Portugal, officially known as the Portuguese Republic, is a country located in the southwestern part of Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. It shares its borders with Spain to the east and north and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. The country has a diverse geography, ranging from stunning coastlines and sandy beaches to rugged mountain ranges and rolling plains. The mainland of Portugal can be divided into five distinct regions. The north features the picturesque Douro Valley, famous for its vineyards and Port wine production. The central region is characterized by the capital city of Lisbon, rolling hills, and historic towns such as Coimbra and Évora. The Alentejo region in the south boasts vast plains and cork oak forests, while the Algarve is renowned for its stunning beaches and coastal resorts. The mountainous region of the Serra da Estrela in the interior is a popular destination for hiking and winter sports. Portugal's climate varies across the country, influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Generally, the coastal regions have a maritime climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm summers. Inland areas experience more extreme temperatures, with colder winters and hotter summers. The Azores and Madeira Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean, have a subtropical climate, offering pleasant temperatures year-round.