Portugal

Landscape

Portugal’s mainland has Atlantic-facing coasts, northern uplands and generally lower southern terrain. Major rivers cut westward toward the ocean. Interior valleys and plateaus differ from the more strongly maritime coastal belt.

The Douro Valley is a deeply incised river landscape with cultivated slopes. The Algarve includes limestone cliffs, coves and beaches. Portugal also includes the volcanic Azores and Madeira archipelagos, whose island geography differs from that of the mainland.

Climate & seasons

The north is generally cooler and wetter than the south. Atlantic influence moderates coastal temperatures, while inland areas have greater seasonal contrasts.

Rainfall contrasts

The northwest is generally wetter than the south and interior. Dry summers influence Mediterranean vegetation and farming. Atlantic exposure, elevation and river access all help explain local differences in land use.