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 →

Train in the Gare do Oriente station, Lisbon Portugal.

Many visitors arriving in Portugal’s capital city find the urge to travel from Lisbon to Lagos in the Algarve. Whether you’re planning to visit the incredible Benagil caves, relax on some of the best beaches in Portugal, or discover some of the other many things to do in Lagos, theseRead More →

Baroque facade of Brejoeira Palace near Moncao. One of the best palaces in Portugal

Some of the best examples of Portuguese architecture can be found in its stunning palaces. They are known for their grandeur and beauty, with several having been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. Many of the palaces in Portugal are influenced by a range of styles; an eclectic mixture from Neo-ManuelineRead More →

Aerial shot of Tavira and the Gilão River in the Eastern Algarve, Portugal

Tacky tourist traps make me want to run screaming back to the countryside. Thankfully, Tavira has managed to avoid such horrors despite being in the Algarve, i.e. Portugal’s most popular region for tourists and expats. Although unspoilt and decidedly laid back, there are still plenty of things to do in Tavira.Read More →

Fishing boat on the Gilão River in Tavira. Things to do in the Algarve

You may choose to visit the Algarve for its beaches, after all many will argue that you will find the best beaches in Portugal here and the Algarve has just been awarded Europe’s Leading Beach Destination for 2023 by the World Travel Awards. But in my experience it’s always worth prising yourselfRead More →

Couple sharing romantic sunset dinner on the beach. Romantic getaways in Portugal

Narrowing down the selection of idyllic locations for romantic getaways in Portugal has been a tough job. There’s just so much choice! To keep it simple, I’ve highlighted places for every region in Portugal where you and your sweetheart can feel the love and not just on Valentine’s Day. Table ofRead More →

View from castle walls, one of the things to see and do in Loulé, Algarve, Portugal. Photography by Julie Dawn Fox

Thanks to its inland location, Loulé has remained unscathed from the blight of holiday resorts that mar some of the coastal areas in the Algarve. What you’ll find here is a quiet, attractive town with a strong local community and plenty of culture and creativity. Here are some of the things to doRead More →