A fortress off the West coast of Portugal that dates back to 1502.  The Fort of São João Baptista das Berlengas is located on the largest island of the archipelago of the Berlengas, in the municipality of Peniche in the Oeste region. The fortification belonged to a group of defensive military structures meant to protect Read More

The first Rhinoceros to set foot on European soil since Roman times did not last long. Surviving the 120-day sea voyage to Portugal, the rhino was a diplomatic gift from India. Arriving in 1515, the Indian rhinoceros was off-loaded near the construction site of the Tower of Belem in Lisbon. Tragically, the rhino never made Read More

Caminha is located 2 kilometres from the Atlantic Ocean, on the southern side of the Minho estuary, where it meets the smaller and meandering Coura. The Minho reaches its widest point (about 2 km) here, forming the boundary between Portugal and Galiza. The picturesque location, with its broad estuary defined by low-tide sandbars, pastoral and Read More

Olive trees have been grown in Portugal for thousands of years, and the country is renowned for its high-quality olive oil. The olive harvest is a big deal in Portugal. It marks the end of the growing season and the start of the process of making olive oil. In this blog post, I will explore Read More

Bridge of Veiga The Ponte da Veiga, located in the village of Torno in the municipality of Lousada, Portugal, is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture from the early 15th century. This single-arch stone bridge spans the River Sousa and is characterised by its slightly broken arch with narrow and elongated voussoirs (wedge-shaped stones that Read More

Located in the municipality of Ponte da Barca, in the midst of the Peneda do Gerês National Park. The terrain is dotted with almost fifty granaries, evoking the mountain communities' communal culture. The castle at the top tells the history. Along with the different structures, ranging from the Igreja Matriz to the old washhouses, it's Read More

During the mediaeval period, Pombal Castle played a critical role in the defence and control of the Mondego River valley. Strategically positioned on high ground, the castle provided a commanding view of the surrounding landscape, enabling effective surveillance and defence against potential threats. Its sturdy walls, reinforced with quadrangular turrets at regular intervals, exemplified the Read More

The magnificent environment of Bemposta complements the village’s cultural wealth. Both of these factors contribute to the parish’s popularity in the municipality of Mogadouro. The village is located in the midst of the Douro International Natural Park on an elevated elevation that offers an enticing scenery highlighted by Faia da Gua Alta and Faia do Read More

Pastel de Nata is a delightful Portuguese treat, featuring a creamy egg custard nestled in a flaky pastry shell, finished with a dusting of cinnamon. The origins of pastéis de nata trace back to the monks of the Hieronymites Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) in Lisbon, who crafted them before the 18th century. At that time, Read More

Chiado is undeniably one of Lisbon’s most enduringly charming districts, steeped in history and brimming with captivating attractions. From its historic stores to renowned international fashion labels, from its theatres and museums to cathedrals and scenic viewpoints, Chiado offers an eclectic blend of experiences that appeal to both locals and visitors alike. Wander through the Read More

Manueline, Portuguese Manuelino, particularly rich and lavish style of architectural ornamentation indigenous to Portugal in the early 16th century. The architectural style of these buildings was named after the king and was reflective of the age with elaborate stonework featuring motifs inspired by both maritime and Christian themes. Manueline architecture, as it is known, is at its Read More

A fortress off the West coast of Portugal that dates back to 1502.  The Fort of São João Baptista das Berlengas is located on the largest island of the archipelago of the Berlengas, in the municipality of Peniche in the Oeste region. The fortification belonged to a group of defensive military structures meant to protect Read More

The greatest way to discover lesser-known areas of Portugal is by car, as each detour and incorrect turn might lead to another lovely town or village. we’ll get you started with some of Portugal’s finest road adventures. Douro Valley Begin in Porto and drive through the Douro Valley, the most popular wine region in Portugal. There Read More

This “Stonehenge” in Portugal is even older than its British counterpart. The Almendres Cromlech is so named because the stones are shaped like almonds (almendres in Portuguese), but they are actually more similar to menhirs, which are freestanding monolithic stones, than to dolmens. The location’s Portuguese name is Cromeleque dos Almendres. Stonehenge in England may Read More

Válega church is a wonderful work of tile painting art and unquestionably one of Portugal's most stunning cathedrals! The church front facing west is particularly lovely at sunset, drenched in sunshine. A true golden temple that glistens with its beautiful multicoloured tiles. Until 1150, the church was patronised by private individuals. This was the Monastery Read More

The 19th-century Shrine of Santuario de Nossa Senhora da Peneda rises above a stairway in Peneda village to the north. Located about 10 kilometres south of Lamas de Mouro and straddling a deep ravine, is one of the most magnificent mountain settlements of the Sierra of Gerês (Parque Nacional da Peneda Gerês). Its surrounded by Read More

An engineering wonder in the heart of Lisbon bears witness to both the city’s historical obstacles and its perseverance in conquering them. The spectacular Águas Livres Aqueduct, which winds over the terrain, was created in response to the 18th-century need for a stable water supply. Consider this: a massive aqueduct that stretches 19 km from Read More

Nestled within the hilly terrain of Lisbon, the Ascensor da Glória stands as a testament to the city’s innovative spirit, linking the sophisticated Avenida da Liberdade with the quirky, historic Bairro Alto district. Since its inaugural journey on October 24, 1885, this funicular has etched its place in the city’s history as the second of Read More