The vast white sands of the Silver Coast, Portugal, meet the cool, sapphire waters of the Atlantic to form some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. A string of typically Portuguese villages, where time has stood still, and larger family-orientated resorts are scattered along the rugged and beautiful coastline. The region plays host to several world-famous surfing beaches, attracting water-sports enthusiasts from far and wide. Many of the most popular beaches have sheltered areas for swimming, patrolled by lifeguards.

Visit the Silver Coast and you will discover a rich history and culture set amid the beautiful countryside and spectacular coastline. Various fascinating monasteries, convents and castles are open to visitors, scattered throughout the towns and villages. The historic cities of Lisbon, Coimbra and Oporto are well worth a visit and are excellent to walk around, absorbing their medieval atmosphere and marvelling at the beautiful architecture. A variety of interesting museums within the cities also play host to many local artistic treasures including porcelain and crystal artefacts.

The Silver Coast, Portugal, is renowned for its mouth-watering cuisine and variety of local wine. Many of the specialities are based around the delicious seafood from the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. You can sample one of the most popular of these dishes Caldeirada, a stew which combines a large variety of fish and shellfish with potatoes, tomato and onion. This area is also part of the largest wine growing region in western Portugal, where excellent red and white wines are produced. The sparkling Bairrada wines are very popular, and provide an excellent accompaniment to many of the traditional dishes of the region.

If you enjoy exploring the great outdoors, you will love spending time amid the beautiful scenery of the Silver Coast. Take a walk along the tranquil coastal beaches and rugged cliffs and you may be lucky enough to encounter some of the abundant and diverse animal and birdlife. If you prefer something a little more energetic, a great way to explore the coast and countryside is by bicycle. Golf is very popular in this part of Portugal, with several world-class courses to choose from, with none better than the breathtaking courses in the Holiday Resorts of CampoReal Golf Resort & Spa and Praia d'el Rey Golf & Beach Resort.

• Take a daytrip to Lisbon, the bustling Portuguese capital city, absorbing the historic atmosphere and fascinating culture.

• Try delicious local wine at the Festival do Vinho – the popular wine festival that attracts thousands of visitors to the town of Bombarral each July.

• Play a few holes on some of the most impressive golf courses in the world, set amid the beautiful landscape of the region.

• Adults and children alike will love spending time on the beautiful sandy beaches stretching for many miles along the Silver Coast.

• Follow in the Duke of Wellington's footsteps as you explore the remains of the famous Peninsular War fortifications around the town of Torres Vedras by bicycle.