Glimpses of … Western Portugal Coast
Western Portugal Coast
Traveling from Lisbon, we ventured west to the beautiful coastal oasis of Cascais. Cabo da Roca was also a stunning stop, with clifftop views of the most western point of Europe. Historic Sintra’s Moorish Castle served as a primary defensive fort between the eighth and ninth centuries, and its Pena Palace hosted Portuguese royals during the Summer months.
Other fascinating sites included Buddha Eden Gardens, the historical medieval town of Obidos, Batalha Monastery — a 13th-century architectural super structure, and the giant waves of Nazare!
This Gothic Batalha Monastery is an architectural masterpiece that was built over a century between 1386 and 1517
The Cabo da Roca cape is the westernmost point of the European continent
This Cabo da Roca lighthouse began operating in 1772
WHAT?!? A crazy lady texting from the edge of the cliff!
Creating more special memories with Joe & Terri
Cascais is a traditional Portuguese fishing town that previously served as a summer vacation destination for nobility
Bacalhoa Buddha Eden is an Asian peace garden that includes impressive sculptures, lakes and terracotta soldiers
Nazare has a submarine canyon over 200km long and 5km deep that splits waves into two, creating some of the biggest waves in the world (a surfer's paradise)!
Here's how it works ...
Surfer earning extra cash using additional talents
The charming medieval town of Obidos was a wedding gift for Queen Isabel of Portugal in 1282
An inspired artist at work
The impressive Grand Bookstore of Santiago in Obidos
Joe & Stephen (patiently?) waiting while the ladies investigate the market
Ginjinha, a cherry brandy liqueur, is especially popular in Portugal, with an ancient recipe originating in Obidos, where the tradition of serving this beverage in small chocolate cups began
Praia d'El Rey is a western Atlantic coast beach with stunning scenery. We heard about this area from Ronan McMahon, a real estate investor associated with International Living, whose publications we have followed for years. His research influenced our decision to purchase property in Portugal.
Sintra's fairytale-like castles, gardens and 10th-century Moorish ruins are a highlight of Portugal, only 25km from Lisbon.
Alex Ramos, our favorite guide in Portugal, shared intriguing stories with us as we toured Sintra (link to Alex's FB page by clicking on this photo)
Feeling on top of the world!
Ginjinha cheers!
Stephen striking a lifestyle model pose ...
Quinta da Regaleira Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
