Europe is currently proving that “Mediterranean climate” was always a polite euphemism. Temperature records are falling across the continent, and if you have clients headed to Lisbon, Porto, or Barcelona this summer, they’re about to learn that firsthand. The fix isn’t canceling the trip, it’s being a little smarter about it: which cities to lean into, which to time carefully, and which itineraries quietly swap a 2 pm walking tour for an evening stargazing experience.

In this quarterly update, we’re rounding up our favorite cool-weather escapes, along with a few ways to keep the big cities enjoyable even when the weather has other plans.

A Quick Note on Using This Newsletter

This email edition is designed for easy browsing. For the full experience, click the button below to open Substack and read the full insight, trend, or itinerary.

Read the full newsletter here!

In this update:

• 🇵🇹 & 🇪🇸 Porto and Galicia: Pair northern Portugal with Spain’s Galicia region for fresher temps, fewer crowds, and two very different destinations in one trip.

• ☀️ Early mornings and late nights: Why not let the spa handle the heat of the day, and save the city for when it’s fresh and calm? We’ll explain how.

• 🧊 The “secret” to staying refreshed: Some interesting facts about water in Portugal, and where to drink the best of it.

• 🌿 Spotlight Itinerary: A 5-day deep dive into São Miguel Island in the Azores, a destination that’s becoming more popular by the day.

Quick Tip: September through December brings cooler days, thinner crowds, and, honestly, some of Europe's best weather, all while everyone else is still nursing their July sunburn. So the next time a client calls with a last-minute booking, don't panic. We’ve included a fabulous fall itinerary to keep them traveling!

Learn more here!

Ready to build something bespoke? Reply to this email or reach out at contact@patamarselect.com to discuss your upcoming 2026 and 2027 arrivals.

Warmly,
The Patamar Select Team

As we slowly move towards the hottest months of summer, the conversation about the weather is shifting. The news loves to play up the worst-case scenarios, and while it has been bad, there are plenty of things you can do to escape the heat and enjoy your time abroad.

Our focus is on a few places we don't see enough people visiting, and a few simple things you can ask us or any DMC to get more out of your booking requests.

🇵🇹 2 Quick bites about Portugal for July 2026

1. Porto and Galicia - A combo made in heaven!

Northern Portugal has flown under the radar for a long time, and that’s exactly why we love it. Beyond Porto and the Douro Valley, we’ve been heading further north to escape the heat and the crowds that dominate Portugal’s more famous routes. Pairing the Minho region with Spain’s neighboring Galicia makes for a trip that feels far more laid-back and taps into a shared history most travelers never hear about.

This northwest corner of Iberia is one of the few places where Portuguese and Galician are still spoken side by side, two languages close enough in sound and root that you can hear the region’s shared past in every conversation. It’s a land shaped by tough, granite-rich soil and a deep connection to the sea, where farmers and fishermen have worked side by side for centuries, and where unique local breeds of pork and beef are raised with the same care given to the region’s seafood. It’s a corner of Iberia that rewards slow travel, and one that’s simply a joy to wander.

Towns like Braga, Guimarães, Ponte de Lima, and Viana do Castelo, along with the “twin cities” of Melgaço and Monção, all sit just a short drive from Spanish towns such as Santiago de Compostela, Vigo, Pontevedra, and Ourense, and plenty more besides. Bordering the Atlantic, these towns benefit from the ocean’s natural cooling effect, keeping temperatures noticeably milder than much of the rest of Iberia and Europe.

For those who love to eat, there’s fresh fish and seafood, Rubia Gallega beef, and Porco Bísaro to dine on, alongside a rich selection of cornbreads and vegetables grown in gardens that thrive on the region’s year-round rainfall. And of course, every good meal deserves something to wash it down. The region is home to several notable wine regions, including Vinho Verde and Rías Baixas, as well as local beers, ciders, and a long-standing tradition of herbal infusions.

For those who love the outdoors, there’s no shortage of options, from dipping into a stretch of the Camino de Santiago, to exploring Peneda-Gerês National Park, to soaking in one of the many hot springs scattered across the landscape, including right in the city of Ourense. Beach lovers will be pleasantly surprised too, with cool Atlantic waters and stunning coastline, including the Cíes Islands nature reserve just west of Vigo.

2. How to beat the heat in Porto and Lisbon?

So you want to, and you should do a cultural walking tour or a food experience, but the temperature outside is less than inviting. We have you covered! For early risers, why not wake up to watch the sun rise, then enjoy a traditional breakfast of pastries and coffee? When you’re finished, head to the market with a local chef to pick up some ingredients for dinner. Dinner? Yes, dinner. Your chef will take everything back to their kitchen and have it ready for you later, while you spend the hottest part of the day right where you should be: at the hotel spa and pool, napping, reading, and working your way through a Port & Tonic. Come evening, you'll reunite with your chef to enjoy a meal built entirely from what you picked out that morning. That's how you beat the heat in style.

Or if you're not a morning person, let's just bump those tours to the evening. As the sun sets, we'll head out for petiscos (Portuguese tapas) and explore the city lit up at night. Or, if you're up for it, head underground, where the heat never reaches, for a fado show beneath the streets.

🌿 Spotlight Itinerary: Discover the Soul of Northern Portugal: A Journey Through Porto and Beyond

Here’s a quick itinerary for exploring the Azores, easily adapted anywhere from 4 to 7 days. Luxury infrastructure here is still catching up; the islands are very much “up and coming”, but the beauty and calm more than make up for it.

Your Azorean immersion begins in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel’s captivating capital. After settling into your thoughtfully chosen accommodation, the first afternoon is left open for personal exploration, time to start absorbing the island’s unique rhythm at your own pace.

From there, connect with the island’s culinary soul through a private cooking class at a local chef’s home. Guided by a passionate local expert, you’ll journey from the market to the kitchen, learning the secrets behind regional flavors before sitting down to enjoy what you’ve made. The rest of the day is yours to explore independently.

Next, get ready for some of the island’s most spectacular scenery on a series of private 4x4 excursions. One day can be dedicated to the iconic Sete Cidades, where twin crater lakes and sweeping panoramic views have captivated visitors for centuries, paired with a stop along the rugged coastline of Ribeira Grande and a lunch featuring local cuisine. Another day heads into the island’s volcanic interior for a Furnas tour, where geothermal vents, lush botanical gardens, and a soak in natural thermal waters make for an unforgettable (and included) day, lunch included as well.

Midway through your trip, set off from Ponta Delgada for a small-group whale and dolphin watching excursion into the surrounding Atlantic. More than 28 whale species pass through, or call, these waters home, so keep your eyes on the horizon. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing or exploring the town at your own pace.

For guests who want to keep exploring, renting a car is easy; the roads are simple to navigate, and the only real hazard is the occasional cow crossing. Head to the coastal town of Ribeira Grande, known for its beaches and surf scene, or simply follow your curiosity down side roads, many of which lead to hidden hot springs scattered across the island.

✨ Steal This Tip for Your Clients (with a little copy and paste action)

3. Pro tip for staying hydrated

At a restaurant, if you’re having a coffee but want a bit more hydration, just ask for a copo de água, and you’ll get a free glass of local tap water. By law, all food establishments in Portugal must offer free tap water alongside any bottled water they choose to sell.

But isn’t it risky to drink the tap water while traveling? In Portugal, the answer is a clear no.

”Tap water in Portugal is exceptionally clean and perfectly safe to drink. The country complies with strict European Union standards. Over 98.6% of mainland tap water meets or exceeds these guidelines. The World Health Organization (WHO) and local regulators monitor this to ensure daily safety.”

In fact, EU tap water is often just as safe, if not safer, than what you’ll find in places like the United States.

“Both the EU and the US have highly regulated drinking water, but they differ in their approaches. The EU generally maintains slightly stricter and more frequently updated technical baselines. Meanwhile, the US strictly regulates the exact amount of contaminants allowed, but often struggles with aging local pipes.”

So bring a reusable water bottle. It’ll cut down on plastic waste and save you money as you explore Portugal through the hot summer months. And for a nice local touch, flavor your water with fresh herbs, what locals call infusões, cold-steeped right in your bottle for a refreshing, distinctly Portuguese twist on staying hydrated.

🤝 Let’s Connect - There is still a lot of 2026 ahead!

Whether your clients are looking for the prestige of a chef’s table in Porto or the quiet solitude of a mountain hike in the Dão, the difference lies in the details. We all know travel has gone last-minute, and we are adapting to this new reality. If you really want to beat the heat, remember that September through December are some of the best times of the year to visit. If you have a client on the fence, this might be the push they need to get moving!

So, are you ready to build something bespoke? Reply to this email or respond to us at contact@patamarselect.com to schedule a brief consultation on your upcoming VIP arrivals.

Warmly,

The Patamar Select Team

As we move into May, the conversation around Portugal is shifting. While the classic routes remain as popular as ever, we are seeing a growing appetite for two things: deeper wellness and true geographic depth.

In this quarterly update, we’re looking at the arrival of a heavy hitter in Lisbon’s luxury landscape, a region that remains our favorite “secret” for escaping the summer crowds, and a comprehensive look at the country’s culinary stars.

A Quick Note on Using This Newsletter

This email edition is designed for easy browsing. For the full experience, click the button below to open Substack, where you can read the full insight, trend, or itinerary.

Read the full newsletter here

In this update:

• 🏨 Six Senses Lisbon: The wellness giant is moving into two 17th-century palaces. Here is what it means for your clients seeking a restorative city base.

• 🍇 The Dão Escape: Why this underappreciated region—with its high-altitude wines and private cellar access—is the perfect antidote to the crowded corridors of the coast.

• ⭐️ The Michelin Directory: We’ve compiled the full 2026 list of Portugal’s starred restaurants, along with how we can secure exclusive kitchen visits and chef’s tables for your VIPs.

• 🌿 Spotlight Itinerary: A 3-day deep dive into the soul of Northern Portugal, from after-hours access at Livraria Lello to artisanal workshops in Viana do Castelo.

• 🥣 The “Secret” to Local Greens: A simple, shareable tip for clients who want to eat like a local (and find their vegetables).

At Patamar Select, we don’t just book itineraries; we open doors that are usually kept closed. Whether it’s private market visits or guided hikes in the Arouca Geopark, we handle the complexity so your clients can experience the soul of the country.

Read the full newsletter here

Ready to build something bespoke? Reply to this email or reach out at contact@patamarselect.com to discuss your upcoming 2026 arrivals.

Warmly,
The Patamar Select Team

As we move into May, the conversation around Portugal is shifting. While the classic routes remain as popular as ever, we are seeing a growing appetite for two things: deeper wellness and true geographic depth.

In this quarterly update, we’re looking at the upcoming arrival of a heavy hitter in Lisbon’s luxury landscape, a region that remains our favorite “secret” for escaping the summer crowds, and a comprehensive look at the country’s culinary stars. Our goal remains the same: to provide you with the boots-on-the-ground intelligence and exclusive access required to turn a standard trip into a definitive Portuguese experience.

🇵🇹 3 Quick bites about Portugal for May 2026

1. Six Senses Comes to Lisbon

Six Senses is bringing its wellness-focused hospitality to Lisbon later this year, occupying two carefully restored 17th-century palaces, Palácio Lavra and Palácio de Pedrosas, near the historic Elevador do Lavra funicular. The property will follow the brand’s established approach: considered design, a serious wellness program, and a genuine connection to its surroundings. For clients who want Lisbon but prefer a quieter, more restorative base, this will be worth watching as details emerge. Reach out if you have clients who will want to be among the first through the door.

2. Favorite region to escape the crowds: Dão

As Portugal’s most visited corridors grow busier, the Dão region continues to offer something harder to find: space, authenticity, and depth. Tucked alongside the Serra da Estrela mountains, Dão is best known for its wines and its distinctive Serra da Estrela sheep’s cheese, but the regional capital, Viseu, is a genuinely underappreciated city with strong museums, good walking, and a relaxed pace that pairs well with a longer stay. A natural addition for clients who have already done Lisbon and Porto and are ready to go further. We offer private wine visits with some of the region’s most respected producers, including cellar access and tastings that are not open to the general public, as well as guided hikes and curated introductions to local artisans. If the Dão is a fit for your client, we can build something around it.

3. Portugal’s Michelin Landscape

Portugal now holds a notable roster of Michelin-recognized restaurants, and the list continues to grow. For clients with a strong interest in food, it’s worth building itineraries around these rather than treating them as an afterthought. We work directly with a number of these kitchens and can arrange reservations, kitchen visits, and in select cases, private dining experiences or chef’s table access that are not available through standard booking channels.

TWO STARS ❋❋

Funchal – Il Gallo d’Oro
Galé – Vila Joya
Leça da Palmeira – Casa da Chá da Boa Nova
Lisbon – Belcanto
Lisbon – Fifty Seconds
Lisbon – Henrique Sá Pessoa
Porches – Ocean
Porto – Antiqvvm
Vila Nova da Gaia – The Yeatman

ONE STAR ❋

Almancil – Gusto by Heinz Beck
Amarante – Largo do Paço
Braga – Palatial
Bragança – G Pousada
Cascais – Fortaleza do Guincho
Cascais – Kappo
Évora – A Cozinha do Paço
Faro – Alameda
Funchal – Desarma
Funchal – William Restaurant
Guimarães – A Cozinha
Lagoa – Bon Bon
Lisbon – 2 Monkeys
Lisbon – Cura
Lisbon – Encanto
Lisbon – Epur
Lisbon – Feitoria
Lisbon – Grenache
Lisbon – Kabuki
Lisbon – Kanazawa
Lisbon – Loco
Lisbon – Marlene
Lisbon – Sála
Lisbon – Yōso
Montemor-o-Novo – Mapa
Peso da Régua – Schisto
Portimão – Vista
Porto – Blind
Porto – DOP
Porto – Éon
Porto – Euskalduna Studio
Porto – Gastro by Elemento
Porto – In Diferente
Porto – Le Monument
Porto – Pedro Lemos
Porto – Vila Foz
Reguengos de Monsaraz – Esporão
Santarém – O Balcão
Silgueiros – Mesa de Lemos
Sintra – Lab
Sintra – Midori
Tavira – A Ver Tavira
Vila do Conde – Oculto

🌿 Spotlight Itinerary: Discover the Soul of Northern Portugal: A Journey Through Porto and Beyond

Here’s a quick itinerary to get a week-long adventure in Portugal started. Focused more on Portugal’s culture and soul, these three days will showcase the heart of Portugal.

Your immersive cultural exploration begins upon arrival in Porto, a city steeped in history and vibrant traditions. After a seamless transfer to your centrally located hotel, the afternoon invites you to step back in time. Accompanied by your private English-speaking expert guide, you will wander through the UNESCO World Heritage historical center of Porto. Here, the narrative of the city unfolds through its iconic azulejo tiles, telling stories on building facades, and within the breathtaking Igreja de São Francisco, an exemplar of Portuguese Baroque artistry. As daylight fades, an exclusive after-hours visit to Livraria Lello awaits, offering a unique perspective on this architectural gem and a glimpse into its rare book collection, including the fascinating Gemma Room. The evening concludes with a curated dinner at a local restaurant, offering authentic Portuguese cuisine.

The adventure continues as we venture north to Viana do Castelo, a city renowned for its deep cultural roots. Here, you will participate in a private workshop to learn the history and, perhaps, craft your own traditional cabeçudo, a distinctive folkloric figure. Following a delightful lunch at a local eatery, the afternoon is dedicated to the enriching Museu do Traje, an institution that preserves and showcases the region’s traditional costumes and textile heritage, offering a tangible connection to the past. Returning to Porto, you’ll carry with you a deeper appreciation for the distinct cultural tapestry of this northern Portuguese region.

Our journey then leads us to the breathtaking natural beauty of Castelo de Paiva and the Arouca Geopark, a UNESCO Geological site. You will embark on a guided tour of the Paiva Walkways, an 8km boardwalk that masterfully navigates the dramatic landscape along the Paiva River. This accessible walk offers stunning vistas as it winds through rugged terrain, with impressive stairways that ascend and descend the valley, showcasing the raw power and beauty of nature. To replenish your energy after this invigorating experience, a traditional lunch will be served at a characteristic Portuguese restaurant, allowing you to savor local flavors amidst picturesque surroundings. On your final day, you will enjoy a private transfer to Porto International Airport, or perhaps choose to extend your stay and delve further into the wonders of Portugal.

✨ Steal This Tip for Your Clients (with a little copy and paste action)

One consistent piece of feedback from first-time visitors to Portugal is that they expect more vegetables on the plate. The answer is almost always in the soup. Portuguese soups, from caldo verde with kale and potato to lighter seasonal broths, are a genuine part of the daily table, not an afterthought. At any traditional tasca, accepting the soup of the day is a reliable way to eat well, eat locally, and get a sense of how Portuguese people actually cook. Worth passing along. If your clients want to go further, we offer private market visits and hands-on cooking sessions with local chefs that bring this side of Portuguese food culture to life in a way that a restaurant meal alone cannot.

🤝 Let’s Connect

Whether your clients are looking for the prestige of a chef’s table in Porto or the quiet solitude of a mountain hike in the Dão, the difference lies in the details.

At Patamar Select, we don’t just book itineraries; we open doors that are usually kept closed—from after-hours access at Livraria Lello to private workshops with the artisans keeping Portugal’s folkloric traditions alive. As you review your bookings for the remainder of 2026, remember that we are here to handle the complexity, ensuring your clients see the “soul” of the country without the friction of crowds.

Ready to build something bespoke? Reply to this email or respond to us at contact@patamarselect.com to schedule a brief consultation on your upcoming VIP arrivals.

Warmly,

The Patamar Select Team

Our company is Patamar Select. Some of you might know us as Catavino; we went through a rebranding last year and now have our new look. This year has started off with a bang, as I’m sure many of you have already seen.

Today we’re going to talk about slow travel in Portugal, mainly, with a bit of Spain included. Over the next few weeks, our goal is to pick a few topics and run short, rapid‑fire webinars that we’ll post online for you to revisit. If you know anyone who might want to watch this, you’ll be able to share the link afterward.

At the end of this session, I’ll stay on for anyone who wants to linger and ask questions. You can also drop questions in the chat. Gabriella—my co‑founder and wife—is there and will help manage those.

Any questions you have, you can always get in touch with us.

(00:01:29)
Today we’re going to walk through why slow travel in Portugal makes so much sense. I’ll show you some of the areas in Portugal that are especially well‑suited for slow travel and what makes them unique. We won’t go deep into specific experiences or hotels—that can be another webinar—but we will highlight a few things we do and explain why Portugal is such an interesting destination for the slow traveler.

(00:02:10)
Portugal is often misunderstood. It’s sometimes seen as a small piece attached to Spain—some even jokingly call it “Spain’s beach,” especially Spaniards. But Portugal also includes the Azores, out in the middle of the Atlantic halfway to the Americas, and Madeira down to the south. Altogether, it’s a much larger and more diverse area than people realize.

Slow travel makes a lot of sense here. Even though Portugal looks small on a map, it takes time to get around. At Patamar, we often find ourselves explaining to clients that it’s not a place you simply drop into, see everything, and move on. It’s a place to linger, relax, enjoy, and explore. I hope to show you a few ways that approach really shines.

(00:03:09)
When preparing this webinar, I revisited the idea of “slow travel,” and honestly, there are a thousand definitions. Some people focus on longer stays. Others emphasize deeper immersion into experiences and locations. Many highlight a reduced pace as you move through a country. Sustainability is often tied to slow travel as well, partly through the influence of the slow food movement.

There’s also purposeful exploration—travelers wanting to discover something specific or understand something more deeply. When we design quick trips for clients, we often hear afterward, “I wish I could have gone deeper into some of these experiences.” That desire for more meaningful time is at the heart of slow travel.

(00:04:13)
Slow travel often means longer days—not exhausting days, but days with time to relax. It means having time off during a trip to explore on your own, ideally with guidance. We often help clients plan their “free days” by suggesting the best places to go based on their interests—art, nature, food, or culture.

Hiking, biking, and exploring on foot are closely tied to slow travel, and Portugal is full of hiking adventures. “Dirty hands” experiences—cooking classes, farm visits, sustainability workshops, volunteering—are also part of it. Portugal offers incredible opportunities for all of these.

Northern Portugal & Galicia

(00:05:54)
This past year, we’ve focused on finding places without crowds—places where you can relax and enjoy the view. One of those areas is the north of Portugal and Spain. Galicia is here, and just below it is northern Portugal, including the Minho. We’re doing more and more in this region because very few people go there. It’s a huge opportunity.

There are no massive cities like Porto or Lisbon. Instead, you have mid‑sized cities like Santiago de Compostela, Vigo, and Braga—though locals still call them “villages.” These areas offer incredible opportunities to explore.

One of our favorite villages is Ponte de Lima, the oldest village in Portugal. It sits along the Lima River with a stunning Roman bridge and views of Peneda‑Gerês National Park. For nature lovers and travelers who want culture without crowds, it’s perfect. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards, swim in the river, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Last year, we brought a group during the town’s festival. I was nervous because it was chaotic, but the group loved it. They interacted with locals, practiced Portuguese, and felt immersed in the community. It’s only an hour from Porto and a true hidden gem.

(00:08:32)
As you go further north into Spain, you’ll see more of this. This vineyard is from Granbazán in Galicia. The region—Galicia and the Minho—is very wet, especially in winter, but the rest of the year it’s lush and green. It’s often called “Green Spain” and “Green Portugal.”

Slow travel thrives here. There aren’t intense activities; instead, it’s a place to enjoy long lunches, hammocks, and quiet afternoons.

(00:09:39)
Santiago de Compostela is the endpoint of the Camino. People walk from France, from southern Portugal, or from the interior to reach the cathedral where St. James is said to be buried. It’s the purest form of slow travel—walking every day, meeting people from around the world, meditating through nature.

We’re planning a more luxurious Camino trip for a group—no hostels, nicer hotels, luggage transfers. Even when the Camino is busy, it never feels crowded because people are so spread out.

(00:11:35)
Another town along the way is Ourense, known for its hot springs. After days of walking, soaking in these natural pools is incredible. The town has a beautiful old center, great food, and is close to Ribeira Sacra, a unique wine region.

Ribeira Sacra & the Mini Douro

(00:12:41)
Ribeira Sacra is sometimes called the “mini Douro” because of its steep hills and dramatic vineyards. This past year, we created a slow‑travel experience at a tiny winery—maybe 20 or 30 barrels total. My friend Zach brought in a Michelin‑starred chef, and we had one of the best paellas I’ve ever eaten, right in his driveway.

This is slow travel: we arrived, walked down the hill, tasted wine, ate incredible food, and decided to cancel the rest of the day’s plans. We stayed, swam in the river, and enjoyed the moment. Experiences like this are why I love my job.

(00:14:24)
The north also includes the Picos de Europa, a massive mountain range in Asturias. It’s famous for cider, sausages, and Cabrales blue cheese. You can rent a cabin, hike, and disconnect completely. You physically can’t move quickly here—the roads don’t allow it—which is perfect for slow travel.

The Douro Valley

(00:15:22)
The Douro River winds through the region, but the Douro wine region is only a small part of it. Many hotels are along the river but not in the wine region. This can confuse travelers who think they’ll be surrounded by vineyards but aren’t.

One of our favorite experiences is taking an old admiral’s boat up the river. We once spent ten hours cruising to the Spanish border, swimming, eating, and relaxing. People told me afterward they’d never done a trip where they simply sat and did nothing—and loved it.

(00:17:35)
The Douro is one of the most manicured landscapes on earth. Because of the curves, you can’t get anywhere quickly. A winery across the river might take an hour to reach by car. That’s why we encourage people to slow down—one winery a day, a boat ride, a spa day.

There’s culture, museums, hiking, and excellent hotels like Six Senses and Torel. One of our favorite experiences is watching the sunset from one of the highest points in the valley, with dinner cooked on the spot.

Central Portugal: Serra da Estrela & Schist Villages

(00:19:21)
Moving inland, there’s a region many travelers ignore. It’s remote, but new hotels have opened, allowing us to bring clients there comfortably.

One village, Manteigas, sits deep in a valley with trout streams, forests, and mountains. Our favorite hotel, Burel São Lourenço, helped revive the historic wool industry. Visiting the old wool factory is surprisingly fascinating.

(00:21:12)
Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain in mainland Portugal. It has waterfalls, hiking trails, shepherds, and dramatic landscapes. In summer, it’s quiet and peaceful.

We work with small cheese producers where guests make fresh cheese in the morning and eat it at lunch. Combined with the scenery, it’s a highlight.

(00:23:22)
The schist villages, like Piódão, are made entirely of local stone. All the doors are painted the same shade of blue—supposedly because the hardware store only carried one color. It’s charming, with family‑run restaurants and natural spring pools.

We once spent ten days in this region and didn’t see another tourist outside the hotels.

The Alentejo & the Costa Vicentina

(00:24:53)
South of here is the Alentejo, one of Portugal’s largest regions. Most people visit Évora, but there’s much more.

Arrábida Natural Park is only 40 minutes from Lisbon, with markets, seafood, and stunning coastal hikes. Nearby Azeitão is known for cheese and tile‑making.

(00:25:50)
Along the western edge is the Costa Vicentina—the Fisherman’s Trail—running from Setúbal to Sagres. The entire hike is dramatic cliffs and ocean views. You can hike sections while staying in Comporta or small boutique hotels along the coast.

(00:27:12)
The Alentejo is also famous for its traditional wine made in clay pots called talhas. Some are centuries old. You meet the whole family, share meals, and drink wine directly from the talhas in November when they’re opened. It’s emotional, historic, and deeply slow travel.

The Algarve

(00:29:07)
In the Algarve, you don’t want to rush. You want to linger, listen to traditional songs, and enjoy the atmosphere.

The region also has Dark Sky certification. Near the Alqueva reservoir, you can take guided stargazing tours. One family loved it so much they did it two nights in a row.

(00:30:10)
The Algarve is known for beaches, but there are wonderful slow‑travel pockets. My favorite is Olhão, with its market and fresh oysters from the Ria Formosa lagoon. You can harvest oysters, eat them on the islands, and enjoy long lunches while the kids swim.

We also run oyster experiences in Setúbal and Olhão—waders on, chairs in the water, gourmet seafood meals, and wine.

The Azores

(00:32:40)
The Azores and Madeira are the ultimate slow‑travel destinations. Nothing moves fast. You can’t ferry between most islands, so you stay put and relax.

São Miguel is the largest island. You can drive around it in half a day, but there’s plenty to see. Sete Cidades is a beautiful volcanic caldera. The island is full of “happy cows,” and it’s true—they look like the happiest cows on earth.

Caldeira Velha is a jungle‑like hot spring area with multiple pools. Many people miss it because they go straight to Furnas.

(00:35:53)
Pico is one of my favorite islands. It looks like a child’s drawing of a volcano. Life is slow. Once, the car rental office was closed, and the owner told me over the phone, “You must be Ryan. I’m having coffee. I’ll be there soon.” When the credit card machine didn’t work, they said, “Just take the car. Bring it back in a couple of days.”

You can hike Pico Mountain with a guide. It’s about 2,200 meters and doable for many ages.

(00:39:20)
The Azores are also one of the best whale‑watching regions in the world. Around 70–80% of whale species pass through at some point. You can see humpbacks, sperm whales, bowheads, even blue whales. Peak season is late spring to early summer, but dolphins are year‑round.

Madeira

(00:40:15)
Madeira is often reduced to Funchal, but the magic is outside the city. The south is sunny; the north is lush and green. The mountains and natural parks are stunning.

The levadas—old irrigation channels—make for incredible hikes, but only in dry weather.

(00:41:29)
Madeira isn’t a “one‑day” destination. There are beautiful villages and villas where you can sit, relax, and take in the views.

Cabo Girão is a famous viewpoint with a glass terrace over a massive cliff. But the beach below is even better—quiet, scenic, and perfect for a long lunch with fresh local food.

Many travelers never see these lesser‑known areas because they focus only on Funchal.

Closing

(00:43:16)
I know I moved quickly, but I hope this was helpful. I’ll stay on to answer questions.

Next week, we’ll talk about multi‑generational travel—families traveling together, the best regions, and the types of experiences we can create.

This webinar will be posted on our Substack, linked in our newsletter.

Thank you for joining us today.

(00:44:14)
Gabriella: Did we get any questions?

(00:44:20)
Gabriella: No, but the lines are open. Anyone who’d like to ask something, please feel free.

(00:44:27)
Thank you for coming. My scheduling link is in the chat if you’d like a one‑on‑one session to discuss anything from this presentation.

(00:45:02)
If there are no questions, have a wonderful day.

(00:45:15)
Bye.

Our first sessions will take place on:

Slow Travel In Portugal

Wednesday, 18 February
5:30pm (GMT) / 17h30 (WET) / 12:30pm (EST) / 9:30am (UTC)
Google Meet Link (https://meet.google.com/oka-ymiv-pah)
Add this session to your calendar: (Download .ics)

Each session will focus on a specific theme, and we’ll keep them concise, practical, and genuinely useful.

Multigenerational Travel in Portugal

Wednesday, 25 February
5:30pm (GMT) / 17h30 (WET) / 12:30pm (EST) / 9:30am (UTC)
Google Meet Link (https://meet.google.com/vmx-yvzj-abg)
Add this session to your calendar: (Download .ics)

Lesser Known Portugal

Wednesday, 4 March
5:30pm (GMT) / 17h30 (WET) / 12:30pm (EST) / 9:30am (UTC)
Google Meet Link (https://meet.google.com/jng-mkfd-knr)
Add this session to your calendar: (Download .ics)

If you already have questions you’d like addressed in the first session, feel free to send them our way (tours@patamarselect.com). You are always welcome to ask any and all questions after Ryan wraps up his talk.

If there’s a topic you’d like us to dedicate a future webinar to, we’re all ears. These sessions are meant to serve you, your clients, and your teams.

No worries, if you can’t make the live sessions, we will be posting the recordings of each webinar so that you can watch them at your convenience.

We’re looking forward to connecting with you in a more dynamic way over the next few weeks. Thank you for your continued trust in Patamar Select.

Warm regards,
The Patamar Select Team

We are delighted to welcome you to the first edition of Patamar Select’s newsletter. Each quarter, we will share three trends shaping luxury travel in Portugal, a Steal This Tip you can copy and paste directly into your client communications, and a spotlight itinerary designed to spark ideas for your next proposal.

Our goal is to make this newsletter a resource you can return to whenever you want to plan extraordinary experiences in Portugal.

A Quick Note on Using This Newsletter

This email edition is designed for easy browsing. For the full experience, click the button below to open Substack, where you can read the full insight, trend, or itinerary.

Read the full newsletter here

3 Things to Know About Portugal Right Now

1. After-Hours Monument Protocol in Sintra and Belém

2. Conservation Concierge in the Azores

3. Insider Wine Hack in Bairrada and Beyond

Spotlight Itinerary: Northern Portugal and the Douro, Privately Curated

This sample itinerary showcases how Patamar Select prioritizes access, thoughtful pacing, and meaningful context over simply visiting more sites. The journey begins just outside Porto at a tranquil countryside estate near Braga and moves through Vinho Verde, the Douro Valley, Bairrada, and Porto.

Open the full itinerary to explore the complete day-by-day outline and see how every moment is curated to create lasting memories.

Steal This Tip for Your Clients (with a little copy and paste action)

For those of you craving privacy without losing five‑star luxury, Portugal’s Beira Interior is the region to watch. The newest trend for 2026 is “private village” stays, which feature standalone villas tucked inside historic estates. Guests enjoy exclusive perks, including kitchenettes, fireplaces, and quiet outdoor spaces, along with full access to top-tier spas and estate-level service.

Let’s Connect

As an early subscriber, you have priority access to something special. Our CEO, Ryan Opaz, is opening one-on-one calls this month with advisors and partners who want to explore opportunities, brainstorm itineraries, or simply get to know the Patamar Select philosophy firsthand. Book a time here: https://bit.ly/BookWithRyanOpaz

You can also reach our team at tours@patamarselect.com. We are excited to share ideas and build meaningful experiences with you.

Warm regards,
The Patamar Select Team

Read the full newsletter here

We are delighted to welcome you to the first edition of Patamar Select’s newsletter. Each quarter, we will share three trends shaping luxury travel in Portugal, a Steal This Tip you can copy and paste directly into your client communications, and a spotlight itinerary designed to spark ideas for your next proposal.

Our goal is to make this newsletter a resource you can return to whenever you want to plan extraordinary experiences in Portugal.

🇵🇹 3 Things to Know About Portugal Right Now

1. After-Hours Monument Protocol in Sintra and Belém

Sintra and Lisbon’s historic Belém district remain two of Portugal’s most iconic areas, but daytime visits are becoming crowded and rushed. High-net-worth travelers are increasingly seeking private, off-hour access for a more immersive experience.

The Hack. Partner with a luxury DMC to secure private access during the Blue Hour or at night.

The Experience. Imagine a silent, lantern-lit walkthrough of Palácio da Pena or a private descent into the gardens of Quinta da Regaleira after the gates close. Guests can explore hidden corners without the crowds, creating a storybook memory they will never forget.

Why It is Trending. Lisbon is introducing stricter daytime capacity limits in 2026. What was once a tourist bottleneck is now an opportunity for cinematic, dreamlike encounters with Portugal’s heritage. Agents can sell not just a visit but an exclusive moment in history that few will ever experience.

2. Conservation Concierge in the Azores

Luxury travel in the Azores is evolving. Clients no longer just want indulgence. They want to make a difference. This is about blending high-end comfort with science-led exploration and meaningful impact.

The Hack. Replace standard whale-watching with a private marine biologist-led expedition.

The Experience. Guests can track sperm whale vocalizations with hydrophones, assist with photo ID cataloging, or enjoy a private Volcano-to-Table dining experience in Furnas, where they can learn about volcanic geology firsthand. Every activity leaves a positive impact on the islands’ fragile ecosystem.

Why It is Trending. Travelers are seeking insider, sustainable experiences. By combining luxury with a sense of contribution, they leave the islands better than they found them. Agents can highlight this as a socially conscious luxury moment to appeal to clients.

3. Insider Wine Hack in Bairrada and Beyond

Portugal’s wine travelers are increasingly seeking authenticity. Large, polished tasting rooms are no longer the goal. Small, winemaker-led experiences are in, especially in the Bairrada region.

The Hack. Work with a local fixer to secure a private session with Maria at João Pato winery.

The Experience. Maria’s cellar is not open to the general public. Guests enjoy tasting small-batch, artisanal wines with the person whose name is on the bottle. This is a hands-on experience, where you may sometimes taste unfinished amphora wines and hear the stories behind each vintage.

Why It is Trending. Access to these artisanal winemakers has become the new status symbol. It is no longer about gold-leaf décor. It is about standing in a working cellar and sharing a deeply personal and authentic experience. Agents can sell this as a rare opportunity to connect with Portugal’s living wine culture.

🌿 Spotlight Itinerary: Northern Portugal and the Douro, Privately Curated

This sample itinerary showcases how Patamar Select prioritizes access, thoughtful pacing, and meaningful context over simply visiting more sites. The journey begins just outside Porto at a tranquil countryside estate near Braga and moves through Vinho Verde, the Douro Valley, Bairrada, and Porto.

Along the way, guests are hosted by independent, family-owned wine producers, gaining intimate insights into winemaking traditions. Season permitting, they can take part in a hands-on harvest experience in the Douro. Private river travel aboard a restored vintage yacht allows travelers to see the valley from a perspective few ever experience.

The program is anchored by carefully selected accommodations, including a Michelin-Key property in the Douro Valley and a historic oceanfront manor in Porto, each offering exclusive-use spaces and exceptional service.

This itinerary is designed as a flexible framework rather than a fixed program. It can be tailored to different client profiles while maintaining the flow and integrity of the experience, ensuring each journey feels personal and effortless.

Open the full itinerary to explore the complete day-by-day outline and see how every moment is curated to create lasting memories.

✨ Steal This Tip for Your Clients (with a little copy and paste action)

For those of you craving privacy without losing five‑star luxury, Portugal’s Beira Interior is the region to watch. The newest trend for 2026 is “private village” stays, which feature standalone villas tucked inside historic estates. Guests enjoy exclusive perks, including kitchenettes, fireplaces, and quiet outdoor spaces, along with full access to top-tier spas and estate-level service.

🤝 Let’s Connect

As an early subscriber, you have priority access to something special. Our CEO, Ryan Opaz, is opening one-on-one calls this month with advisors and partners who want to explore opportunities, brainstorm itineraries, or simply get to know the Patamar Select philosophy firsthand.

Book a time here: https://bit.ly/BookWithRyanOpaz

You can also reach our team at tours@patamarselect.com. We are excited to share ideas and build meaningful experiences with you.

Warm regards,
The Patamar Select Team

From Catavino Tours to Patamar Select, we’ve reimagined our brand to reflect who we are today: a luxury DMC rooted in sustainability, cultural immersion, and unforgettable hospitality. This is an introduction to the first quarterly one hitting your inboxes in January 2026. We have streamlined them to be easy to skim, filling them with links for you to explore further when you want the details.

What to Expect in These Emails

• Helpful insights & trends: Bite-sized updates on what’s shaping luxury, sustainable, and experiential travel.

• Steal this tip: A quick, shareable idea you can pass along to clients or colleagues (see below our signature for our first one!).

• Spotlight itinerary: A curated highlight from our catalog: this month, a full day in Furnas with Cozido cooking and cheese tasting.

Each section is crafted to inspire, inform, and make your work easier.

Stay Connected

Follow us on Instagram for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories:

👉 @patamarselect

Holiday Wishes 🎄

As the year draws to a close, we wish you a season filled with joy, connection, and discovery. Here’s to building unforgettable journeys together in 2026.

Warmly,

The Patamar Select Team

✨ Steal This Tip

Looking for the next big thing in Portugal? Skip the crowds and head to the Alentejo, now hailed as Europe’s new Tuscany. Travelers love its countryside estates, wine hotels, and farm‑to‑table dining.

Share Patamar Select