Climates of Portugal

Portugal is a long narrow section of the Iberian Peninsula which is influenced by the North Atlantic Ocean to varying amounts across the country. The northern climates are the same as those in Rias Baixas of Spain with cool and wet weather constantly moving in from the Atlantic. Mountains in the north also contribute to a cooler climate apart from the low valleys that the Douro river have eroded over time. These valleys are also further from the coastal influence and sit within the transition zone with the continental climate of central Spain. Further south, the influence from the Atlantic becomes less apparent while the landscape gives way to rolling hills and eventually to low flat plains in the southern tip which are moderated by ocean currents around the entrance to the Mediterranean. The climate of Portugal is similar to the Western Cape, South Africa, but is further from the equator with Cape Town being approximately 34°S compared to Lisbon at around 39°N. The soils of Portugal are mostly granite along the length of the country making mountainous regions difficult to cultivate. Growing vines is particularly difficult on the hot slopes of the Douro Valley in the north.