The Portuguese were the greatest explorers in the yesteryears. For example, a Portuguese was the first European in South Africa, East Africa and India. This allowed the Portuguese to become renowned traders and would later amass a lot of wealth that to this day has continued to make their country great.

Apart from that quite popular history, you would be interested to know that Portugal is one of the most beautiful countries in Continental Europe. It is the most Westerly European country and this gives it an unlimited access to the Atlantic Ocean. Over and above the mainland, the archipelagos of Azores and Madeira belong to Portugal. This gives the country an advantage in attracting adventure tourism. If you are planning to visit the country, be sure to check out the following adventure destinations.

1. Vicentine coast - If you love exploring, then there is no better place in Portugal than the protected natural park of Vicente Coast where the high cliffs eroded by the Atlantic form into a fantastic shape and sweep to the long sandy
strand. It is the place to take a memorable photograph too.

2. Madeira - The remote villages and scenic mountainous hills will definitely make you fall in love with Madeira Island. You can hike into the hills, bike around the villages, sample the local delicacies or just soak in the Portuguese sun on the coast.

3. Azores - This is by far the hottest adventure destination in Portugal. With the high waves and breaks attracting the surfers and the Whales and dolphins attracting the animal enthusiasts, you can be sure you will not be alone appreciating the beauty of the Azores.

4. Estrela Mountain - Are you in a mood for mountain climbing? Welcome to the highest mountain in Portugal and start your Portuguese Adventure tour with a band. Apparently, this mountain is the gateway to the remote areas of medieval Beira Baixa.

5. Porto - Of course for those who derive their happiness from clubbing and attending high energy parties, the posh city of Porto should be your first target. Here, you will find an active fine dining sector as well as a night scene to rival that of London or Berlin. Not even Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, can touch Porto in terms of entertainment. It is the city to write your 'meet-the-people' adventures tale.

Portugal will never make the news as an adventure tourist destination. It wants to remain exclusive. Now that you know that the country is a hidden gem, why don't you head there for your next holiday or add it to your bucket list.