Gardens M'AR de Ar Aqueduto Hotel, Evora

Evora is one of those small, attractive Portuguese cities that really deserves spending quality time in. While you can visit its highlights on a day trip if time is short, consider adding at least a couple of nights to your itinerary. To make that easier to do, this article isRead 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 →

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 →

Paper windmill, Ruas Floridas 2013

Every two years, the white-walled Alentejan town of Redondo becomes awash with colour and creativity during the Ruas Floridas (Flowered Streets) festival. Don’t be fooled by the name; there much more to this event than paper flowers. The forty-three participating streets are filled with themed displays ranging from football toRead More →

Medieval village of Mértola in the Alentejo region of Portugal at dusk. Photography by Julie Dawn Fox

One of Mértola’s merits is its location. Ensconced within the Guadiana Valley Natural Park, the alluring medieval village is also a convenient base for nature lovers wanting to go on walks or adventures in the countryside (see my hotel picks at the end of the article). The historical centre of Mértola village is builtRead More →

Marvão village and Serra de São Mamede seen from the castle walls

When I first visited Marvão, in the Alto Alentejo region of Portugal, I was on foot and weary after a couple of botched attempts to follow a walking trail uphill to the village. After eventually finding the correct cobbled path through the cork oaks, I emerged in a fairy taleRead More →

Alentejo Coast Walking holiday, Portugal

The unspoilt Alentejo coast offers incredible views and dramatic scenery. From small sandy coves to wide golden beaches and cliff-backed shores, the coastline is ever-changing and immensely photo-worthy.  As you make your way from village to village, you’ll encounter wildflowers, sand dunes, rare storks and a host of other wildlife.Read More →

Monsaraz village, Alentejo, Portugal, viewed from the castle

I know that many of you enjoy getting away from the hustle and bustle of cities to explore picturesque villages and I’ve shared many of my favourite villages in Portugal with you over the years. In anticipation of a public vote on the best villages in Portugal, I decided to roundRead More →