What's the Craic - What is this?
You may know already, but we've been running trips from Tellus360 since 2012, vast majority of them to Ireland but some also to Scotland, and now we also have Portugal on the horizon. It all started back in the early days of Tellus360 - Folks were visiting the store for shopping, art, furniture and gifts. Really, I think they were just visiting for the free wine and to hear Joe’s hearty laugh echo throughout the building.. Regardless of why they were there, nearly everyone would be talking about their connections to Ireland; how beautiful it is, and that they always wanted to visit, but never had the chance or that the timing was never right. Actually, the most frequent excuse was that it was too expensive, and took a month to fly there.In hearing this all too often: “Feck it, we should organise a trip to Ireland! It will be class!!!”
Mairtin made a few phone calls home to Ireland, arranged a bus, a driver, and all the accommodations. The first trip was in May 2012 and we've been running them ever since.
Although the trips are open to everyone and anyone who wants to join in, everyone who has been on the trip has had one thing in common - Tellus360! Between locals, regular to the store / bar, musicians, staff and just friends from around Lancaster we’ve managed to pull together groups of between 18 and 30 lunatics to come across the pond on what have been described as "best trips of our lives".
We've outlined the itinerary below, but please keep in mind a few keys things:
This is not your typical "big bus tour of Portugal"
Group is kept nice and small
There are plenty of double night stays, and the pace is chill
If you love Tellus you will love this trip
We'll meet at Lisbon Oriente Train Station, and hop on the train towards Porto. On arrival to Porto, our bus will be waiting to bring us straight out to Douro Valley - one of Portugals largest and most prominent wine making regions.
First stop - Wine Tour.
Considering you'll likely to be drinking some of it on this trip, we figured it best to start the trip by giving everyone a proper understanding of Portuguese wines, the various regions and assortment of grapes that thrive here.
We leave the terraced vineyards and golden hills of the Douro Valley behind as we travel north toward Braga, one of Portugal's oldest and most vibrant cities.
The route winds through peaceful countryside, olive groves, and forested hills before gradually entering the lush green landscapes of the Minho region.
Along the short hour and thirty-minute journey, enjoy views of traditional villages and rolling farmland that showcase the quieter side of northern Portugal
We should get into Braga in time for lunch - So we'll give you a general lay of the land before giving everyone a bunch of free time to explore. We'll remeet when our hotel rooms are ready and make plans for the evening.
It's another relatively short hop from Braga, straight into the center or Porto City.
En route the landscape shifts from a patchwork of small towns, vineyard-covered hills and eucalyptus forests to a low-rise, hilly and colourful city, bustling with riverside charm.
Discover the rich flavours and traditions of Porto's world famous wine culture witha guided Port tasting tour.
Explore atmospheric cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, where century-old barrels age the region's iconic Port wines. Learn about the craftmanship behind each style from ruby and tawny to vintage - and enjoy a curated tasting that highlights their unique aromas and character.
We're always big fans of a great walking tour to get everyone orientated and get the lay of the land. You're gonna need your good shoes for this one, Porto is seriously hilly.
Porto is one of those places where it's great to just go and get lost.
Of course, we will help you find all of our favourites, will set you up for everything that you need for the day and will never be too far away - But this day is to do what the Portuguese have done all over the world for centuries - Explore.
Today, we will be travelling south from Porto into the heart of Portugal's Silver Coast, a region known for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and relaxed coastal atmosphere. The drive takes you through peaceful countryside, pine forests, and small farming villages before reaching the shoreline.
We are still confirming whether we are going to stay in Peniche, Nazare, or somewhere inbetween - the whole country is just so beautiful. Between Peniche and Nazare, the coast is dotted with charming seaside communities, quiet coves, traditional fishing spots and long stretches of sandy beach. It's an area where ocean views meet rural landscapes, offering a blend of natural beauty and authentic local life
Discover two of Portugal’s most captivating coastal towns, each offering its own unique charm. In Peniche, experience the town’s strong maritime heritage as you wander its rugged coastline and vibrant harbour. Visit the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Carvoeiro, explore the historic Peniche Fort, or simply enjoy the sweeping ocean views that make this area a favourite for nature lovers. Peniche is also renowned for its fresh seafood and beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a moment by the water.
Continue on to Nazaré, famous for its golden sands and dramatic seaside scenery. Explore the lively beachfront promenade, ride the funicular to the clifftop Sítio district for spectacular views, and visit the iconic lighthouse overlooking Praia do Norte, home to the world-record giant waves. With its mix of traditional fishing culture, scenic lookouts, and inviting cafés, Nazaré offers a warm and unforgettable taste of Portugal’s Atlantic coast.
This one spot on the west coast of Portugal is home to the largest waves in the world, and they fire from Oct to March every year.
The mega huge waves only happen a few times a year, but we'll be watching the forecasts like a hawk. If there is a chance of some giant wave action, we will be sure to chase down there to catch a glimpse of the largest waves in the world.
One of our absolute favourite towns maybe in the whole world - Ericeira
If you can imagine a really chilled out surf town mixed with a local fishing town; throw in some gorgeous tiny restaurants; and end each day with the best sunsets eyes can witness - You're getting close to what Ericeira is all about.
As usual,
One of the key reasons we picked the dates for these trips is to be in Ericeira on the weekend. Chef's kiss emoji :D
The Saturday morning market is incredible, the town is just buzzing and the place is just really alive with people. Grab an espresso, sit outside and soak it all up.
Just 20mins from Ericeira is the town of Mafra - We'll pop up there for a tour of Mafra palace, and pair that all with a lunchstop in that town. We'll also get time to check out their local markets and practice pronouncing things incorrectly in Portuguese - A really lovely way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
As we wind south, the scenery shifts from the rugged charm of surf-loving Ericeira to the refined elegance of Cascais with its marina, promenades and seaside cafés.
Depending on what route we choose, we may pass through the tranquil landscapes of the Sintra Cascais Natural Park - an area rich with pine forests, rolling dunes and breathtaking ocean viewpoints. Each turn reveals authentic Portuguese character, from whitewashed homes perched above the sea to hidden coves and historic fortresses watching over the shoreline.
It's hard to come to this part of the world and not visit Sintra and the National Palace of Pena - a UNESCO World Heritage site, where we'll explore stunning palaces and lush gardens.
Again, you'll definitely need your good walking shoes for this one..
Surprise - Another gorgeous seaside town!! :D
Our general plan to to get into Cascais around lunchtime, giving everyone time to just chill and decompress after what will be a full morning of walking.
Rest of the day will be doing last bits of shopping, strolling the marina, re-packing bags and enjoying one last group meal together.
Ericeira to Lisbon Airport is approx 45mins - We'll run a shuttle bus to the airport for anyone flying out that morning
Cascais has hourly trains straight into the center of Lisbon - If staying on after our trip, this is a really nice way to get back into Lisbon.
Or, if you want to get door-to-door to your next hotel Uber's are super cheap in Portugal
We'll see you again in Lancaster, real soon!
Where should we fly into?
We've planned this around everyone flying in/out of Lisbon.
If it's easier for you to go in/out Porto then no problem, just a couple things you should note. Check with us and we'll help with that.
Where will we be meeting on Day 1?
Regardless of whether you are flying in on Day 1, or have come in a day or two early, we will be meeting at Lisbon Oriente Train Station, so we can catch. the train towards Porto. Times and exact location sent out approx 2 weeks in advance.
This train station is approx 15mins taxi from "downtown" Lisbon, or 7mins taxi from Lisbon Airport.
(This is not the downtown Lisbon train station)
How many more friends will I make
This trip will be limited to approx 25 guests. This will ensure that we can get around to the smaller towns and more quaint accommodations.
In saying that, some of our friends and family will be joining us for various parts of the trip, so this number will fluctuate up and down throughout the trip.
I'm a solo traveller - Can I join?
Absolutely, but there is a single supplement to ensure you have your own room. But, yes, we nearly always have solo travellers with us.
How fit do I need to be? Is there much walking/hiking etc?
You can go as hard or as soft as you'd like. There will be big hiking and sea swimming options for those who are up for it, but more chilled out options for others.
You will have the option to take a surf lesson if you're up for it.
Recently we've noticed that most folks easily pass their 10,000 step count each day. Hopefully that's a good guide for you.
Porto is super-hilly, as is our trip to Pena Palace. You can take electric tuk tuks and taxis around the place to make it easier. If unsure, check with us and we'll help you figure it out.
What's included?
That's all on the next page, but if you're not sure just reach out - tellus360@lallytours.com
Inclusions
All transport - Private tour coach, passenger ferries, vehicle ferries
All accommodation - 4-star level, or best available
On board guide/host from start to finish
All breakfasts - Full hot breakfasts are served each morning
All activities - all group activities are included
3 x group dinners - Enough to keep us together, but also leaving you plenty of free time to explore for yourself
All credit card and booking fee's
What's not included?
Airfare - East Coast USA to Portugal is usually $750-$900, economy round trip including a check in bag
Driver Gratuity - Suggested at 15EUR per person per day
Lunch & Some Dinners - To give a rough idea: 8EUR on lunch will get you a sandwich and a black coffee, Dinner starters approx 5EUR, mains approx 13EUR
Travel insurance - it is heavily heavily advised to have your own travel insurance
Pop us an email tellus360@lallytours.com with any questions you have, or to simply ge
In top left of this screen you should see an option to download a PDF version of this
Brilliant! Click the button below to check pricing, availability and to make your booking.
If it is showing sold out, please do join the waitlist and spaces usually do become available. Unsure about anything, just pop us an email at tellus360@lallytours.com