The World Unlocked

     Oceanario de Lisboa is another top family day out. Located in Lisbon, this sensational aquarium is home to 8000 marine animals. The aquarium's phenomenal floor to ceiling wrap-around tanks make it is possible to feel as if you are underwater during your visit.

     With its position at the very edge of Europe, facing the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal has played a significant role on the world stage in the past.

     Portugal's rich history is reflected in the sheer number of spectacular historical sights for visitors to explore all over the country and many of them hark back to Portugal's monumental maritime history.

     Just some of the many historical sights in Portugal include: the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos (or Jeronimo's Monastery), Castelo de Sao Jorge, Torre de Belem (or Belem Tower), Castelo de Silves (or Silves Castle), Palacio Nacional de Sintra, Praca do Comercio and the Universidade de Coimbra.

     The Mosteiro dos Jeronimos (or Jeronimo's Monastery) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous structures in Portugal.

     Built in 1501 to celebrate the safe return of the great explorer Vasco de Gama, its intricately decorated interior and facade are a magnificent architectural feat with extravagant vaulted ceilings, a double layered cloister and ornate stonework.

     Close by, the Torre de Belem (or Belem Tower) is another magnificent World Heritage Site.

     Constructed in 1514, the five-floor Torre de Belem was first used as a fort to protect the city of Lisbon from invaders. Its prominent position made it the entry point from where many of the country's famous explorers would leave and return to great fanfare.

     Silves Castle is an astounding 8th century, red sandstone castle in Silves. The castle was built by the Moors and is said to be the best preserved medieval castle in the Algarve.

     Castelo de Sao Jorge is another famous castle from around the same period. Sitting at the top of the highest hill in Lisbon, this former royal palace is particularly impressive at night when it is illuminated and can be seen from miles away.

     Portugal's diverse landscape is almost as famous as its beaches. Both along the coast and inland, you'll find plenty of natural phenomena and superb hiking trails to explore. Some of the best include: Cabo da Roca, Ponta da Piedade, Ria Formosa Natural Park, Furnas Lake, Porto Moniz, 25 Fontes and Cascada da Risco.

     Ria Formosa Natural Park is a famous nature reserve along the coast of the Algarve. Its 60km lagoon is bordered by peninsulas and tiny islands, creating a fertile network of marshes, tidal flats, saltpans, woodland and islands.

     Flanked by a beach on either end, Ria Formosa is home to a huge range of rare plants, flowers, marine life and over 20,000 birds during the winter months. Many of the rare species that live here can't be found anywhere else in the world. Explore the many trails though the wetlands yourself on foot, by bike or on a boat tour.

     Ponta da Piedade is another extraordinary area of natural beauty in the Algarve.

     Comprising a collection of majestic rock formations, caves and grottoes, the limestone cliffs of Ponta da Piedade sit at over 20m above sea level.

     From its position in Lagos, it is possible to hike up the 182 steps to the top to see the site in all its splendour, as well as dramatic views across to Sagres and Carvoeiro. Alternatively,you may want to take a boat tour along the coastline and into the caves.

     The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a quick swim or you can hire a guided kayak tour and sail in and out of the cove too see everything up close. Look out for the sea arches, the cathedral, the submarine, the camel's head and the kissing couple – all famous formations, you'll want to spot during your visit.