Monte da Tojeirinha

Into your history? The dolmens of the Montargil Megalithic Site are across the water (15 minutes’ drive) from the site, and the St Andrew Necropolis is nearby too for trips admiring ancient monuments. Apart from seeking out sights like these, a hol here is all about soaking up the scenery and having a go at the watery activities in the area – you could swim in the dam and fish by its banks or have a go at high-octane pursuits like windsurfing, waterskiing, sailing and jetskiing. If you’re craving busier places, Lisbon – Portugal’s cool capital – is an hour and 40 minutes’ drive away. Head here for topnotch attractions like the National Museum of Ancient Art, the Roman Theatre Museum and the Lisbon City Museum, then get up high in the hilly barrios (neighbourhoods) for memorable views over the downtown’s rooftops and the coast. This city’s also famed for its festivals, so chuck events like the Lisbon Book Fair, the MOTELx (Lisbon International Horror Film Festival) and the magic-themed Lisboa Mágica on your calendar. If you can’t make it out to Portugal for any of these, then make sure you at least experience a slice of Portuguese culture at one of the Fado music clubs in the centre.