The Algarve region is one of Portugal’s most popular destinations, thanks mainly to its pleasant climate and stunning beaches. The caves and cliff stacks that back golden sands and turquoise waters (when the light is right) draw holidaymakers in their droves but the Algarve is more diverse than most peopleRead More →
The wide waters of the Tagus River are an integral part of Lisbon’s identity and history. As well as reflecting the kind of light that inspires poetry, the river brings the city boats of all sizes carrying fish, workers, tourists and shipping containers from distant shores. Intrepid navigators once setRead More →
In all my years of blogging about Portugal, I’ve neglected to tell you about the many things to do in Coimbra. This pretty riverside city, presided over by a UNESCO Word Heritage university, has a fascinating history that visibly dates back to Roman times. As the first place I livedRead More →
Many people in the Vila Nova de Poiares neighbourhood learned to swim in the swimming pools at Recreio da Fraga leisure complex (nicknamed Fraggle Rock in our house) but it became neglected and was closed down for many years. Thanks to the efforts of the local council and local investment, theRead More →
If you’re planning a trip to the southern region of Portugal, check out my insider Algarve tips before you book your holiday. Find out when to go, what to pack, what to do and what Portuguese food to try to make your Algarve vacation a success. See this article forRead More →
The breathtakingly beautiful Douro wine region has become one of Portugal’s must see destinations. Commonly referred to as the Douro Valley, the World Heritage landscape actually extends way beyond the Douro River and is dotted with towns, villages and wine estates. While it’s possible to get a quick glimpse ofRead More →
There’s more to Évora than the chilling Chapel of Bones.Read More →
For years I had it in my head that Setúbal was a dreary industrial city of little interest. Happily, I was wrong. At less than 40 minutes drive or a 55-minute train ride from Lisbon to Setubal, it’s an easy day trip but one I’d never bothered taking. I was,Read More →
Picture a collection of whitewashed cottages perched on a cliff overlooking a sandy beach and rocky coastline and you’ve got the village of Azenhas do Mar. In fact, you may already have seen images of this charming village within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park – it’s very photogenic. Mike and I wentRead More →