A recent article published on the eTravelBlackboard website suggests that the areas "glistening inland lakes, quaint villages and pristine deserted beaches" rarely fail to charm visitors.

Visiting this region is also an opportunity to deviate from the often visited Algarve area of the country, which is very popular with tourists.

The claims echo those of the Association of Independent Tour Operators, which earlier this year outlined a range of other exciting areas of the country worth visiting.

Rosanna Melaragni, product manager for Portugal at Sunvil Discovery and member of the association, explained that Lisbon and its not too distant Cascais beach resort nearby are excellent places for tourists.

She explained: "Lisbon is definitely becoming an increasingly popular city break destination for its cultural monuments, historical value, elegant atmosphere and close proximity to glorious breaches. Portugal is no longer just about the Algarve."

Algarve Car Hire