Somehow the idea of a country like Portugal – famed for its superb seaside beach destinations – having a forest worth seeing doesn’t quite sit right in the mind. But having accepted the idea that the Bussaco National Forest is there, you’ll be glad you spent the time looking for it. Otherwise known as Mata Nacional do Bucaco, this forest is to be found to the north east of Coimbra. It may not be on too many itineraries for holidays spent by the sea here, but it should definitely be on your itinerary.

There are literally hundreds of different kinds of trees here, and they are but one of the reasons why the forest is so popular with all kinds of people. Backpackers love exploring its depths and you will soon see why they love it so much. The scenery provides a welcome contrast to the rugged cliffs and other sights you’ll find around the coast of Portugal. This is particularly true of the popular Algarve area in the south of the country.

You can even stay in style for a night or two in the resplendent Palace Hotel do Bussaco if you like. This hotel is set right in the middle of the forest and peeks out of the trees like a true fairytale castle. It is most unlike any other hotel or castle you may ever have set foot in before, and if you have spent hours exploring the forest you will want to reward yourself with a stay here. It is truly capable of taking the breath away.

One of the most interesting facts about the forest is that it doesn’t only contain native specimens of plants and trees. It also contains trees that have been introduced to the forest from many other countries. Since it is also many centuries old you can wander among the tall trees and wonder at how much (or indeed how little) it may have changed during that time.

When many of us think of Portugal we think of the seaside, the beaches and the magnificent views over the ocean. But as you can see, it is worth looking inland as well to discover some more amazing secrets.