trade, culture, and navigation, leaving behind a global Portuguese legacy in places like Brazil, Goa, Mozambique, and Macau. 🌏

Today, their spirit of adventure still inspires travelers worldwide! Who’s ready to explore Portugal’s maritime history? 🚢

04/10/2025

The cool Canary Island to visit this year

How to get the most out of the unsung, surprisingly cool Canary Island. https://condenasttraveller.visitlink.me/MLMK8H