When the time comes to explore, there is so much to see and do

· Foz do Arelho
The town of Foz do Arelho is a 10 minute walk/2 minute drive and offers a bank, bakery, pharmacy, doctor, two mini supermarkets and more bars and restaurants. There is also a children's play park

· Obidos
The medieval walled town of Obidos is only a 15 minute drive away. Obidos was a gift from the King of Portugal to his wife. The town has narrow cobbled stone streets and whitewashed houses with blue trim and flowered window boxes draped in Bougainvillea. There are plenty of shops selling local ceramics, crafts and gifts. You can walk on the ramparts of the castle and enjoy a lazy lunch in one of the many restaurants. Obidos hosts an annual chocolate festival in Febraury, a medieval week in July and a Christmas festival in December. Easter is celebrated for a full week and culminates in a torchlight procession through the cobbled streets.

· Caldas da Rainha
Just a 10 minute drive away and offering several hyper-markets, fantastic shopping, hospital, train line into Lisbon and a daily market offering fresh fish and produce. Caldas is famous for its production of pottery, farm grown fruit and veg, beautiful flowers and home made cheeses. All at prices that put our supermarkets to shame!

· Lisbon
Head to the capital city for the day (55 minutes drive) to experience the diverse culture and architecture. At Lisbon's heart are wide tree-lined avenues graced by Art Nouveau buildings, mosaic pavements and street cafes. Visit the Aquarium at the Parque de Nacoes.

· Berlengas Islands
On a clear day, you can see these picturesque islands from the terrace. This natural reserve can be accessed by boat trips from Peniche (40 minutes drive). A fantastic day trip.

· Silver Coast Wine Route
The Silver Coast is one of Portugal's most exciting wine-producing regions. You can sample some excellent red and white wines by following the wine route.· The attractive coastal resorts of Sao Martinho do Porto and Salir do Porto are just a short drive away as are the additional surfing beaches in Peniche, the water park in Nazare and the cultural expeditions to Alcobaca and Fatima.