Portugal

Lisbon/Lisboa

The rooftops are simply perfection and so is the city.

Bairro Alto/Bica

Hilly Bairro Alto walks and Bica downslopes. And my hamstrings wouldn't have it any other way.

Grafitti on stone. Alfama, Lisboa.

Castelo de São Jorge

Always aim to reach the summit, especially when the wind is high.

Typical Portuguese breakfast with traditional Pasteis de Nata.

Sintra

A fairytale village of castles atop hills and beaches down below

Snapped this on a walk home in Sintra. I was struck by the irony of the portraiture, and tried to establish it in the framing of the shot.

Quintas (castles) within miles of trees, both lush and barren.

View of Sintra's Praia Grande

Colares

Beautiful farming village within Sintra

Enjoy rustic country eating of traditional Bacalhau Assado. Be sure to make a stop in at  Adega do Coelho Your stomach (and soul) will thank you.

The fresh fruit from the weekend farmer's market in Almoçageme isn't too bad either.

The magic of Adraga. Unlike Praia Grande, this beach is small but, like Sintra's  fruit, it's oh so sweet.

Cascais (Alcabideche/Biscaia)

During my morning run, what did I take a cardio break to stop and behold? The majesty that is Praia do Guincho. Otherwise known as "the surfers' beach" in Cascais. Surfer or no, it is still a great place to take a dip. Don't forget to take time to stroll the boardwalk above... I see you, Cascais, and I like what I see 🌴🌊

Coastal view of Praia do Guincho at sunrise

Azenhas do Mars

Beach at dusk.

And at dawn.

What Portugal beach trip would be complete without the requisite "I-am-about-to-hit-the-beach" selfie? 😚

Northern Portugal

Porto

Crossing the Douro River into Gaia.

I don't know where this road leads, Gaia. But, I am taking it. Especially if I meet a glass of wine at the end. The Road to the🍷Cellars

Livraria Lello & Irmão

Southern Portugal

The Algarve

Portugal truly has some of the best beaches. What a treat to spend the day working on one. The Algarve has spoiled me. I am officially now a beach bum. And clearly so is the old chap down below. I kept gazing at the water with the same wonder and reflectiveness. Every. Blessing. Counted.

Albufeira (Praia de Pescadores)

Never in my life have I felt so mighty, yet so small. As required, the universe and Portugal's incredible natural rock formations, as any good parents would, will continue to guide and check me on my journey. Reminder: I am but a wee speck of matter in this giant universe.

A Day in Old Town Faro

Municipal Museum

Porto Covo