TWO more ferocious forest fires have erupted in Portugal – and this time cops suspect the work of arsonists.
Entire villages were forced to evacuate and hundreds of firefighters rushed to the scene of the latest blazes in a disastrous summer across the Iberian Peninsula.
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Two major fires sparked in Pedrogao Grande, Leiria, Portugal on SaturdayCredit: EPA
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Firefighters battled the blazes from the air and the groundCredit: EPA
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Smoke and flames poured up into the sky from the forestCredit: EPA
The two fires sparked nearby within an hour in Pedrógão Grande, central Portugal.
Locals here are already scarred by the memory of a terrible wildfire which killed 66 people just eight years ago.
The first erupted in the village of Pedrógão Grande, terrifyingly close to people’s homes, at around 2:30pm.
A second then burst through trees near the village of Graça at roughly 3:20pm, rousing the suspicion of police who are investigating possible foul play.
Flaming material was reported shooting out of this blaze, endangering the crews tackling it.
Five entire villages in the area were forced to evacuate as smoke cascaded into the sky.
Hundreds of firefighters battled the two blazes with from planes and from the ground.
A firefighter elsewhere in Portugal became the fourth person to be killed by the fires this summer.
Four have also lost their lives in Spain – where the blazes are finally being brought under control.
Daniel Esteves, 45, worked for the forest protection company Afocelca.
Huge blaze rips through historic manor house as firefighters tackle inferno
He was seriously injured on Tuesday night alongside four colleagues, and tragically died on Saturday.
Daniel suffered burns to 75 percent of his body and was the worst injured of the group – the rest of whom are still in hospital in Coimbra.
Portugal’s president, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, sent his condolences to Daniel’s family who “tragically lost his life after directly combating the forest fires in Sabugal municipality”.
The amount of land burnt across the Iberian peninsula has hit a total area about the size of the US state of Delaware, based on EU statistics.
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A local man civilian got involved in the fight against the flamesCredit: EPA
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A burnt-out truck which was engulfed by the flamesCredit: EPA
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Hundreds of firefighters rushed to the scenesCredit: EPA
Spain had lost a record 403,000 hectares, while Portugal lost 278,000 hectares this year, according to the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS).
Spanish authorities said the tide seemed to have turned in the fight against the fires, which are mainly raging in the country’s west and northwest.
But the head of Spain’s civil protection and emergencies service, Virginia Barcones, warned there were still 18 “treacherous” blazes alight.
The record-breaking year has been fuelled by dry conditions, heatwaves and strong winds.
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These fires are the latest in a disastrous year for Spain and PortugalCredit: EPA
Spain is tackling several major wildfires in one of its most destructive fire seasons in decades, fuelled by climate change, as the end of a severe 16-day heatwave and expected rainfall raised hopes that an end may be in sight.
Thousands of firefighters aided by soldiers and water-bombing aircraft continued on Tuesday to fight fires tearing through parched woodland that were especially severe in northwestern Spain, where the country’s weather agency AEMET reported a still “very high or extreme” fire risk — particularly in the Galicia region.
Authorities have suspended rail services and cut access to roads in the regions of Extremadura, Galicia, and Castile and Leon.
Firefighting units from Germany arrived in northern Spain on Tuesday to help fight the blazes, Spain’s Ministry of the Interior announced. More than 20 vehicles were deployed to help fight an ongoing blaze in Jarilla in the Extremadura region that borders Portugal, the ministry said.
Visiting the fires in Extremadura, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the government would declare many of the affected areas as emergency zones, which in practice means they will be eligible to receive aid for reconstruction.
Blaming the fires on the effects of climate change, he also said he would propose a plan next month to turn climate emergency policies into permanent state policies.
“We’re seeing the climate emergency accelerate and worsen significantly, particularly in the Iberian Peninsula, each year,” he said.
Opposition leaders have said his proposal is a way to divert attention from his government’s poor handling of the fires.
AEMET, which on Monday declared the end of one of the longest heatwaves in the past five decades, now expects temperatures to fall and humidity to rise. However, it said that adverse conditions would remain in southern Spain, including in part of Extremadura.
The fires in Spain have killed four people this year and burned more than 382,000 hectares (944,000 acres) or about 3,820 square kiolometres (1,475sq miles), according to the European Union’s European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS).
Many fires have been triggered by human activity. Police have detained 23 people for suspected arson and are investigating 89 more, Spain’s Civil Guard said.
The Spanish army has deployed 3,400 troops and 50 aircraft to help firefighters, while the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Slovakia have sent hundreds of firefighters, vehicles and aircraft.
Along the Iberian Peninsula in Portugal, more than 3,700 firefighters were tackling blazes, including four major ones in the north and centre.
Wildfires there have burned about 235,000 hectares or 907 square miles, according to EFFIS — nearly five times more than the 2006-2024 average for this period. Two people there have died.
“The devastation [from the wildfires] is enormous, it looks like an apocalyptic landscape,” said Al Jazeera’s Sonia Gallego, reporting from Coutada, Portugal.
“What is of immense concern to the firefighters is not just putting out the flames, which have gone out of control … but also the danger of reignition,” said Gallego.
Another challenge facing firefighters, she noted, is accessing “a source of water which is close enough where they can collect water and extinguish those flames.”
Most of Southern Europe is experiencing one of its worst wildfire seasons in two decades.
Europe has been warming twice as fast as the global average since the 1980s, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service. Scientists say that climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of heat and dryness in parts of Europe, making the region more vulnerable to wildfires.
Thousands of firefighters, backed by soldiers and water-bombing aircraft, have battled more than 20 major wildfires raging across western Spain, where officials say a record area of land has already been burned.
Spain and neighbouring Portugal have been particularly affected by forest fires spurred by heatwaves and drought, blamed on climate change, that have hit southern Europe.
Two firefighters were killed on Sunday – one in each country, both in road accidents – taking the death toll to two in Portugal and four in Spain.
Spain’s civil protection chief, Virginia Barcones, told public television TVE that 23 blazes were classified as “operational level two”, meaning they pose a direct threat to nearby communities.
The fires, now entering their second week, are concentrated in the western regions of Castile and Leon, Galicia, and Extremadura, where thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes.
More than 343,000 hectares (848,000 acres) of land – the equivalent of nearly half a million football pitches – have been destroyed this year in Spain, setting a new national record, according to the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS).
The previous record of 306,000 hectares (756,142 acres) was set in the same period three years ago.
Help from abroad
Spain is being helped with firefighting aircraft from France, Italy, Slovakia, and the Netherlands, while Portugal is receiving air support from Sweden and Morocco.
However, the size and severity of the fires and the intensity of the smoke were making “airborne action” difficult, Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles told TVE.
Across the border in Portugal, about 2,000 firefighters were deployed across the north and centre of the country on Monday, with about half of them concentrated in the town of Arganil.
About 216,000 hectares (533,747 acres) of land have been destroyed across Portugal since the start of the year.
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro said the country had endured 24 days of weather conditions of “unprecedented severity”, with high temperatures and strong winds.
“We are at war, and we must triumph in this fight,” he added.
Officials in both countries expressed hope that the weather would turn to help tackle the fires.
Spain’s meteorological agency said the heatwave, which has seen temperatures hit 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) in parts of the country, was coming to an end.
Emergency services are under strain due to the ‘worst’ fires in Portugal in years, Al Jazeera’s Sonia Gallego says.
Thousands of firefighters backed by the military are battling dozens of wildfires across Spain and Portugal as the death toll has increased to six since the outbreaks began.
Two firefighters were killed on Sunday – one in each country, both in road accidents – taking the death toll to two in Portugal and four in Spain.
On Monday, five major fires remained active in Portugal with more than 3,800 firefighters tackling them, civil protection authorities said.
“We still have firefighters who are monitoring the area here, the occasional smoke which is coming out from the land here, but of course, these are the charred remains of the flames that just completely consumed these hills,” Al Jazeera’s Sonia Gallego said, reporting from Tarouca, Portugal.
The fires in the Portuguese town are now under control, but emergency services are worried about the possibility of them reigniting, Gallego said.
Emergency services are already under “enormous strain” in what appears to be some of the “worst” fires in the area in years, she added.
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa said a firefighter died on Sunday in a traffic accident that seriously injured two colleagues.
A former mayor in the eastern town of Guarda also died on Friday while trying to fight a fire.
About 2,160sq km (835sq miles) of land has burned across Portugal since the start of the year.
Neighbouring Spain battles blazes too
In Spain, more than 3,430sq km (1,325sq miles) of land has burned this year, setting a new national record, according to the European Forest Fire Information System.
The head of Spain’s Civil Protection and Emergencies agency, Virginia Barcones, told broadcaster TVE on Monday that there were 23 “active fires” that pose a serious and direct threat to people.
The fires, now in their second week, were concentrated in the northwestern regions of Galicia, Castile and Leon, and Extremadura.
In Ourense province of Galicia, firefighters battled to put out fires as locals in just shorts and T-shirts used water from hoses and buckets to try to stop the spread.
Officials in Castile and Leon said a firefighter died on Sunday night when the water truck he was driving flipped over on a steep forest road and down a slope.
Two other volunteer firefighters have died in Castile and Leon while a Romanian employee of a riding school north of Madrid lost his life trying to protect horses from a fire.
Spain has deployed a further 500 soldiers from the military emergency unit to support firefighting operations as it battles 20 major wildfires across the country during a heatwave that began last week.
“There are still some challenging days ahead, and unfortunately, the weather is not on our side,” Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said at a news conference on Sunday in Ourense, one of the most affected areas, in northwestern Spain.
He announced an increase in military reinforcements, bringing the total number of soldiers deployed across Spain to 1,900.
Firefighters are tackling 12 major wildfires in the northwestern region of Galicia alone, all of them near the city of Ourense, the head of the Galician regional government Alfonso Rueda also said during the news conference.
“Homes are still under threat, so we have lockdowns in place and are carrying out evacuations,” Rueda said.
The announcements came as authorities awaited the arrival of promised aircraft reinforcements from other European countries.
National rail operator Renfe said it suspended Madrid-Galicia high-speed train services scheduled for Sunday due to the fires.
Galician authorities advised people to wear face masks and limit their time spent outdoors to avoid inhaling smoke and ash.
Southern Europe is experiencing one of its worst wildfire seasons in two decades with Spain among the hardest-hit countries.
In the past week alone, fires there have killed three people and burned more than 1,150sq km (445sq miles) while neighbouring Portugal also battles widespread blazes.
Temperatures are expected to reach up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) in some areas on Sunday, Spain’s national weather agency, AEMET, said.
Virginia Barcones, director general of emergency services, told Spanish public TV that temperatures were expected to drop from Tuesday, but for now, the weather conditions were “very adverse”.
EU help on its way
“The fireplanes come in from all sides, but they don’t come here,” Basilio Rodriguez, a resident, told the Reuters news agency on Saturday.
Spain was expecting the arrival of two Dutch water-dumping planes that were to join aircraft from France and Italy already helping Spanish authorities under a European cooperation agreement.
Firefighters from other countries are also expected to arrive in the region in the coming days, Barcones told public broadcaster RTVE.
Ministry of Interior data show 27 people have been arrested and 92 were under investigation for suspected arson since June.
In neighbouring Portugal, wildfires have burned about 1,550sq km (600sq miles) of vegetation so far this year, according to provisional data from the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests – three times the average for this period from 2006 to 2024. About half of that area burned just in the past three days.
Thousands of firefighters were battling eight large blazes in central and northern Portugal, the largest of them near Piodao, a scenic, mountainous area popular with tourists.
Another blaze in Trancoso, farther north, has now been raging for eight days. A smaller fire just east of there killed a local resident on Friday – the first death this season.
Portugal is set for cooler weather in the coming days. A national state of alert due to wildfires was imposed on August 2 and was due to end on Sunday, a day before two Swedish firefighting planes were to arrive.
As in Spain, Portugal’s resources have been stretched. On Sunday, more than 4,000 firefighters and 1,300 vehicles were deployed as well as 17 aircraft, the Civil Protection Agency said.
Wildfires also burning in Turkiye
Greece, Bulgaria, Montenegro and Albania have also requested help from the European Union’s firefighting force in recent days to deal with forest fires. The force has already been activated as many times this year as during all of last year’s summer fire season.
In Turkiye, where recent wildfires have killed 19 people, parts of the historic region that includes memorials to World War I’s Gallipoli campaign were evacuated on Sunday as blazes threatened homes in the country’s northwest.
Six villages were evacuated as a precautionary measure, the governor of Canakkale province, Omer Toraman, said.
About 1,300 firefighting personnel backed by 30 aircraft were battling the blazes, according to the General Directorate of Forestry.
Turkiye has been struck by hundreds of fires since late June, fuelled by record-breaking temperatures, dry conditions and strong winds.
Europe has been warming twice as fast as the global average since the 1980s, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service. Scientists said climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of heat and dryness in parts of Europe, making the region more vulnerable to wildfires.
The aviator lost consciousness while in the cockpit of the budget airline’s service from Barcelona to Porto, a source from the National Institute of Medical Emergencies said
The flight took off on Sunday morning(Image: NurPhoto/PA Images)
A pilot fainted while flying a Ryanair plane on Sunday, according to reports.
The aviator lost consciousness while in the cockpit of the budget airline’s service from Barcelona to Porto, a source from the National Institute of Medical Emergencies told Portugal Resident. At 8:19 a.m. on Sunday, August 10, the pilot suffered “a rapidly recovering syncope” and “apparently recovered during the flight,” the publication reported.
The plane was safely landed(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
An ambulance from the Moreira da Maia Fire Department and a medical vehicle, emergency vehicle (VMER) from the Pedro Hispano Hospital went to Sá Carneiro Airport to meet the plane. “The pilot received assistance on the spot, but refused to go to the hospital and stayed at the airport,” the National Institute of Medical Emergencies said, according to Portugal Resident.
Despite the medical incident, flight data show that the only Ryanair flight that arrived this Sunday morning at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport from Barcelona (Spain) was flight FR 4587, which arrived at 8:35 a.m. at Terminal 1, as it had been scheduled to do.
The Mirror put the claims to Ryanair’s press office. A spokesperson for the airline said: “Ryanair has procedures and training in place to deal with situations where a pilot becomes unwell in flight. This flight from Barcelona to Porto (10 Aug), landed safely at Porto Airport.”
Holidaymakers going to Spain this month are facing a fresh blow as new strikes have been announced affecting major airports and airlines across parts of the country. The UGT union previously stated there will be a series of strikes affecting Ryanair’s baggage handling department.
Menzies services a number of major airlines including British Airways, easyJet, Wizz Air, American Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Emirates and Norwegian. The UGT union said the strike by ground staff of the Menzies group will affect five Spanish airports, including Barcelona-El Prat, Alicante, Palma, Malaga and Tenerife South, on August 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31.
Southern Europe is battling deadly wildfires and extreme heat this week, with record temperatures and dry conditions forcing evacuations across France, Spain and Portugal.
An enormous wildfire in southern France’s Aude region has killed one person, injured nine others, marking the country’s largest wildfire this season.
The blaze, which erupted on Tuesday, has already scorched at least 15,000 hectares (37,000 acres) – an area larger than the city of Paris – in less than 24 hours. Fires have consumed forests, ravaged villages and damaged or destroyed at least 25 homes, with emergency officials warning that the blaze remains out of control.
“All of the nation’s resources are mobilised,” President Emmanuel Macron said in a post on X, urging people to act with “the utmost caution”.
More than 1,800 firefighters have been sent to battle the flames, backed by 600 vehicles and water-dropping aircraft.
“We have at our disposal in the Aude department the maximum number of personnel and resources that we can have in the south of France in its entirety,” said Remi Recio, deputy prefect of Narbonne.
An elderly woman who refused to evacuate was killed, while another person is missing. Two civilians were injured, including one in critical condition with burns, and seven firefighters suffered smoke inhalation.
Camping grounds and at least one village were partially evacuated, and roads were closed. “I left everything behind me,” said David Cerdan, 51, who fled the village of Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse. “I’m putting it into perspective. I only have material damage.”
Officials say the fire has already consumed as much land as all French wildfires in 2024 combined – more than double that of 2023. “The fire is advancing in an area where all the conditions are ripe for it to progress,” said fire official Roesch. “This fire will keep us busy for several days. It’s a long-term operation.”
An investigation into the cause is under way. France’s environment ministry said drought conditions and dry vegetation contributed to the spread, with water restrictions already in place in the Aude region.
“The risk of fire is greatest in the Mediterranean,” said climate and agriculture analyst Serge Zaka. “In France, it is the hottest and driest area. But with climate change, these fire risks are expected to become more significant during the summer.”
Last month, a blaze near Marseille injured about 300 people. Scientists warn that climate change is driving more intense heat and dryness across Europe, the world’s fastest-warming continent.
Spain and Portugal face heat-driven blazes
In Spain, a prolonged heatwave since Sunday – with temperatures reaching 43C (109F) – has helped fan multiple wildfires across the country.
The resort town of Tarifa in Andalusia saw more than 1,500 people and 5,000 vehicles evacuated after a fire broke out near La Pena, a wooded area close to the beach. The fire, believed to have started in a camper van, was rapidly spread by strong winds.
“What concerns us most right now is the wind, whether it shifts between the west and east,” said Antonio Sanz, Andalusia’s interior minister.
Fire crews worked through the night to keep flames away from hotels and tourist accommodation, but the blaze remains active, and residents have not been allowed to return.
Elsewhere, a fire near Ponteceso in the Galicia region forced the evacuation of Corme Aldea village. In Cadiz, a blaze that erupted Tuesday led to mass evacuations, according to state broadcaster RTVE.
The Spanish meteorological agency AEMET has issued orange alerts across several regions through Friday. Civil protection authorities warn of “high” or “extreme” fire risk in much of the country.
Spain’s Ministry of Health reported 1,060 excess deaths linked to extreme heat in July, a 57 percent increase over the same month last year, based on data from the national mortality monitoring system. While the data does not confirm direct causation, it is widely used to estimate heat-related deaths.
In neighbouring Portugal, wildfires have already burned more than 42,000 hectares (104,000 acres) in 2025 – the largest area since 2022 and eight times more than this time last year. More than half of that land was scorched in just the past two weeks.
Firefighters managed to bring a large blaze under control near Vila Real in the north on Wednesday, but others remain active. A fire in the city of Amarante continued to burn, while another in A Coruna reached emergency level 2 due to its proximity to populated areas.
Lisbon declared a state of alert until August 7, with more than 100 municipalities on maximum fire risk amid soaring temperatures.
Scientists say Southern Europe is on the front line of climate breakdown. Rising global temperatures are creating the conditions for longer and more destructive fire seasons.
Montenegro might not be as famous as its neighbours, but its stunning coastline, clear waters and historic towns have earned it plenty of praise from British holidaymakers
There’s a hidden European gem which is cheaper than its European counterparts (Image: Getty)
Greece, Spain, and Portugal are the go-to spots for many holidaymakers, famed for their stunning landscapes and rich offerings. However, these destinations can become tourist traps in the peak of summer, leaving those in search of tranquillity a bit miffed.
But fear not, there’s a hidden gem that some seasoned travellers argue might just outshine them all. Tucked away on the Adriatic Sea and bordered by Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Albania, Montenegro is a treasure trove yet to be overrun by mass tourism.
Its breathtaking coastline, crystal-clear waters, and time-capsule towns have garnered accolades from tourists who reckon it rivals its more illustrious neighbours, minus the throngs of visitors.
The Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site reminiscent of a fjord, is a jewel in Montenegro’s crown.
Nestled among mountains, this bay boasts historical gems like Kotor and Perast, enchanting visitors with their charm, reports the Express.
Montenegro is less crowded than Croatia or Spain(Image: Getty)
TripAdvisor reviews are positive with tales of Montenegro’s allure, with many finding it a welcome respite from the bustling Greek isles or the crowded Spanish beaches.
One traveller said: “Montenegro stole my heart, even more than Greece!” praising the sublime seafood and jaw-dropping vistas.
“Greece was great, but Kotor Bay’s cliffs and medieval walls blew me away. Wandering through Kotor Old Town, I loved how peaceful Montenegro felt, far less tourist chaos than Athens or Santorini.”
Another holidaymaker who had recently explored Portugal’s Algarve posted: “Last summer, I toured Portugal’s Algarve coast. Lovely beaches, bustling towns, but Montenegro left a far bigger mark.
“Its Adriatic coastline is stunning, yet totally uncrowded compared to Portugal in summertime. Jaz and Mogren beaches felt like private retreats.”
A third globe-trotter declared that Montenegro surpassed even Spain in their estimation, explaining: “I’ve been to Spain’s Costa del Sol several times (think sun, sea, sangria), but Montenegro feels more authentic and affordable.
The Bay of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Montenegro(Image: Getty)
“Beach days in Budva and Tivat cost a fraction of Spanish resorts, yet the scenery is just as spectacular.”
The seaside resort of Budva draws countless visitors to Montenegro, renowned for its sandy shores, vibrant nightlife, and historic Old Town quarter.
Venture further into the interior, and destinations such as Durmitor National Park present alpine vistas, walking routes, and thrilling white-water rafting adventures along the Tara River Canyon.
One explorer shared: “In just a few hours, I went from pebbled beaches on the Budva Riviera to the snow-capped peaks of Durmitor National Park.”
Many travellers highlight Montenegro’s wallet-friendly appeal compared to other European holiday favourites.
One holidaymaker said: “Beach days in Budva and Tivat cost a fraction of Spanish resorts, yet the scenery is just as spectacular.”
Montenegro’s compact dimensions make it particularly attractive for tourists, as the nation is petite and incredibly straightforward to navigate. Visitors have reported that you can enjoy a morning hike, an afternoon at the beach, and an evening meal by the water.
It’s also often cited as one of the rare spots in Europe where you can savour both mountainous landscapes and coastal views within the same day.
Twisting along roads flanked by cherry trees, granite boulders, vines and wildflower-flecked pastures, I wind down the windows and breathe in the pure air of Portugal’s remote, historic Beira Interior region. The motor is silent, the playlist is birdsong and occasional bleating sheep; all is serene. “This is easier,” I say to myself with a smile, recalling my previous attempt to visit the Aldeias Históricas – a dozen historic hamlets bound by a 1995 conservation project – using woeful public transport. Revisiting this unspoilt pocket of Portugal, 155 miles (250km) north-east of Lisbon, near the border with Spain, is going to be effortless in an EV. And, best of all, the transport doesn’t cost me a penny.
An hour before, I arrived in Castelo Novo, a four-hour train ride from the capital, and currently the sole hub of the Aldeias Históricas’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Scheme. It was launched in 2022 to address local transport issues by providing five free-to-hire electric vehicles, alongside other community-supporting projects. It sounded too good to be true, but I booked the maximum three-day rental – enough time to see at least nine of the villages. I was informed that if I arrived by train, someone would meet me at the station.
Sure enough, Duarte Rodrigues welcomes me like an old friend. “The project’s main focus is tourism to the historic villages, but some of the cars are used for the community, to take elderly people to the market or distribute meals,” he says on the gorgeous drive to the medieval hamlet of Castelo Novo, 650 metres up the slopes of the Serra da Gardunha. Take-up was nearly equal between tourists and residents, he adds.
A few minutes later, outside the romanesque town hall, Duarte hands me the keys to my Megane E-Tech with a wave. It’s worth staying for a night at Pedra Nova, a gorgeously renovated boutique B&B, but it needs to be booked well in advance and I am keen to make the most of my time in the EV. Having decided to skip popular Piódão and Monsanto – now a House of the Dragon jet-setting destination – my first stop is Belmonte. Like all 12 aldeias, this hazy hilltop town played a pivotal role in Portugal’s identity. A Brazilian flag flutters behind a statue of local legend Pedro Álvares Cabral, the first European to “discover” Brazil. I stroll through the old Jewish Quarter’s single-storey granite houses to Bet Eliahu synagogue, built 500 years after King Manuel I’s 1496 decree expelling Jews from the kingdom.
Centum Cellas, a Roman villa near Belmonte. Photograph: Luis Fonseca/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Continuing to 12th-century Linhares da Beira, I wander the leafy slopes of the Serra da Estrela – mainland Portugal’s highest range. Similar to much-loved Monsanto, the hamlet lies between and atop giant granite boulders. From the largest rocky outcrop, where the castle’s crenellated walls rise, the Mondego valley’s panorama is endless. Other than an airborne paraglider and a man hawking hand-carved magnets in the car park, there’s not a soul in sight.
I walk a stretch of slabbed Roman road that once linked Mérida in Spain to Braga, north of Porto, and remember why I adore these villages. History is bite-size, hushed and unhurried, the antithesis of my home in the Algarve. After a brief drive, I park up and plug in outside the medieval defences of the most populated aldeia.
Founded in the ninth century, handsome Trancoso hides behind hefty, turret-topped walls that have witnessed royal nuptials and numerous skirmishes. Today, walking beneath weathered porticos and streets lined with hydrangeas, it feels like the calmest place in the world. As does Solar Sampaio e Melo, a palatial 17th-century guesthouse – repurchased by a descendant of the original owners in 2011 – with an honesty bar and a pool shaded by turrets.
Following a late breakfast of sardinhas doces, Troncoso’s sardine-shaped, almond-stuffed sweets, I make for Marialva. The satnav states 30 minutes, but with back-road detours to gawp at giant granite mounds around Moreira de Rei, I reach the massif-mounted castle well after lunch. Occupied by the Aravos, a Lusitanian tribe, then the Romans and Moors, this was a crucial site for the advance of the Christian Reconquista.
An old chap in a checkered shirt sits hammering almonds from their shells outside his home. I buy a bulging bag for €7 and gobble a handful inside the semi-ruined citadel, where Bonelli’s eagles soar and cacti reclaim the stone. The flavour transports me to my Algarvian childhood holidays, when I’d hide from the sun (and my parents) under almond trees. For a second, it feels like Portugal hasn’t changed in 30 years. Perhaps here, far from the coast, little has.
The castle at Marialva. Photograph: Vitor Ribeiro/Alamy
The journey to Castelo Rodrigo is filled with awe, particularly around the craggy valley sliced by the Côa river. Just upstream is a unique collection of rock art etchings from three eras – prehistory, protohistory and history – and Faia Brava, Portugal’s first private nature reserve, co-founded by biologist Ana Berliner, her husband and others. In 2004, the couple renovated Casa da Cisterna into a boutique guesthouse, and on its wisteria-draped terrace, Ana welcomes me with sugared almonds and fresh juice. I enquire about Faia Brava (Ana guides guests on excursions to the reserve and the prehistoric rock art) and whether they’re concerned about tourism growing.
“These small villages benefit a lot [from tourism] because there aren’t many people living here or many opportunities, so people are moving to the big cities,” she tells me. “If you retain your people, and your young people spend those days living here, it’s very good.”
As I poke around the castle ruins, I mull over how the Portuguese writer José Saramago described Castelo Rodrigo in Journey to Portugal (1981): “desolation, infinite sadness” and “abandoned by those who once lived here”. I’m reassured that Ana is right. Lisbon’s tourism boom has created Europe’s least affordable city for locals. Yet, in these hinterlands, the right tourism approach could help preserve local customs.
Unlike most of the aldeias, Castelo Rodrigo was founded by the Kingdom of León. It became Portuguese when the 1297 treaty of Alcanizes defined one of Europe’s oldest frontiers. Reminders of Spain linger, such as the Ávila-style semicircular turrets and ruined Cristóvão de Moura palace, constructed under the Habsburg Spanish kings. Portuguese locals later torched it.
With no charging station in Castelo Rodrigo (work is under way to expand the project to other villages, including the installation of chargers and the opening of new bases with additional cars in 2026), I drive to Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, the modern town below. At Taverna da Matilde flaming chouriço scents the dining room, and the pork loin – bisaro, an indigenous part-pig, part‑boar – is perfect. I sleep like a prince at Casa da Cisterna.
Breakfast is a casual, communal affair of buttery Seia mountain cheese and pão com chouriço, followed by a quick stop at Castelo Rodrigo’s wine cooperative to collect a case of robust Touriga Nacional (tours and tastings €18pp). In Almeida, a star-shaped military town, I roam the grassy ramparts before continuing south. Swallows soon replace eagles, and granite fades into gentle farmland.
Approaching Castelo Mendo. Photograph: Daniel James Clarke
I breathe in the silence, standing by Castelo Mendo’s twin-turreted gate. It feels like the world has stopped. I tiptoe across the ruined castle keep and am transfixed by the endless panorama of olive groves, cherry trees and occasional shepherd’s huts.
In search of coffee, I step into a dimly lit stone room below a sign that reads D Sancho. Inside is an old-world retail marvel. Photos of popes, boxes of wine, retired horseshoes, mounds of old coins and “mystery boxes” that I’m tempted to spend a tenner on. A hunched woman with a smile gifts me a shot of ginjinha, the local cherry liquor, and signals me to sit with her on the bench outside. We don’t speak, yet I somehow feel a connection to her land. I buy a bottle in the hope of taking that feeling home.
My final stop, Sortelha, comes with high expectations – Saramago promised a perfectly preserved medieval town. Hulking walls cradle a 16th-century cluster of stone houses dominated by a castle that crowns an outcrop. Almost on cue, fog and showers shroud it all in mystery. I retreat to O Foral, where plates of bacalhau (salted cod) are bathed in pistachio-hued local olive oil.
Parking back in Castelo Novo with a panic-inducing 7% charge showing on the dash, I am grateful to return the keys, and use the time before my lift to the station to survey the Knights Templar’s former domain from the 12th-century castle.
Stopping outside the red door where Saramago reportedly once stayed, I ponder how he would describe these villages 44 years later. Hopefully, he’d recount that, for the traveller, timeless magic remains, but those returning and reviving have vanquished any melancholy.
Booking a summer getaway is a major highlight for many people each year but one popular tourist hotspot has undergone a major change that’s got many people vowing to never return
The popular holiday destination has changed in recent times, with many tourists vowing they’ll never go back to the sun-soaked hotspot (stock image)(Image: FHM/Getty Images)
Tourists have vowed to “never again” visit a popular holiday hotspot after it underwent some unwanted changes this year. Jetting off to a sunnier climate is a highlight of many people’s summers, with guaranteed sunshine, blue skies and the soothing sounds of the ocean a top priority.
Some European countries have established themselves as firm favourites for British tourists, and regularly top the travel wish list for people of all ages. Whether it’s Greece, Spain, France, Italy or Portugal, the continent has an abundance of varied, enticing options to suit all budgets and desires. For some holidaymakers, the destination of choice centres around the availability of bars and clubs, with many keen to take advantage of a thriving nightlife.
This seems to be the case for Albufeira, a popular coastal city based in the southern Algarve region of Portugal. It’s famous for its nightlife, with an abundance of accommodation and activities to indulge in.
Recently, however, its iconic strip has drawn some criticism due to how busy it’s become – one of the downsides to the city’s enduring popularity.
One tourist, who works as a DJ in Albufeira, recently shared a video of the packed strip on TikTok and it’s put many people off from ever returning to the city.
The 11-second clip shows people packed shoulder to shoulder outside the famous bars and nightclubs. Over the top of the footage, the DJ penned the words: “‘iS AlbUFeIrA eVEn BuSy?’ Have you seen the strip.”
The mix of capital letters with lowercase letters is typically used on social media to convey a mocking tone.
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In the caption, he simply added: “How busy is too busy?”
The video racked up more than 754K views, with fellow TikTok users keen to share their thoughts. Lots of people pointed out it seems to be much busier this year than it was last year.
One person said: “Oh my that’s some difference from last July,” while another agreed: “Was nowhere near this last year”.
A third shared: “I was there on Saturday and never again!” A fourth said: “Canny be enjoyable that”.
Someone else asked: “is this supposed to make you want to go?”
Another TikTok user said: “Disgusting I can smell the sweat through the screen,” and another simply said: “No thanks.”
However, not everyone had this perspective or experience. One person shared: “It was the perfect amount of busy last week.”
And another wasn’t put off at all: “Ye looks boss that.”
For those keen to avoid the intense crowds, one TikTok user advised: “Best time for Albufeira is mid May to end of May if [you] don’t want to deal with this.”
To which the original poster replied: “Spot on.”
Before it became a major holiday destination, Albufeira used to be a sleepy fishing village. Its golden, sandy beaches are varied with some spots busy and bustling, and others offering secluded coves near dramatic cliffs.
Despite being renowned for its busy nightlife strip, it’s also an ideal destination for families and couples looking for a scenic getaway.
Óbidos in central Portugal may not be on the radar for many Brits, but it’s a hidden gem that boasts stunning landscapes, historic sights, cheap beer and delicious food.
Town branded ‘Santorini of Portugal’ has £2 beer and ‘postcard-perfect’ streets(Image: sbk_20d pictures via Getty Images)
There’s a breathtaking hidden treasure nestled in central Portugal that blends scenic beauty with a genuine, relaxed vibe that’s increasingly rare in major tourist destinations during peak season.
This charming pocket of the country captivates visitors with its winding cobblestone lanes, lime-washed homes adorned with blue and yellow accents, and cascading bougainvillaea tumbling from terraces. Whilst these characteristics are common across southern Europe, they typically come accompanied by summer hordes and sky-high prices.
The beauty lies in how it retains its original character whilst offering a serene alternative to Portugal’s busier metropolises such as Lisbon or Coimbra, reports the Express.
TikTok creator Mari Andreu has likened Óbidos’ splendour to that of Santorini in Greece, positioning it as a more tranquil escape compared to the neighbouring party hub of Mykonos with its beach clubs and buzzing nightlife.
Óbidos boasts a magnificent setting dominated by an impeccably preserved medieval castle, now transformed into a pousada, or heritage hotel, offering sweeping views that are “postcard-perfect,” according to Dimitris Floros, CCO at Welcome Pickups.
Dimitris highlighted the allure of this delightful town as a stopover spot, explaining: “While compact, [the town] is packed with character, making it ideal for a half-day stop or overnight stay.”
For budget-conscious travellers, it’s probably a delightful discovery that a pint of beer costs just £2 here, particularly when compared to Lisbon’s £3 average.
King Afonso II presented Óbidos to Queen Urraca in 1210(Image: Alexander Spatari via Getty Images)
Yet there’s far more to this town than simply delicious cuisine and affordable pints. It boasts an extensive heritage stretching back to the pre-Roman era, when Celtic settlers established themselves before it became a Roman outpost. The Moors later fortified it during the 8th century.
The Moors were driven out of Óbidos in 1148 by Portugal’s first monarch, Afonso I, and the town served a crucial defensive function for the newly established Portuguese realm.
In 1210, King Afonso II presented Óbidos to his spouse, Queen Urraca. This custom of bestowing the town upon Portugal’s queens persisted for generations, leading to its moniker “Town of the Queens.”
The settlement prospered under King Manuel I’s rule during the 16th century, evident in its magnificent architectural legacy, featuring Manueline doorways and the remarkable aqueduct constructed to provide the town with water.
The anti-tourism movement is quickly gathering pace across Europe with protest groups causing widespread disruption today – and threatening there is more chaos to come
Tourists across Europe had to endure mass protests last month(Image: Getty Images)
Just when Brits thought it was safe to get back in the sunshine – an anti-tourism group is threatening more summer protests.
The Southern European Network Against Touristification (SET) group, already revelling in the widespread disruptions caused on a Europe-wide day of action on June 15, is threatening there is more disruption to come. In a strong statement they said: “Common sense is changing.
“The myth of tourism as economic salvation is over. Touristification is no longer a problem perceived by a few. It has become a widespread concern across generations, social classes, cities and regions. And this is just the beginning.
“Given the situations we are witnessing everywhere, there is no doubt that more actions and mobilizations will take place here and there this summer, much like there might be more anti-touristification actions on 27th September for World Tourism Day. The struggle against touristification is growing, expanding, and is being organized. Because our lives are worth more than their profits.”
Protesters march during an anti-tourism protest on June 15, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain(Image: Getty Images)
Tourists across Europe had to endure mass protests last month when thousands of people in Spain, Portugal and Italy took to the streets in at least a dozen tourist hotspots to protest against “touristification”.
It was the most widespread joint action to date against what they see as the steady reshaping of their cities to meet the needs of tourists rather than people who live and work there. Tourists enjoying meals in places like Palma and Barcelona were met with baying mobs and some were even sprayed with water pistols.
In Spain, there were instances of protestors holding signs saying “tourists go home”. Earlier this year The Mirror spoke to one of the ringleaders of the massive tourist protests who spoke to us on condition of anonymity.
He said: “The general mood is one of growing frustration, indignation, and despair. People feel they are being expelled from their own land and that their fundamental rights are not being protected. People have had enough.”
Demonstrators make their voices heard in the Portuguese capital last month.(Image: Getty Images)
The protestors accuse foreigners of inflating property prices and driving up the cost of living for locals who have reached breaking point. Tensions have been building since the protest movement formed last summer and earlier this year a shocking sign threatening to ‘kill a tourist’ appeared in Tenerife.
Footage of the graffiti being painted on the was posted online by a group called Islas de Resistencia, which describes itself as “a project to recover the memory of social movements in the Canary Islands.” Spanish party isle Ibiza has also seen signs of hostility when access to a popular viewing point was blocked with boulders.
Activists have also reportedly torched and smashed hire cars in Tenerife. Shocking video footage posted online appeared to show vandals pouring flammable liquid on the ground, then setting fire to around 20 rental vehicles in the southern Tenerife resort of Costa Adeje.
And the protests have now spread to Portugal and Italy who both have huge influxes of tourists each summer. The bulk of last month’s protests on June 15 were in Spain, where tourist arrivals surged last year to record levels.
But cities in Italy like Venice and Lisbon in Portugal also took part. The statement from SET added: “The streets of Barcelona, Cantabria, Cordoba, Donostia-San Sebastian, Ibiza, Granada, Genoa, Lisbon, Menorca, Naples, Palma, and Venice were filled with large demonstrations, symbolic actions, statements, and debates.
“Simultaneous and coordinated mobilizations have allowed us not only to join, but also to multiply our voices in a powerful chorus of struggle. And we are not alone. Growing numbers of people understand that this tourism model does not bring progress, but causes evictions, precariousness, and devastation.”
Although it is not all doom and gloom for Brits looking to soak up some sun as some industry experts claim one resort’s loss is another’s gain. Miguel Perez-Marsa, president of Majorca’s ABONE nightclub and entertainment association, said business is booming in the German party resort of Playa de Palma instead.
He also said the biggest winner of the drop in British revellers picking Magaluf for their holidays following the party resort “clean-up”. And he has claimed young Brits are turning their backs on Magaluf – where holidaymakers from other European countries were once a rare sight in the summer season – because they have been “demonised.”
Mr Perez-Marsa said the gap was being filled by French and Italian tourists who tend to drink less than UK party animals and don’t spend as much going out at night. And claiming British youngsters who have traditionally packed out the noisy nightspots of Magaluf’s brash Punta Ballena party strip had been “steam-rollered”, he went on to put Benidorm at the top of the list of other “more welcoming” resorts they were flocking to instead.
Mr Perez-Marsa also told Diario de Mallorca more British families were visiting Magaluf, but complained they were opting for all-inclusive deals that meant they spent less outside their hotels. British tourists make up the vast bulk of Benidorm’s foreign holidaymakers.
Vaccines are often essential when travelling abroad
Anyone holidaying in Europe this year is being urged to get a vaccine to prevent falling ill on holiday. The advice comes for holidaymakers travelling to destinations including France, Spain, Greece, Portugal, Turkey and Italy.
Experts say even if you have had a jab earlier this year, it may no longer be effective and you should look into getting another one. Jack Janetzki, l ecturer in pharmacy and pharmacology at the University of South Australia, said anyone travelling in the northern hemisphere should consider getting a flu jab.
That could include holidays outside Europe – in places such as North Africa, the USA and the Far East. Jack said: “I f you had your flu shot in April or May, it may no longer offer enough protection by the time you travel in July or later. Getting a second shot will provide you with optimal protection against the flu while travelling to the northern hemisphere.”
Without the vaccine, you could fall ill on holiday
He particularly recommends a jab if you are looking at travel as we head into peak flu season – which will start around the time of half term in October, adding: ” Ideally, get your second shot at least two weeks before your departure, so your body has time to build up protection.”
The NHS flu jab system only operates in the UK during flu season – so from the autumn. Your GP should be able to advise how to get a jab any time of the year if you think you need one.
A flu jab could be essential for some people in the UK looking to travel to Australia or elsewhere in the southern hemisphere now – as it is peak flu season on the other side of the world.
Even if you have had a jab, you may need another
There are some trips where a flu vaccine could be even more essential, Jack said:
Cruises are a prime setting for flu outbreaks. There are hundreds or thousands of people sharing confined spaces, such as restaurants and entertainment facilities, for days or weeks at a time. This creates the perfect environment for the flu virus to spread.
Group tours and large events are also high risk. Bus tours, music festivals and cultural events bring together large crowds, often in indoor spaces or via shared transport. This increases your chance of exposure and catching the virus.
Pilgrimages and religious gatherings such as Hajj, Lunar New Year or Ramadan are also high risk, especially for older travellers or those with health conditions. These events can attract millions of international visitors, often in crowded, shared accommodation, where flu and other respiratory viruses can spread rapidly.
People who are over 65 years of age , have medical conditions, such as severe asthma or diabetes, or are on medications that decrease their immune function, are more likely to become severely ill if they catch the flu. So, if you’re travelling during the northern hemisphere’s flu season, a second shot should be strongly considered.
Jack said: “The flu is more than just a sniffle. It can lead to serious illness, cancelled plans and perhaps a hospital stay in a foreign country. Even if you don’t get sick, you could pass the virus to others more vulnerable than yourself. So before you finish your pre-travel checklist, make sure your flu shots are up to date.
“Not getting the shot could be the difference between sipping Aperol spritz on the Amalfi Coast or spending your trip in bed with a fever.”
Brits heading to the likes of Spain, Egypt and Portugal for their summer holidays could find they’re paying pay hundreds of pounds more this year
16:39, 10 Jul 2025Updated 16:39, 10 Jul 2025
Millions of Brits are gearing-up for their week (or two) in the sun(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Families have seen some holiday prices to top hotspots rocket by nearly quarter this summer, research has revealed.
The jump means travellers looking forward to their break abroad risk having to shell out hundreds of pounds more than last year.
Analysis by the website TravelSupermarket for the BBC revealed big price rises in a host of destinations popular with Brits. The data compared all-inclusive seven-night family breaks departing this August with a year ago.
Prices to Cyprus have leapt 23%, from an average £950 per person to £1,166. The cost of a week away to Egypt has soared by a fifth – almost £200 each – from £980 to £1,176. Jetting to top getaway Spain has risen by 9%, or from £835 to £913 And a typical week away to Portugal will cost £972 per person this summer, against £936 last year.
Taking a break in Cyprus will cost an average £215 per person more than last summer(Image: Getty)
For those looking further afield, the analysis found the United Arab Emirates has seen the steepest price rise overall. A week away now costs an average £1,525 per person, up 26% – or £300 – from £1,210 per person in 2024.
Chris Webber, head of deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “Like most things, family summer holidays have become more expensive over the past 12 months — and our data backs that up. We’ve seen price rises of between 4% and 26% across popular destinations like Spain, Greece, Turkey, the UAE and Portugal. These increases are likely tied to rising fuel prices driving up flight costs, along with hotel expenses rising due to energy costs – which in turn pushes up food and drink costs for all-inclusive packages.”
It is not all bad, with some destinations actually cheaper this year. For instance, a week in Italy will cost an average £1,128 per person this summer, or £137 less than a year ago. Tunisia is also around £30 better value, at an average £763.
Prices to Dubai in the UAE have surged by more than a quarter since summer 2024(Image: Getty Images)
And while accommodation and flights may have risen, other holiday costs have come down.
Research published last month by the Post Office found Brits planning foreign holidays will be quids in thanks to the pound’s strength. Sterling has shot up against a host of currencies – in some cases, by a lot. For instance, the pound’s 30% rise against the Turkish lira in the past year means holidaymakers jetting there will have £116 more to spend for every £500.
In many cases, car rental prices have also fallen. A study by iCarhireinsurance.com last month revealed that the average cost of a week’s car hire this summer is £369, 43% lower than the 2022 high of £652, but still 19% more than in 2019 (£310).
American mum-of-three, Erin Monroe, recently travelled to Portugal for the first time ever, and was quick to notice the different way children behave in the European country compared to in the US
16:48, 09 Jul 2025Updated 16:49, 09 Jul 2025
An American woman was shocked when she realised a big difference between kids in the US and in Portugal (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
Exploring new corners of the globe is a fantastic opportunity to gain insights into diverse cultures and lifestyles. However, an American mum was taken aback by the contrasting attitudes towards children during her recent trip to Portugal.
Erin Monroe and her husband embarked on a journey from JFK airport in New York for a child-free holiday. This marked Erin’s first ever international travel experience, and she shared her anticipation and nerves with her 249k TikTok followers ahead of their Portuguese getaway. Once settled in the European country, Erin quickly noticed a significant cultural difference, which was that children’s behaviour varied greatly between Portugal and the US.
“I’m gonna be that guy right now, but my husband and I are in Portugal right now. And I’ve never been to Europe in my life, so this is a new experience for me,” Erin said at the start of her video, which has since amassed over 1.1 million views.
She continued to share that she is a mother of three children aged 12, 10, and six, who remained in the US while she and her husband enjoyed their holiday. However, she expressed her regret at not bringing them along after learning about the child-friendly culture in the country.
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“And the culture around kids is so different here than it is in the States. Like the kids are just everywhere, they’re just a part of everything,” Erin said.
She went on to describe how she and her husband had enjoyed their dinner at an upmarket restaurant in Cascais, Portugal, the previous evening. Despite the sophisticated setting and atmosphere, she was pleasantly surprised to discover that children had spontaneously begun a football match in an open space by the restaurant.
“And there were just kids playing soccer at this little open area next to the restaurant. And I loved it,” Erin said. “They were just playing soccer with each other and then the other interesting thing, and this has happened several times here, there are so many different languages spoken here.”
She then claimed that amongst the eight youngsters kicking a ball about, she could distinguish at least four different languages being spoken.
“There was one older kid who was actively translating for the other kids who didn’t speak the same language. And it’s so interesting to me. Like, the language barrier isn’t really a barrier, especially for kids. Like, they don’t care, they’ll just play together,” she told her viewers.
Erin carried on with her observations, noting: “And the adults, are the parents were like watching, but like drinking their wine and eating their bread and like hanging out.
“I love it here. Are you kidding? I need to bring my kids here right this second,” she exclaimed.
The video’s comment section quickly filled with people sharing their experiences of Portuguese culture, especially regarding children.
One commenter shared: “I still remember all the random friendships that I made when we were out with my parents, kids that we were instant bff for those three hours that we were at dinner and then we never saw each other ever again.”
Another person questioned: “This is how kids learn to socialise. How do they learn it in the States?”
Meanwhile, a third individual expressed their appreciation for French customs, adding: “I love in France seeing teenagers go out to a civilised dinner together.”
The Liverpool player is believed to have been driving at high speed when he and his brother Andre Silva died last week, according to Spanish police.
Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota was likely speeding when his car veered off a motorway in Spain last week, killing him and his brother, Spanish police said.
The shock deaths of Jota, 28, and Andre Silva, 25, on July 3 plunged the football world into mourning, less than two weeks after the striker had gotten married.
An ongoing investigation is examining “the marks left by one of the vehicle’s wheels … everything points to a possible excessive speed beyond the road’s speed limit”, the Civil Guard said on Tuesday.
“All the tests conducted so far indicate that the driver of the vehicle was Diogo Jota,” it added.
The force had previously said a tyre had probably blown out while the vehicle was overtaking, causing it to crash and burst into flames in the northwestern province of Zamora.
Just hours before the accident, Jota had posted a video of his June 22 wedding to partner Rute Cardoso, with whom he had three children.
The deaths sparked an outpouring of grief, particularly in the brothers’ native Portugal and at Jota’s Premier League club Liverpool.
Political leaders as well as star players from Portugal and Liverpool joined family and friends at the funeral on Saturday in the Porto suburb of Gondomar.
Following spells at Atletico Madrid, Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers, Jota became a fan favourite at Liverpool after joining the Premier League giants in 2020.
He netted 65 times for the Reds in five seasons, lifting the League Cup and FA Cup in 2021-22 and helping them win a record-equalling 20th English league title last season.
The striker also earned 49 caps for Portugal and was part of the team that won this year’s UEFA Nations League.
Younger brother Andre played in midfield for FC Penafiel in Portugal’s second tier.
Debris is pictured along the A-52 motorway at the crash site where Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva died in a car crash near Cernadilla, Zamora, Spain, July 3, 2025 [Cesar Manso/AFP]
Warnings have been issued ahead of many summer holidays
Portugal could be at a higher risk of wildfires(Image: Getty Images)
Brits planning a summer getaway to Portugal are being cautioned that the country is entering a period of heightened environmental risk. The Foreign Office has issued a warning, as Portugal faces an increased threat of wildfires from April to October due to the hotter and drier conditions.
Moreover, the wildfire risk spans across the entire country, meaning all travellers to Portugal should exercise caution. British tourists could also face legal issues if they ignore local warnings.
Official advice from the Foreign Office states: “There is an increased risk of wildfires from April to October when the weather is hot and dry. Wildfires can start anywhere in Portugal. Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable.
Portugal is at a higher risk of wildfires in the summer(Image: Getty Images)
“The Portuguese authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons.” Furthermore, Brits have been warned that it is illegal to start a fire in Portugal, even if by accident.
Committing this offence could potentially lead to a fine or even a prison sentence in some cases. If holidaymakers are travelling to Portugal when there is a risk of a wildfire, they are advised to do the following:
follow the advice of the Portuguese authorities
call the emergency services on 112 if you see a fire
familiarise yourself with local safety and emergency procedures
check the fire risk index for your location
Further details on the risk of wildfires in Portugal can be found through the nation’s Met Officehere. An interactive map is included on the site ,which helps to quickly communicate which specific parts of the country are most at risk of a wildfire breaking out.
Major wildfire outbreaks in Portugal
Wildfires have previously broken out in Portugal(Image: Getty Images)
While there have been no significant wildfires in Portugal this year, the risk remains high. In 2025, over 1,000 wildfires ravaged the north of the country, requiring thousands of firefighters to control the flames and resulting in at least nine fatalities.
If you are travelling and staying in a specific part of Portugal during your holiday, you can find the local emergency and safety procedures put in place in the event of a wildfire outbreak here. Furthermore, a complete breakdown of any severe weather warnings both in Portugal and the surrounding region can be found via the European Meterological Services website here.
Tomar, a Portuguese town of 20,000 that sits slap in the middle of the country, may not deliver the simple seaside charm of some of the country’s better-known holiday hotspots, but has plenty else to offer
Tomar in Portugal has been named Europe’s best-kept secret(Image: Getty Images)
The data has been scraped, the numbers have been crunched, and the results are in.
Tomar in Portugal has been named Europe’s best-kept secret, and therefore the perfect place for an off-the-beaten-track holiday. If you’re keen to ditch the tourist traps, then HomeToGo’s Hidden Gem Index is a good guide.
Its ranking is based on a mountain of data including accommodation cost statistics, search trends, and insights about food, scenery, and opportunities for adventure. Its off-the-beaten-path treasures include sun-soaked coastlines and breathtaking landscapes.
That is certainly the case for Tomar, a Portuguese town of 20,000 that sits slap in the middle of the country. It may not deliver the simple seaside charm of some of the country’s better-known holiday hotspots, such as those in the Algarve, but it has plenty else to offer.
The Nabão River runs through Tomar (Image: Getty Images)
For one, it is a town of significant historical importance, replete with all of the architectural treasures and cobblestones you’d therefore expect.
Tomar was built inside the walls of the Convento de Cristo, constructed under the orders of Gualdim de Pais, the fourth Grand Master of the Knights Templar in Portugal in the late 12th century. It was the last Templar town to be commissioned for construction and one of Portugal’s historical jewels in the way it links the modern day back to a now ancient-feeling part of European culture.
Its relevance on an international level continued until the 15th century when it served as a centre of Portuguese global expansion under Henry the Navigator.
The riches that brought at that time are still visible today, especially in Tomar’s cross-shaped medieval centre. There you will find the town’s main church, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, and traditional shops lined with pleasant stores. In Tomar’s cafés, the delights of the local pastries can be appreciated: almond and squash queijadas (cheesecakes) and the traditional Fatias de Tomar (Tomar slices), made with just egg yolks and cooked in a bain-marie.
Flame fans will want to visit the Convent of São Francisco, which is home to Museu dos Fósforos or the Match Museum.
Given that Portugal regularly hits the mid-30s during the summer months and is currently suffering from wildfires, a location to cool off is key. Happily, Tomar has the Castelo de Bode, one of the largest reservoirs in the country.
There you can go on a pleasant cruise with lunch on board, or choose from a wide range of water sports, as well as visit the islet on the River Tagus where Almourol Castle is located, or the riverside town of Dornes.
A break from the cultural beat can be found at Mouchão Park, home of the Mouchão Wheel. The wooden water wheel is a landmark of the city and evokes the time when mills, oil presses, and farmland along the river all contributed to Tomar’s economic prosperity.
The Cloister courtyard in the Convent of Christ(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
“The Castle of Almourol is regarded as Portugal’s most beautiful castle. Situated on a small cliffy island in the middle of the Tagus River, Almourol Castle is one of the most significant military Medieval monuments, which best evokes the memory of the Knights Templar in Portugal,” the Visit Centre of Portugal writes.
“Situated on the left bank of Tagus River, the Natural Reserve of Paul do Boquilobo follows a section of Almonda River born in the Mountain of Serra de Aire e Candeeiros that flows to the right bank of Tagus.”
Tomar is roughly a two-hour drive north of Lisbon, or a one hour train ride which costs £10. EasyJet, Tap Air Portugal, British Airways and Ryanair flies directly from London to Lisbon. There are 23 Ryanair direct flights from London to Lisbon per week. Flights are available every day.
Italy captain Cristiana Girelli fires her side ahead with a “glorious” finish in the 70th minute of their Euro 2025 Group B match against Portugal in Geneva.
