Dolittle Holidays

The popular, but not over-stuffed, beach resort of Figueira da Foz is an hour’s drive away, a prime spot for walks and seafood as well as the more obvious swimming and sunbathing stuff. You can kayak your way down the Mondego river from here, and Gala (50 minutes) just down the coast is where the surfers go for their thrills. History buffs will have a fine time here, as the Leiria region of Portugal is packed with Roman remnants. Santiago da Guarda (10 minutes) and Rabaçal (20 minutes) both have super ruins and mosaics to mooch about, and the striking castle at Pombal (25 minutes) was a stronghold of the Knights Templar. Mountain fans can get to grips with the sea-facing precipices at Serra da Boa Viagem (an hour and 10 minutes) or for the real deal make the two and a half-hour trip to Manteigas, centre of the Serra da Estrela National Park. Dozens of trails run through this region of forested mountains and hidden lakes, a natural wonderland roamed by wolves and otters. If you don’t want to meet the wolves, then eat the cheese; the region is proud of its distinctive gooey sheep’s cheese made with thistles.