0:00:02 > 0:00:06- Welcome to the travel show where we go where you want. - This week, we're in Lisbon
0:00:06 > 0:00:09and as well as visiting the city, we'll find what else the region has to offer.
0:00:09 > 0:00:11On our website, we asked for your tips
0:00:11 > 0:00:13on what to do and what to avoid.
0:00:13 > 0:00:16We've taken them and we're going to rate and review them
0:00:16 > 0:00:18for ourselves and for you at home.
0:00:24 > 0:00:28It takes two hours and 40 minutes to fly directly from Dublin
0:00:28 > 0:00:29to Portugal's capital, Lisbon.
0:00:31 > 0:00:36It's a city famous for its culture, architecture, maritime history,
0:00:36 > 0:00:38natural harbour and its nearby beaches.
0:00:39 > 0:00:42The main question we're asking now, is, should people
0:00:42 > 0:00:45forget about the Algarve and come to Lisbon as a city break?
0:00:45 > 0:00:48I know Portugal is famous for the golf holidays,
0:00:48 > 0:00:51but is it going to be nice 'cos it is so close to the coast
0:00:51 > 0:00:52and I want to get to the beach.
0:00:52 > 0:00:55You're never more than half an hour away from a beach,
0:00:55 > 0:00:57so you can combine a sand and a city holiday.
0:00:57 > 0:01:01Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world that predates
0:01:01 > 0:01:04Rome, Paris and London by hundreds of years and was
0:01:04 > 0:01:05founded by the Romans
0:01:05 > 0:01:08and has had the Moors and the Spanish as lodgers.
0:01:08 > 0:01:11A massive earthquake and tsunami hit Lisbon in 1755,
0:01:11 > 0:01:13destroying nearly all of the city.
0:01:13 > 0:01:17But despite this, there are still beautiful examples of architecture
0:01:17 > 0:01:18from lots of eras, to see.
0:01:18 > 0:01:21Here, you'll find everything from medieval quarters
0:01:21 > 0:01:24with narrow streets and traditionally tiled houses,
0:01:24 > 0:01:28to wide open parks with bold, futuristic architecture.
0:01:28 > 0:01:32Lisbon is built on seven hills, so there are loads of places to go
0:01:32 > 0:01:34and get great views of the city.
0:01:34 > 0:01:37Don't worry, lazy people, there are plenty of buses, trams
0:01:37 > 0:01:39and funiculars to get you there.
0:01:39 > 0:01:42Based on what you've told us on our website,
0:01:42 > 0:01:45we've come up with our top five things to do in Lisbon.
0:01:48 > 0:01:52At number five, you recommended a great way to get to know Lisbon...
0:01:52 > 0:01:53Take the tram.
0:02:00 > 0:02:01You told us to take the Tram 28.
0:02:01 > 0:02:03It is one of Lisbon's city trams
0:02:03 > 0:02:05but it's also a popular tourist attraction
0:02:05 > 0:02:09because it goes through all of the well-known places in the city.
0:02:13 > 0:02:17I'm travelling from Camoes Square to Portas do Sol near the castle.
0:02:17 > 0:02:19The tickets for the tram are only three euro
0:02:19 > 0:02:21and you can hop on and hop off anywhere.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26It's a rickety experience but I think it's lovely and old-fashioned
0:02:26 > 0:02:29and definitely a thing to do in Lisbon.
0:02:30 > 0:02:32A popular stopping off point is Alfama,
0:02:32 > 0:02:35or Lisbon's Old Town district,
0:02:35 > 0:02:38which is where you'll find the Castle of St George.
0:02:46 > 0:02:49The castle is built on the highest of Lisbon's seven hills,
0:02:49 > 0:02:53overlooking the city and it's the city's most well-known landmark
0:02:53 > 0:02:56because of the history associated with it and the beautiful views.
0:02:56 > 0:02:58It's well worth a visit.
0:03:01 > 0:03:05For the history buffs out there, the oldest part of the castle
0:03:05 > 0:03:06dates from the 6th century.
0:03:09 > 0:03:11The castle served as a Moorish royal residence
0:03:11 > 0:03:13until the time of the Crusades.
0:03:16 > 0:03:19This is the first king of Portugal, Dom Afonso Henriques
0:03:19 > 0:03:22and he conquered Lisbon in 1147.
0:03:22 > 0:03:25After that, the Castle St George began its golden age
0:03:25 > 0:03:27as the home to royalty.
0:03:27 > 0:03:31English crusaders helped the first king conquer the Moors to take
0:03:31 > 0:03:33the city and the castle was subsequently named
0:03:33 > 0:03:36after St George, the patron saint of England.
0:03:36 > 0:03:41This friendship led to the Anglo-Portuguese Pact of 1373,
0:03:41 > 0:03:43a trade alliance that's still in force today
0:03:43 > 0:03:46and means that Portugal is England's oldest ally.
0:03:49 > 0:03:52But it's not just the history that draws tourists and locals alike,
0:03:52 > 0:03:53it's the setting.
0:03:57 > 0:04:00At the castle, as well as 360 degree views of the city,
0:04:00 > 0:04:02you'll find an Interpretation Centre,
0:04:02 > 0:04:05restaurant, gallery, church and gardens.
0:04:07 > 0:04:10The castle is open from 9 to 9 daily.
0:04:15 > 0:04:17Outside the castle walls
0:04:17 > 0:04:20the old town is still a residential area
0:04:20 > 0:04:23and you'll also find souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants.
0:04:28 > 0:04:30Whilst Aoibhinn explores the Old Town,
0:04:30 > 0:04:32I wanted to visit a unique collection,
0:04:32 > 0:04:35the only type of its kind in the world and a Lisbon speciality.
0:04:39 > 0:04:41As you walk around Lisbon,
0:04:41 > 0:04:44you can't help but notice the amount of buildings and houses
0:04:44 > 0:04:47decorated with very beautiful, ornate tiles.
0:04:47 > 0:04:49They're a very big deal over here.
0:04:49 > 0:04:52So much so, they have their own museum dedicated to them.
0:04:55 > 0:04:58I know what you're thinking, I'm probably not the sort of man
0:04:58 > 0:05:01you'd expect to be interested in tiles.
0:05:01 > 0:05:04But, seeing as it's housed in an old monastery
0:05:04 > 0:05:07and some of the tiles go back as long as five centuries ago,
0:05:07 > 0:05:10this isn't like an average visit to a DIY shop.
0:05:22 > 0:05:26Now, undoubtedly, there are miles of tiles in piles of styles,
0:05:26 > 0:05:28but this is the most popular attraction.
0:05:28 > 0:05:31Made in 1705, it's 23 metres long
0:05:31 > 0:05:34and depicts the city of Lisbon before the great earthquake.
0:05:41 > 0:05:44We asked you for your recommendations for places to see in Lisbon
0:05:44 > 0:05:47and the number four choice from these suggestions,
0:05:47 > 0:05:50is the historic port area of Belem.
0:05:50 > 0:05:53For centuries, it was a hugely important commercial
0:05:53 > 0:05:56and strategic centre for the Portuguese.
0:05:56 > 0:05:59I asked ex-pat, Barry Ryan, about the attraction of Belem.
0:06:00 > 0:06:04It's kind of a place which sums up the history of Portugal.
0:06:04 > 0:06:07The beautiful monuments celebrating the age of discoveries
0:06:07 > 0:06:11from the time when they used to go out into India and Africa.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13The guy at the front is called Henry The Navigator.
0:06:13 > 0:06:16It's pretty amazing. He was this very eccentric guy.
0:06:16 > 0:06:19He spent his whole life investing and building ships
0:06:19 > 0:06:21and believed the world was round.
0:06:21 > 0:06:23He never saw the fruit of his labour
0:06:23 > 0:06:25because he died in the 1460s.
0:06:29 > 0:06:31Belem is located four miles from the city centre
0:06:31 > 0:06:35and another landmark in this district is the Jeronimos Monastery.
0:06:35 > 0:06:39Vasco da Gama, who discovered the sea route to India, is buried here.
0:06:44 > 0:06:46We also visited the nearby Belem Tower.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49This was built as a symbol of Portugal's important role
0:06:49 > 0:06:51in the Golden Age of Discovery.
0:06:54 > 0:06:57One famous visitor was Christopher Columbus, who stopped
0:06:57 > 0:07:02here on his way home after discovering the new world.
0:07:02 > 0:07:05Over the years, the Belem Tower has been a fortress,
0:07:05 > 0:07:09a custom's house, a prison, a lighthouse and a telegraph tower.
0:07:09 > 0:07:13It's now one of Lisbon's most popular tourist attractions.
0:07:18 > 0:07:22Once you've ticked off the monuments on the must-see list,
0:07:22 > 0:07:25then you'll be glad to try something else that Belem's famous for.
0:07:25 > 0:07:27When you've seen all the sites in Belem,
0:07:27 > 0:07:31you have to finish it off with the Pastel de Belem, the custard tart.
0:07:31 > 0:07:34They say it's the finest custard tart in Portugal.
0:07:34 > 0:07:37Nice, gooey centre, crispy topping.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46Oh, my God, that's gorgeous. Very sweet.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48That is good after a long day's walking.
0:07:50 > 0:07:52It's a city for explorers
0:07:52 > 0:07:55and whilst Aoibhinn's filling her face with tarts,
0:07:55 > 0:07:58I've discovered something that combines history,
0:07:58 > 0:08:00architecture and transport.
0:08:00 > 0:08:04This, is without a doubt, my favourite landmark in all of Lisbon.
0:08:04 > 0:08:05This Santa Justa Elevator.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08Many will tell you it was designed by Eiffel,
0:08:08 > 0:08:09he of Parisian tower fame.
0:08:09 > 0:08:11It actually wasn't.
0:08:11 > 0:08:14It was designed by a Portuguese pupil of his called Du Ponsard.
0:08:14 > 0:08:19This neo-Gothic structure will give you astonishing views of the city.
0:08:20 > 0:08:24The Santo Justa Elevator must be one of the few lifts in the world
0:08:24 > 0:08:28that's been classified as a National Monument.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31Once you've taken the internal lift then you climb a spiral staircase
0:08:31 > 0:08:33o reach the viewing deck and cafe.
0:08:34 > 0:08:37It's open from 7am until 11pm.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40In high season, we'd recommend visiting early, or late,
0:08:40 > 0:08:41to avoid the queues.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53Lisbon is Europe's most westerly capital,
0:08:53 > 0:08:55meaning it's a great place to watch the sunset.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59Once night falls, you told us we need to sample the best of the
0:08:59 > 0:09:02city's nightlife which brings us to the next of the top five.
0:09:14 > 0:09:16In one of Lisbon's oldest quarters
0:09:16 > 0:09:20you'll fine the city's cultural and bohemian heart.
0:09:20 > 0:09:22When it comes to music and nightlife,
0:09:22 > 0:09:25Lisbon punches well above its weight, pretty much
0:09:25 > 0:09:28every international DJ has come through the city to play here.
0:09:28 > 0:09:31It has music festivals throughout the summer.
0:09:31 > 0:09:34If you're not here for those and you still want to get your dance on,
0:09:34 > 0:09:36come here to Barrio Alto.
0:09:40 > 0:09:43One of the hottest tickets in town is for Lux,
0:09:43 > 0:09:46a nightclub owned by super cool Hollywood actor, John Malkovich.
0:09:46 > 0:09:49The one thing you've got to remember, is,
0:09:49 > 0:09:52chucking out time back home is going out time over here.
0:09:53 > 0:09:56A night on the tiles seems appropriate for Lisbon,
0:09:56 > 0:09:58but I was looking for something a bit more authentic
0:09:58 > 0:10:01and you suggested we catch a bit of Fado,
0:10:01 > 0:10:02Portugal's traditional music.
0:10:04 > 0:10:06Now I like almost any type of traditional music
0:10:06 > 0:10:08and Fado is very popular here.
0:10:11 > 0:10:13It might not be everyone's cup of tea,
0:10:13 > 0:10:16but if you want to know more, there is a museum in Lisbon
0:10:16 > 0:10:18dedicated to the music.
0:10:27 > 0:10:31We've identified our top five from your recommendations
0:10:31 > 0:10:33for things to do on holiday in Lisbon.
0:10:34 > 0:10:35It's time for number two
0:10:35 > 0:10:38and it's an excursion to the nearby town of Sintra.
0:10:41 > 0:10:43Sintra is a 30 minute drive from Lisbon.
0:10:43 > 0:10:45It's surrounded by lush, green hills
0:10:45 > 0:10:47and has a lovely fairytale charm to it.
0:10:50 > 0:10:53It's famous for its romantic architecture
0:10:53 > 0:10:56and was once the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family.
0:10:56 > 0:11:00Lots of you said we should come here to see the palaces,
0:11:00 > 0:11:01churches and museums.
0:11:04 > 0:11:08You also told us to take the journey up the hill to the Moorish castle
0:11:08 > 0:11:10which was renovated in the 19th century.
0:11:17 > 0:11:19It's a bit of a hike up here
0:11:19 > 0:11:22but the castle gives great views over the countryside.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31The thing to do here, is to walk around the castle walls.
0:11:31 > 0:11:33But just be sure you're ready for a workout.
0:11:39 > 0:11:42This is a gorgeous little town and what sets off the atmosphere
0:11:42 > 0:11:45even more, is the street lamps actually play music.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48I've never seen that before.
0:11:51 > 0:11:54And who knows what else what you might come across?
0:11:59 > 0:12:03Men in uniform, what else does a girl need on holiday?
0:12:05 > 0:12:07I thought it was lovely, but a bit of a tourist trap.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09It's hectic with visitors.
0:12:09 > 0:12:12My top tip is to visit during the week to avoid
0:12:12 > 0:12:13the crowds at the weekend.
0:12:15 > 0:12:20Here are some more of your suggestions for a visit to Lisbon.
0:12:20 > 0:12:24Like most capital cities, Lisbon has a good selection of parks, museums
0:12:24 > 0:12:27and galleries that you should take time to check out.
0:12:29 > 0:12:32The Park of Nations is where you'll find some of the best
0:12:32 > 0:12:34modern architecture in Lisbon
0:12:34 > 0:12:37and is also home to the Oceanarium, another of your must-sees.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42The Oceanarium is one of the largest in Europe
0:12:42 > 0:12:45and over a million people visit every year.
0:12:45 > 0:12:48If marine life's your thing, then you'll love these giant tanks,
0:12:48 > 0:12:51including the star turn, rare sunfish.
0:12:55 > 0:12:57This state-of-the-art Oceanarium
0:12:57 > 0:12:59recreates different ocean eco-systems,
0:12:59 > 0:13:03including, a North Atlantic tank, a Tropical Indian tank,
0:13:03 > 0:13:06an Antarctic tank, and a Temperate Pacific tank
0:13:06 > 0:13:09with, oh, so cute, sea otters.
0:13:12 > 0:13:14A great way to see the Park of Nations
0:13:14 > 0:13:16is to take a ride on the cable car.
0:13:20 > 0:13:22But the one place I really wanted to see,
0:13:22 > 0:13:25is a monument to the beautiful game.
0:13:25 > 0:13:27Welcome to Benfica Stadium.
0:13:27 > 0:13:32Now, like most nations, in Portugal, football is a religion,
0:13:32 > 0:13:33but more so here.
0:13:33 > 0:13:36The Portuguese refer to this place as the Cathedral.
0:13:42 > 0:13:45The Benfica Stadium, also known as the Stadium of Light,
0:13:45 > 0:13:48is the biggest in Portugal and was built for the 2004
0:13:48 > 0:13:50European Championship.
0:13:50 > 0:13:54There are daily tours which take you behind the scenes.
0:13:54 > 0:13:56So far, so typical for a stadium tour.
0:13:56 > 0:13:59But what separates Benfica from your Man Uniteds, Chelseas
0:13:59 > 0:14:02and Barcelonas is the team's star attraction,
0:14:02 > 0:14:05pest control and team mascot all in one.
0:14:07 > 0:14:11- Hey, Francisco.- Hey, how are you? - You well?- Fine, always fine.
0:14:11 > 0:14:14So, you have two eagles, I see.
0:14:14 > 0:14:18Yes, this one, his name is Victoria and she does fly before the match.
0:14:18 > 0:14:21- Around the stadium?- Around the stadium, exactly, amazing.
0:14:21 > 0:14:24- That is a good pre-match show, right there.- It's amazing.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27To be honest, it is hugely impressive to be here,
0:14:27 > 0:14:31- even in an empty stadium. This holds 65,000 people?- 65,000.
0:14:31 > 0:14:34At this moment, it is the biggest stadium of Portugal
0:14:34 > 0:14:39and when we have 60,000, 65,000 here watching a match, it's amazing.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42I work here all days but when I'm here for a game,
0:14:42 > 0:14:45- it's totally different. - Francisco, thank you very much.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49- Nice to meet you, hope you enjoyed it.- Birds, stay cool, see you later.
0:14:49 > 0:14:52- Victoria and Little Friend. - That's Little Friend?
0:14:59 > 0:15:0230,000 people visit this stadium every year
0:15:02 > 0:15:05and everyone gets one of these, a certificate saying you've done
0:15:05 > 0:15:08the tour with emotion and pride at every step.
0:15:08 > 0:15:10This means I get a game next Saturday, right?
0:15:10 > 0:15:13I will bring my own ball and everything. Yeah, cool, brilliant.
0:15:15 > 0:15:18But you don't have to go abroad to go on holiday.
0:15:18 > 0:15:21Joe is checking out a short-break that is closer to home.
0:15:23 > 0:15:25It could be said that it is every parent's duty to
0:15:25 > 0:15:27take their kids camping at least once.
0:15:27 > 0:15:30But what if you are not exactly the outdoors type?
0:15:30 > 0:15:32Well, you can go glamping.
0:15:32 > 0:15:34Your kids will go that taste of nature
0:15:34 > 0:15:37and you don't have to give up any of your luxuries.
0:15:38 > 0:15:42Teapot Lane Glamping Site is located in north Leitrim, near Bundoran,
0:15:42 > 0:15:45on the border of Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48Only a 2½ hour drive from Belfast and just over three hours
0:15:48 > 0:15:52from Dublin it has four yurts and two holiday cottages
0:15:52 > 0:15:53set in four acres of woodland.
0:15:56 > 0:15:58With a number of beaches nearby,
0:15:58 > 0:16:00it's a great location for a quiet weekend away.
0:16:01 > 0:16:04I'm familiar with glamping from music festivals
0:16:04 > 0:16:06but a lot of people wouldn't be. Sell glamping to me.
0:16:06 > 0:16:09Well, it is as it says, glamorous camping.
0:16:09 > 0:16:12You get the experience of camping with a little bit of luxury.
0:16:12 > 0:16:15You have proper beds, you have your bed linen,
0:16:15 > 0:16:18you have a stove inside to keep you warm.
0:16:18 > 0:16:20And you have all your facilities outdoors for a camp fire
0:16:20 > 0:16:23and a totally different unique experience.
0:16:23 > 0:16:27Is it kind of cheating because it is a scale up from camping?
0:16:27 > 0:16:29Well, it is and it isn't!
0:16:29 > 0:16:31I don't think it has to be a painful experience,
0:16:31 > 0:16:32and it is weather-proof.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35Ireland, the weather is not always perfect
0:16:35 > 0:16:37so it is really nice to have somewhere warm and dry to stay
0:16:37 > 0:16:42and have the fun of camping and being in the outdoors.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44OK, let's have a closer look at the yurts.
0:16:44 > 0:16:48The exterior does not scream glam
0:16:48 > 0:16:50but let's go and have a look at the interior.
0:16:52 > 0:16:56The yurts can sleep two to four people and if the wee ones are staying
0:16:56 > 0:16:57you can squeeze in a few more.
0:16:59 > 0:17:04This is an absolute world away from camping. This is wonderful.
0:17:04 > 0:17:06Why would you want to stay in a hotel?
0:17:10 > 0:17:11This is a first for me.
0:17:11 > 0:17:14I am about go foraging for the food I am about to eat which you
0:17:14 > 0:17:17should not do at home unless you know what you're doing.
0:17:17 > 0:17:19Thankfully, I have a local herbalist, Marina, here to help me.
0:17:19 > 0:17:21We are going to go looking for stuff?
0:17:21 > 0:17:25Are we going to find anything that might possibly kill me or other people?
0:17:25 > 0:17:27No, you will not find anything that will kill you,
0:17:27 > 0:17:29but it is important to know what to look for.
0:17:29 > 0:17:31If you are going foraging, have a guide book with you.
0:17:31 > 0:17:33What is the best time of year to go foraging?
0:17:33 > 0:17:35The best time of year is early spring,
0:17:35 > 0:17:37when things are youngest and more tender.
0:17:37 > 0:17:39Let's get a forage on. Let's do it.
0:17:45 > 0:17:49- OK, Marina, what do we have here? - OK, so this is the elder tree.
0:17:49 > 0:17:53You probably recognise it. It grows all over Ireland.
0:17:53 > 0:17:55It is a wonderful plant.
0:17:55 > 0:17:58We use it a lot for fevers and also for hay fever.
0:17:58 > 0:18:01Also for catarrh, you know that runny mucus.
0:18:01 > 0:18:05- We will be tasty and mucus free. - Exactly!- Where do we go next?
0:18:05 > 0:18:08We are going to head this way. These are nettles.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11It is full of lots of minerals
0:18:11 > 0:18:13an especially iron so we use it a lot for anaemia.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16We are going to harvest some of these young tops to make pesto.
0:18:16 > 0:18:19It is not going to sting you once we make it into pesto
0:18:19 > 0:18:20and it will be really tasty.
0:18:20 > 0:18:24Right next to us here, you will recognise this as well, probably?
0:18:24 > 0:18:26- Sticky-backs? - From your childhood.
0:18:26 > 0:18:28We used to throw it at each other. It is great.
0:18:28 > 0:18:32We'll chop it up quite fine and we can mix it into our salad. Here we have some nasturtiums.
0:18:32 > 0:18:36They have a really nice peppery taste to them. Taste one.
0:18:36 > 0:18:38We are going to pick one of the leaves as well.
0:18:38 > 0:18:40- So we have got all our ingredients? - We are ready to go.
0:18:40 > 0:18:44- We have hunted, we have gathered, let us cook.- Yes, brilliant. - After you.
0:18:48 > 0:18:53Now it wouldn't be my usual choice but on the menu today is nettle pesto.
0:18:53 > 0:18:55You can make pesto out of anything that is green and edible.
0:18:55 > 0:18:58It doesn't just have to be basil. We are going to throw in some oil.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01A little bit of salt and pepper is good.
0:19:01 > 0:19:04And we are going to put in some pine nuts.
0:19:04 > 0:19:06And then a tiny bit of lemon juice as well.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09Is there anything I can do to help you out?
0:19:09 > 0:19:11You can chop up some of those leaves there.
0:19:11 > 0:19:13Chop up a tiny bit of that sticky-back,
0:19:13 > 0:19:15some of these plantain leaves as well and then,
0:19:15 > 0:19:18our nasturtium leaves, I just ripped up a few of them.
0:19:18 > 0:19:21And we have some chickweed there. That's perfect.
0:19:21 > 0:19:25You can throw that there on to the salad, mix it all in there.
0:19:25 > 0:19:29- Grab some of the pesto out of here. - Oh, my goodness.
0:19:29 > 0:19:32Then I will get you to drizzle on some of our herb oil.
0:19:32 > 0:19:34It's made from some herbs from the garden. That's it.
0:19:34 > 0:19:38A quick and easy lunch made out of just what we can find here at Teapot Lane.
0:19:38 > 0:19:40- Good?- Mmm. - Sticky-back never tasted so good.
0:19:42 > 0:19:44It explodes, all the tastes just explode.
0:19:44 > 0:19:46The pepper explodes in your mouth. Amazing.
0:19:47 > 0:19:50If you fancy a glamping break at Teapot Lane,
0:19:50 > 0:19:53a four-person yurt costs from 180 euros
0:19:53 > 0:19:55for a two-night midweek break.
0:19:58 > 0:20:02Teapot Lane is only 11 kilometres from the beaches of Bundoran,
0:20:02 > 0:20:05where I wanted to fulfil another long held ambition.
0:20:10 > 0:20:13Being a man weaned on Westerns as a child,
0:20:13 > 0:20:16it has always been my dream to ride tall in the saddle.
0:20:16 > 0:20:21Well, up here in Bundoran, you surely can, partner.
0:20:21 > 0:20:22Hello, there. Hello, Mairead.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25I will warn you, if this fine beast is called anything like Killer
0:20:25 > 0:20:28or Bucker, I am not getting on it.
0:20:28 > 0:20:32- No, this is Bishop.- Hello, Bishop. He is a big fella, isn't he?
0:20:32 > 0:20:35- He is indeed.- That is pretty far to fall, to be honest, like.
0:20:35 > 0:20:37All right, well, we'll get started.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42- Squeeze with both legs and ask him to walk on.- Walk on.
0:20:45 > 0:20:50The next thing we are going to try is a little trot. Push yourself up.
0:20:50 > 0:20:52And down. Up and down.
0:20:55 > 0:20:58Oh! Is difficult to get the rhythm, to be fair.
0:20:58 > 0:21:01OK, I agree, I don't make it look easy or glamourous
0:21:01 > 0:21:04and I'm not going to win any Olympic golds any time soon,
0:21:04 > 0:21:07but it definitely brought out my inner cowboy.
0:21:07 > 0:21:08Giddy up, Bishop.
0:21:14 > 0:21:18If you fancy a turn in the saddle, the Donegal Equestrian Centre
0:21:18 > 0:21:21offers a wide range of lessons from one-to-one to groups.
0:21:24 > 0:21:26This is the bit that makes it really special.
0:21:26 > 0:21:30You get to bring the horse down to the beach. Look at this.
0:21:30 > 0:21:32It's just beautiful.
0:21:32 > 0:21:36And I understand why John Wayne walked the way he did.
0:21:36 > 0:21:38Come on, Bishop, let's go, boy.
0:21:46 > 0:21:48Back on my own two feet and I am still foraging,
0:21:48 > 0:21:51this time for a unique bathing experience.
0:21:51 > 0:21:53Apparently, it is very soothing.
0:21:53 > 0:21:57After that horse ride, believe me, parts of me really need that.
0:21:57 > 0:22:00This time, I'm not going to be eating what I'm foraging,
0:22:00 > 0:22:03but nonetheless, seaweed has some magical powers.
0:22:03 > 0:22:06It is said to cure arthritis,
0:22:06 > 0:22:10skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
0:22:10 > 0:22:11And they are used in a bath?
0:22:11 > 0:22:13Is this a new thing or has it been going on for a while?
0:22:13 > 0:22:17There is a tradition of baths in the area, in particular there is
0:22:17 > 0:22:21a family that have been operating baths for over 100 years.
0:22:21 > 0:22:23Wow. I think I got a wee bit more here.
0:22:24 > 0:22:27I was a little bit enthusiastic. I got caught up in the moment.
0:22:27 > 0:22:30Now the seaweed has been picked it has to be prepared.
0:22:30 > 0:22:32What happens is, first of all it is washed,
0:22:32 > 0:22:36to get rid of bits of shell and perhaps the occasional baby crab.
0:22:36 > 0:22:38It is brought over to these tubs here.
0:22:38 > 0:22:40Hot water is poured over them to blanch it
0:22:40 > 0:22:42because that helps bring out the essential oils in it.
0:22:42 > 0:22:46And then it goes into the bath which already has some heated,
0:22:46 > 0:22:48filtered sea water.
0:22:48 > 0:22:50A nice salty bath of goodness right there.
0:22:52 > 0:22:53This is the first part,
0:22:53 > 0:22:57you going to a steam cabinet for ten minutes which opens up your pores
0:22:57 > 0:23:00so when you go into the bath it helps absorb all those nutrients.
0:23:02 > 0:23:04And before you ask,
0:23:04 > 0:23:06I am not auditioning for a role in Doctor Who.
0:23:08 > 0:23:10And look at this, form an orderly queue, ladies.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17And, no, you don't end up smelling like a fish.
0:23:19 > 0:23:23It just feels like being in a beautiful, warm, oily, watery bath.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27I can feel it absorbing into me. It's great.
0:23:33 > 0:23:36Back in Lisbon, we have been selecting our top five
0:23:36 > 0:23:40choices from your recommendations of things to see and do here.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43It is time to reveal our number one choice.
0:23:50 > 0:23:54It seems that despite all of the cultural delights on offer
0:23:54 > 0:23:57in Lisbon, not surprisingly, the one thing that floated your boat
0:23:57 > 0:24:01more than anything, is the fact that it is so easy to get to the beach.
0:24:01 > 0:24:03If you like getting the sand between your toes,
0:24:03 > 0:24:07you can take the train for a half hour outside the city and go to Estoril.
0:24:12 > 0:24:17Half-an-hour and four euro later you are transported from the city to the coast.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22The trains go every 20 minutes and they ran as late as 1:30am
0:24:22 > 0:24:26so you can go for a day trip and make a night of it as well.
0:24:32 > 0:24:35We visited in June and the beach was not too busy.
0:24:35 > 0:24:38But it can get packed in summer as people can get here
0:24:38 > 0:24:39so easily from the city.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44There's a range of beaches all within 20 to 30 minutes
0:24:44 > 0:24:48from Lisbon, so it was easy to combine a city and beach break.
0:24:50 > 0:24:52The beach here is absolutely immaculate
0:24:52 > 0:24:54and this is one of the reasons why.
0:24:54 > 0:24:55Portable ashtrays.
0:24:55 > 0:24:58Take it from the wee holder, stick it in the sand, splash your ash,
0:24:58 > 0:25:01close the lid, empty it in the bin. Bish, bash, bosh, done.
0:25:04 > 0:25:07Estoril was once known as the playground for the rich
0:25:07 > 0:25:09of Europe and it still retains some faded grandeur.
0:25:14 > 0:25:18And you really don't need to go to the Algarve to find a good golf course.
0:25:18 > 0:25:21There are more than 20 courses located between 30 minutes
0:25:21 > 0:25:24and an hour-and-a-half away from Lisbon.
0:25:25 > 0:25:29If golf's not your thing, then there are other ways to find your fun.
0:25:29 > 0:25:32In fact, you will find the largest casino in Europe right here.
0:25:34 > 0:25:37Now, Estoril may be popular for people who love the beach
0:25:37 > 0:25:39and indeed, the casino, but if you are a film fan,
0:25:39 > 0:25:41this is worth a visit, the Hotel Palacio,
0:25:41 > 0:25:45featured in the 1968 Bond film on Her Majesty's Secret Service.
0:25:45 > 0:25:48And worth noting that both the concierge
0:25:48 > 0:25:50and the doorman from the film still work here.
0:25:51 > 0:25:54- Good morning, Sir.- Hello, sir.
0:25:54 > 0:25:57WHISTLES JAMES BOND THEME
0:26:03 > 0:26:06There's no doubt Estoril offers a great alternative to the hustle
0:26:06 > 0:26:08and bustle of Lisbon City.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11And there's a good selection of hotels to choose from.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16We recommend the Hotel Londres a three-star hotel that is good
0:26:16 > 0:26:21for families and a double room here will cost from 54 euro per night.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24This price is based on two sharing and includes breakfast.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34Back in Lisbon, we stayed in the Marques de Pombal, a four-star hotel
0:26:34 > 0:26:37with 123 rooms.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42The hotel is located in the historic centre of Lisbon.
0:26:42 > 0:26:45We particularly liked the funky headboards.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51You'll be paying from 71 euros per person, per night,
0:26:51 > 0:26:52based on two sharing.
0:26:58 > 0:27:00If you are looking for a smaller, boutique hotel,
0:27:00 > 0:27:03then we liked the look of the Heritage Avenue Liberdade,
0:27:03 > 0:27:07a beautifully restored 18th century Lisbon town house.
0:27:08 > 0:27:12This boutique hotel will set you back from 70 euro per person,
0:27:12 > 0:27:13per night based on two sharing.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29We booked our hotels and flights separately
0:27:29 > 0:27:33and we travelled with Aer Lingus, who fly to Lisbon from Dublin.
0:27:36 > 0:27:41For more information about Getaways visit:
0:27:49 > 0:27:53On our website you will find lots more of your recommendations
0:27:53 > 0:27:56for places to see and things to do when you are in Lisbon.
0:28:01 > 0:28:03- So what did you make of Lisbon? - It was a real surprise.
0:28:03 > 0:28:06I didn't expect to find as much as we did here.
0:28:06 > 0:28:08My highlight of the trip would have to be the town of Sintra.
0:28:08 > 0:28:12- It is cute and magical and well worth a visit.- Absolutely.
0:28:12 > 0:28:13To be honest, mine is quite abstract.
0:28:13 > 0:28:16Mine would be the nightlife here. You can find every type of music.
0:28:16 > 0:28:18Lisbon people really know how to party.
0:28:18 > 0:28:20You can come here and have an absolute ball.
0:28:20 > 0:28:24So it is a good alternative to the Algarve, not just a city break, would you agree?
0:28:24 > 0:28:25Absolutely, I would completely agree.
0:28:25 > 0:28:29You have got to come here, I would come back. That is it from Lisbon.
0:28:29 > 0:28:30We will see you next time on Getaways.
0:28:55 > 0:28:57Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd