Lamego is one of the most interesting towns in Portugal’s Douro Valley, known for its monumental baroque staircase, historic centre, sparkling wine and cultural attractions. I often recommend it to people who want a break from vineyard visits and river cruises without losing the character and atmosphere of the Douro.Read More →
Elvas is one of Portugal’s most underrated historic towns. Close to the Spanish border in eastern Alentejo, this UNESCO World Heritage city is best known for its vast star-shaped fortifications, military history and impressive aqueduct. But what surprised me most when I revisited Elvas recently was how enjoyable it isRead More →
Having walked both of the main Portuguese Camino routes between Porto and Santiago de Compostela, as well as the Variante Espiritual, the Litoral Way and the Santiago – Finisterre – Múxia Camino, I’ve helped thousands of other walkers plan their own Camino Português. If you’re thinking about walking the PortugueseRead More →
Are you wondering whether there are enough things to do in Sagres to justify a day trip or considering using it as a base when you’re in the Algarve? Read on to find out what’s in store so that you can decide if it’s the right place for you toRead More →
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 →
Portugal offers many spectacular hiking trails, with routes for all levels and a huge variety of landscapes. I’ve had the pleasure of walking in every region of mainland Portugal as well as many of the islands of Madeira and the Azores. Here are some of my favourite hiking trails inRead More →
This small city in northern Portugal is famous for the legend that lies behind the painted souvenir rooster of Barcelos. Judging by the number of giant cockerels dotted around the historical centre, this is still its main claim to fame but there are more things to do in Barcelos thanRead More →
Why should you visit Viseu in central Portugal? Well, perhaps because it’s such a lovely place that it’s repeatedly been voted ‘Best city in Portugal to live in’. I won’t be moving up there any time soon but I am pleased to have got to know it a little better.Read More →
Portugal’s Silver Coast stretches roughly between Lisbon and Porto and includes historic towns such as Óbidos, Alcobaça and Nazaré as well as quieter beach resorts and nature reserves. As a beautiful, green, agriculturally rich area of Central Portugal with gorgeous beaches, ancient and interesting towns and villages and activities rangingRead More →
