Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal People walking in the springtime sun on Albufeira Beach in Portugal

Albufeira is undoubtedly one of the more touristy towns in the Algarve but that doesn’t mean it lacks charm or places of interest. On my many visits I’ve found loads of wonderful things to do in Albufeira to suit all ages and tastes, making it a popular base for manyRead More →

Aerial view of Mafra Palace and the surrounding grounds.

Mafra Palace or Palácio Nacional de Mafra is certainly something to behold. Visitors to Portugal flock to Sintra to enjoy the delights of Pena Palace but they probably don’t realise that a mere 28 kilometres north of Lisbon there’s a far less touristy option. Mafra National Palace is home to oneRead More →

Two people hiking through colourful countryside in the Algarve

I love getting off the beaten track, especially on foot, so I was excited to be invited to spend a week exploring the countryside on a small group guided walking holiday in the Algarve. Our accommodation for the week was a luxury villa overlooking the Funcho River and reservoir, anRead More →

Steps down and sunset at Camilo Beach Lagos

Lagos is one of the most popular destinations in the Algarve region of Portugal and for good reason. Many visitors are attracted by some of the best beaches in the Algarve and the dramatic beauty of its cliff-stacked coastline but that’s not all that Lagos has to offer. The oldRead More →

Colourful Benagil caves, Lagos, Portugal

A highlight of many people’s trip to the Algarve region of Portugal is visiting the famous Benagil cave and the surrounding coastline. Benagil caves tours operate from coastal locations between Lagos and Albufeira so you don’t have to make a separate journey to Benagil to start your tour. I didRead More →

Inside Lisbon's Christmas tree. Image by Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal

If you’re going to be spending Christmas in Portugal, or New Year, and don’t know what to expect, this post is for you. Find out how and where to celebrate, how the Portuguese do things and what events are going on during the festive season. Note: As information gradually becomesRead More →

Muxia village and harbour from Monte Corpiño. End of the Camino de Finisterre and Muxia

As well as walking both main routes of the Portuguese Camino north of Porto, including the Variante Espiritual, I’m happy to say that I’ve now walked to the “End of the World” on the Camino de Finisterre and Muxía, which starts in Santiago de Compostela.  I’m becoming a bit ofRead More →