Portugal

In the capital city of Lisbon, along the Tagus River, Gray & Co.’s expert walking guides put centuries of history and myriad architectural styles into context, offering an insider’s view of the majestic palaces, ornate cathedrals, cobblestoned streets and verdant parks of its seven hills. Our top places to stay in Lisbon range from the chic, centrally located Bairro Alto hotel to the opulent Verride Palácio.

Inland from Lisbon, the best biking is in the Alentejo region is well known for the historic city of Evora — a 15th-century royal capital, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cycle through the surrounding olive groves, vineyards, whitewashed villages, lakes and ancient cork orchards. From the immaculately restored São Lourenco do Barrocal country hotel, head right out on guided hike or bike trips or ride a Lusitano horse to the medieval castle in the nearby fortified village of Monsaraz. Or head to the super stylish Herdade Malhadinha Nova estate where horses, ATVs, bikes, wine-tasting and more await.

In the north of the country, the city of Porto’s UNESCO-protected Old Town features six bridges across the Douro River as well as Baroque and Beaux-Arts palaces and churches. Evidence of the city’s port-production is at every turn. Enjoy a private sunset boat cruise. Stay beside the headquarters of Taylor Fladgate port, at the Yeatman Hotel, which offers views across the river of the Old Town. Upstream an hour, the luxe Six Senses Douro hotel overlooks the river from a position among vertiginous vineyards – great for hiking.

The Algarve region is famous for walking long sandy beaches, golden cliffs, cork orchards, medieval towns and countless golf resorts. The perfect base is Vila Vita Parc, especially their owner’s Vila Azzurine (yes, we were the first to rent it!). Biking can be found near the beachside Bela Vista hotel and the Grand House hotel, a recently revived Belle Epoque architectural gem located right across the Guadiana River from Spain. Vamos lá!