Monday, May 20, 2013

Algarve, Portugal

Date of this adventure: January 26, 2013

Our third day in Portugal was devoted to exploring the Algarve coast!
Portuguese countryside 

Welcome to the Algarve coast!
Our first glimpses of the beach and ocean
The warm weather was such a welcomed break from our long Scottish winter!

What a lovely place to own a home.

Starting out on our hike to the beach








Exploring



The water was the most wonderful mix of blue and green.
SO MUCH SUN!!!!
Getting some much needed vitamin d








If you visit Algarve, you must make sure to see Ponta da Piedade.
These little boat tours take people in and out of the little caves and coves.
God's creation is magnificent!







Such a beautiful place to read and pray


Our Smart Car that we hired for the weekend

Fortress at Sagres
Most southwestern point of mainland Portugal


A lovely sunset to end our trip to Algarve
We definitely recommend a trip to Algarve, Portugal. You won't be disappointed.

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Lisbon, Portugal

Dates of this adventure: January 24-25, 2013

Not knowing much about Portugal before this trip, James and I were excited to explore and learn about the city.

Walking through historical Lisbon
The Santa Justa Lift, located in historical Lisbon, connects the lower streets of the Baxia and the higher Carmo Square.

Having arrived in Lisbon late in the evening, James and I headed out for a traditional Portuguese dinner.
Beef, rice, beans, and french fries

Baked fish, boiled potatoes, and broccoli
Nothing special. Pretty regular.

The next morning, we  casually wandering through Lisbon's city centre.

Check out the incredible roots on this tree!

We headed to Miraduro Sao Pedro Alcantara for a panoramic view across the city to St. George's Castle and central Lisbon.

 St. George's Castle

Overlooking Lisbon

Loved seeing those palm trees
Soaking up the intricate details of a few local churches

National Pantheon of Santa Engracia

Bacalhau, dried and salted cod, is a popular Portuguese dish. Unfortunately, the pungent, old fish smell permeates the entirety of every local grocery store. I had to pinch my nose shut when I was inside the stores. Needless to say, we did not purchase any of the cod for our picnic lunch.

The hills of Lisbon present an accessibility problem. This funicular railroad connects a few of the city's most popular areas.

Lisbon is not lacking in incredible views.

Making our way toward the sea


Miniature doors!

Sampling a bit of port wine that originated in Portugal was a delightful way to end our first day in Lisbon.