Monte Horizonte

Fátima Lopes is now also entering the restaurant business. Widely considered to be Portugal’s most international fashion designer, Lopes new restaurant is more than a restaurant, it’s also a bar and the large pavement outside by the entrance will have tables when weather allows it. The cuisine will be contemporary Portuguese, created by João Simões, a rising star in Lisbon’s gastronomy who’s won the Junior Chef distinction at the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS). He’s previously worked at Lisbon’s Bica do Sapato, Hotel Four Seasons Provence (France), and until recently was at one of the restaurants of Altis Belém Hotel. In addition to the food you can expect good background music and drinks served until 2 A.M. at the bar. http://www.chiadounique.com/

Lisbon will be the backdrop for ABC’s hit reality show this spring.  The Bachelorette brings more than 80 people, including production team and contestants, to Lisboa during four days in April. The group will stay at Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa, a member of Turismo de Lisboa. São Jorge Castle, the No. 28 tramcar route and Sintra are just a few of the settings where the filming will take place, some of which will be filmed indoors. The format of this reality show involves a romantic atmosphere where the contestants use all their charm to try to be “the chosen one” by the woman who co-stars in the show. The filming of Lisbon will be broadcast in May.

Malo Clinic Spa Luso – Thermal & Medical Spa is scheduled to open in  mid summer 2010 and will offer new hydro-massages, relaxing showers and some hidropinia treatments (water ingestion – drinking waters to alleviate some respiratory symptoms). ³Água Termal de Luso² in Centrohas a remarkable therapeutic effect on chronic disorders of the renal-urinary system, hypertension, metabolic disorders, rheumatism, locomotion system and chronic respiratory disorders and skin ailments. Due to its diuretic and detoxifying effects, the water absorption from the Thermal Water Fountain has a therapeutic effect on chronic disorders of the renal-urinary system, hypertension, metabolic disorders, rheumatism, locomotion system and chronic respiratory disorders and skin ailments.

The Southern European Atlantic Diet? A new report by the University of Porto Medical School points to how the traditional diet of northern Portugal has resulted in very low rates of death from heart disease. Not a surprise with a diet based in fresh fish and salt cod, red meat, pork, local dairy products, vegetables and potatoes; and Portuguese wine with meals.

So, think of the new saying “A bowl of Caldo Verde soup ( a rich mix of shredded cabbage, potato, garlic, onion and olive oil) keeps the doctor away.  And maybe some local smoked (Chouriço sausage  and white corn bread with that? This is, after all, the land of Vinho Verde-  a fresh, slightly sparkling wine . When it comes to fish, dishes based on river lamprey mix with cod, (Bacalhau, for the hearts and stomachs of the Minho’s population. As for meat, local favorites include the (Serrabulho, which begins its cooking process as boiled pig’s blood before blending with rice. There are also the crackling pork (Rojões) and leg of pork à Clara Penha.

Carthaginians, Celts, Romans, Moors, all left their mark on Lisbon. The Portuguese capital is said to be the oldest still-inhabited city in Europe after Athens, and every time a hole is dug, something from a very distant past is revealed. Many of those archaeological finds were unearthed around the Castle of St. George (it was given that name in the 14th century after King João of Portugal married the English princess Philippa of Lancaster), and the site includes a small museum with the most important finds. However, the archaeological site itself has remained closed since the mid-90s until today. Lisbon is now the only European capital with an archaeological site showing remains from constructions dating back to the Iron Age all the way to the 18th century. This is one of the rare sites on Earth where you can see the presence of so many civilizations, and for those interested in archaeology or the history of Lisbon, it’s a site not to miss when visiting the city and one of its most beloved landmarks.

If you are riding the Lisbon Trolley 28E on the afternoon and Sunday, June 6 prepare for a different journey, the sound of the traditional Portuguese Fado. This initiative, part of the program of celebrations in Lisbon will be offered on 11,13,16 and June 20, 2010. Between 4 and 8 p.m., A normal ticket history Lisbon trolley, giving access to a lively journey to the sound of Fado more traditional and rich, in a show for all ages and can be enjoyed by “alfacinha “or the many visitors who flock to Lisbon and whose journey in 28E is a must. With the Trolley 28, Fado gets a new stage that slides from Martim Moniz to Prazeres, through grace, Alfama, Bairro Alto and Bica.
Come travel with the car to the sound of Fado!

As part of  the “Douro Emotions” program, the town of Lamego (Norte) will hold a Food Festival Douro Indoor on the 16 to 20 of June in conjunction with the Festival da Bôla, the Motor Track Vila Real and Music Festival in Peso da Régua , which take place on 19 and June 20; 24-27 June and 1-4 July, 2010. This is an initiative of the Regional Tourism Authority of Douro, in partnership with the School of Hospitality and Tourism of the Douro, Lamego City Council, the School of Technology and Management and HTDOURO – Association of Hotels and Tourism Douro promoted by municipalities of Vila Real, Lamego and weight of the Ruler, and you want to bring fun events to the cities of the area.

Visit the Promontory of Sagres and explore the “Novos Ventos” (New winds) exhibition – an innovative approach to the Portuguese discoveries and wind and sea energy. Open until December 31, 2010.

The exhibition itinerary has seven stages, seven thematic sections with historical and scientific content, establishing an analogy between technical innovations in the past – such as the navigational instruments that enabled the Portuguese to discover new worlds in the 15th century – and modern technologies, with special emphasis on the use of renewable energies. Located outdoors, this itinerary offers an amazing 3 km promenade, surrounded by the promontory’s unique landscapes – that 600 years ago was considered to be the “end of the world”. In order to gain a better understanding of the historical importance of this site – a point of passage for many 15th century navigators, cartographers and captains – visitors can watch a film about Sagres and the Infante D. Henrique, that will be screened in the former munitions warehouse that has been converted into an auditorium.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the Promontory and the Fortress of Sagres – a historical, cultural, natural and landscape heritage site of incomparable value, located in the heart of the Nature Park of the Costa Vicentina.

The Allgarve program is in its fourth year, offering a more ambitious and wider range of events linked to culture, entertainment and sport. The aim is to promote the Algarve as a quality tourist destination, associated with glamour and sophistication.

Besides its beautiful beaches, this region has unique and ideal characteristics for all kinds of sports, as well as for organizing cultural events and entertainment. Allgarve Gastronomy offers a blend of sophistication and tradition at the the Cataplana Experience and Culinary Festivals, where leading chefs provide you with the chance to savor some of the best regional products. Sport is a major activity in the Algarve, where you will find unique conditions, as well as pleasant spaces for a round of golf, water sports and many other activities. The aims of the Allgarve program continue to be to diversify the leisure supply by creating a new concept of summer tourism with different attractions that meet the expectations of the most demanding tourists, generating a new reputation and attracting larger tourist flows to the Algarve in the medium and long term. Allgarve’10 therefore seeks to continue to provide you with the chance to enjoy lifetime experiences.

Sagres will open a the Rota Vincentina hiking  trails that will start in Santiago do Cacem and finish in Sagres. The route will have the historical trail markers that passes by the major villages and a sub path called fishermen route that goes along the coast. This project is being developed in partnership with Associacao Casas Brancas e Almargem and should be up and running by November 2011.

The Yeatman opens its doors in July 2010. It will be the first five-star from the Portuguese city Vila Nova de Gaia.  All the rooms will overlook the spectacular ‘Ribeirinha’ Porto and are decorated in a classical style. The construction of The Yeatman began in May 2006 by the Fladgate Partnership, responsible for distribution of , Taylor’s, and with more than 300 years of history. Along with the ancient  cellars where they mature slowly famous nectars, The Yeatman was built on 2.6 hectares in the town center.

With a strong commitment in protecting the environment, half property of the hotel is designed with gardens, which will highlight an olive tree more than 1,300 years old and other trees that have been protected in the building. The rain water will be reused to water the garden, which will offer a Butterfly House. Many of the garden’s plants are endangered species in Portugal, as well as a variety of birds they attract.

The hotel was founded with the goal of being environmentally friendly and is perfectly integrated into the landscape, mimicking the slopes of the Douro River  coveted to growing grapes. A total of 82 rooms, of which 55 are superior, with 40 m2 and a price of 260 euros per night without breakfast. Executive rooms, a little smaller, 36 m2, cost 215 euros and include breakfast.

The master suite hotel is separated from the rest of the building and can be accessed from the garden. This is an open place of 126 m2 with a rotating bed can look to the fireplace, to the bathroom or to the spectacular views over the Douro and the city of Porto. The price for one night is 750 euros.

The other suites of The Yeatman was inspired by the philosophy of wine. Sleeping in one of them is like sleeping in a barrel, literally, as they have built headboards shaped like wine bottles.

The finest cuisine – Wine is the dominant theme of this place. Not only the port, but are intended to become a hotel wine from all regions of the country. In fact, rooms will be sponsored by wineries where you can test each of the different wines offered by the Portuguese grapes. The aim of The Yeatman is to ally the best location, the best cuisine and the best views. To do this, will have the largest winery in a country hotel, with more than 30 000 bottles, and one of the best chefs , Ricardo Costa, which aims to renew the Michelin star who got into the restaurant Casa da Calçada de Amarante. At the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, where you can enjoy, among other things, a private dinner in the candlelight, or themed dinners every Thursday, with wine tastings, and guests connected with the world of wine. The Yeatman aims to become a landmark luxury hotel at the international level, And for relaxation, there is a 2,000 m2 spa with 10 treatment rooms , indoor and outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam bath. The outdoor pool .

The Great Moliceiros‘ Regatta will be held on July 10th, a unique event that will fill the city of Aveiro with color!

After being closed eight months for renovations, the Luso Thermal Spa on the western slope of the Buçaco Mountains has reopened. Set in a zone of great natural beauty, the Luso Thermal Spa has long been an ideal site to relax amid green and exuberant scenery. But now, after significant work by the Grupo Central de Cervejas, the spa offers the Malo Clinic Spa Luso – Thermal & Medical. Beyond the classic water spa, the Luso facility will offer well-being and alternative therapies. The therapeutic properties help to treat respiratory diseases, renal problems, arthritis, bone and muscle problems, and bad circulation.

The Pena Aventura Park has an area of 16 acres and beside the great variety of activities; it also offers a nice and comfortable bar, a Panoramic Restaurant (2nd phase), commercial area, Bungalows (2nd phase) and parking available and accessible to all people. One of our values is Nature Conservation so smoking is not allowed in the park and is only allowed in the marked areas.Package for 4 for 2 nights- 280€ (70€pax.)

The authors of Picture Portugal, the film studio project that is to be created in Portimão and its respective fund that will finance the shooting of 11 north-American movies in Portugal, are still looking for investments from American companies including some of the biggest producers in the USA. Speaking to Lusa News Agency, Luis Carito, president of Portimão Urbis, the municipal company that is responsible for Picture Portugal, admitted that the planning has somewhat “skidded” off course due to a delay in the project’s economic study, but guaranteed that “the project is still going forward”.

Carito explained that, “promotional actions for the project have multiplied over the past few months, as has contact with main north-American ‘majors’, to integrate the holding that we intend to create”. “Two weeks ago, because of the Oscars, we were in LA where we held a huge promotional auction at a dinner with 600 people from the industry and met with main producers”, Luis Carito explained. Among potential investors who have been approached are CBS-Paramount, Universal, Fox, Sony and Warner Brothers, they will join Portuguese investors, alongside national ambassadors such as actor Joaquim de Almeida and Carlos Mattos, Portuguese businessman and co-winner of two Oscars (in 1989 and 1991) for the invention of filming equipment that made a difference to the films ‘ET’, by Steven Spielberg, and ‘Cotton Club’, by Francis Ford Coppola. The aim is to convince key players to invest part of the €25 million necessary to build the first phase of the studio complex, which will comprise five studios measuring 11,600 square meters, as well as the €7.5 million that will guarantee the shooting of 11 films in Portugal.

Lisbon was in the world’s top ten meetings and conventions cities last year, according to figures released by the International Congress & Convention Association (ICCA). By hosting 98 international events, the Portuguese capital increased its world ranking by two places compared with 2008, achieving a higher showing than London and Madrid in the process. Portugal claimed 17th spot in the list  in 2009, hosting a total of 168 events throughout the year.

The Madeira Wine Rally is known as one of the most important competitions of the European Rally Championship. Some of the most famed names in the world of intercontinental car racing usually participate in this rally, many times with the intention of testing their newest rigs. Thousands of people gather in the mountain sites of Madeira looking for the best areas in order to enjoy the cars in their best performance. For three days, from 5th to 7th August, 2010, the competitors will drive along the narrow and winding roads of Madeira Island, thrilling the public with their heroics.

The Yellow Lagos Beach Hotel is a new five-star resort located by the beach in the Meia Praia district of Lagos, in the western Algarve. The hotel has 220 comfortable guest-rooms (including 11 suites), all fully equipped with air-conditioning, heat, direct-dial telephone and TV. Facilities include 3 swimming pools (2 outdoor and 1 indoor), a bar, 2 restaurants, tennis court, games room, private garage parking, children’s playground, entertainment area, a spa and health club with gym, sauna and Jacuzzi.

Once, one of Bairro Alto’s trendiest bars – B’Artis is back with a new look and name. It has dropped the B and is now simply called “Artis,” focusing more on wine — all Portuguese wines. The wood-rich interior has been maintained, and decorating the walls are some classic/vintage objects and a few musical instruments. Artis has always been known for its jazz soundtrack, and that continues to be heard along with chill-out sounds. The wine can be served by the glass starting at 3 euros, but if you prefer beer that’s just 2 euros. It also serves “petiscos” with the toasted chicken sandwich being the most popular over the years. Those “petiscos” range in price between €4.90 and €9.90, and according to the chalkboard list placed outside, they include the traditional Portuguese “caldo verde” (known in English as “green soup”). You may also order a cheese or ham plate and sample some Portuguese liquor such as port and ginginha.

Foodees in Elvas are cooking up the largest Bacalhau Dourada cod-fish dish in the world, using six thousand eggs, 350 kilos of potato, the same of cod-fish, and 20 liters of olive oil, to feed 3,000 people and make the Guinness World Book of Records this is a typical dish of Elvas, cooked up in a 20 by 2 meter dish of 3,000 people. The historic  city of Elvas is located near the border between Portugal and Spain and is on the main highway between Lisbon and Madrid.

Tomar, about 90 minutes from Lisbon, has a magnificent castle, especially when rendered in Legos… In fact some 3 million blocks with be used for the displays. So be sure to check out the first  “TOMAR 2010, LEGO® Fan Event” from June 10 to 13, 2010 – open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and see models of some of the great sites of the City of the Templars.

The acclaimed chef José Avillez has teamed up with wine maker José Bento dos Santos, at Quinta do Monte d’Oiro to co-author three new Lisbon wines. They are:
+ JA 2005 Red
100 % Syrah , 14.5% Vol. Eight month sin oak.
+ Paisagens  2007 Red
Grapes Syrah (80%) Tinta Roriz (20%) 14% Vol Two months in  oak
+ Tavares 2005 Red
100% Syrah  14.5% Vol.

The title of “Very Clean Hotel” has been given by the site Venere.com, and its reader to a hotel on the  Avenida da Boavista, in Porto. The Quality Inn Portus Cale (72 rooms) is indeed a clean gem, and is part of the Grupo Choice Hotels Europe.

TravelSmith, a catalogue company that offers travel clothing, travel accessories and travel shoes for women and men is featuring images of Sintra and the Azores in their 2010 Spring catalogues. The company writes: “Eternally whimsical and singing with joy.” This line from a classic song heard in Lisbon’s fado clubs best describes Portugal. Travel with us to this dynamic country where past and present mingle to inspire your spirit of discovery.

Madeira Island is not only famous for its Flower Festival and lively New Year’s Eve party, there’s a busy list of events organized throughout the year. Next up this year is the popular Atlantic Festival featuring a massive fireworks display, one of the most impressive in Europe. In early August, the Madeira Wine Rally takes place in various locations across the island and is part of the European Rally Championships. This is followed by the Madeira Wine Festival in September which has shows and exhibitions in the capital Funchal and the grape harvest in Câmara de Lobos.
On nearby Porto Santo, the Columbus Festival celebrates the life of one of the island’s most famous former residents.

June 2010 (5th, 12th, 19th & 26th): Atlantic Festival
June 2010 (23rd to 25th): Classic Car Rally
August 2010 (5th to 7th): Madeira Wine Rally
September 2010 (2nd to 5th): Madeira Wine Festival
September 2010 (16th to 18th): Columbus Festival (on Porto Santo)
December 2010 (31st): New Year’s Eve Festivities
March 2011 (5th & 8th): Carnival Party
May 2011 (7th & 8th): Madeira Flower Festival