Fascinating Portugal Beyond the Tourist Trail with Julie Fox

Portugal is a fascinating country, but there is so much more to discover beyond Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.In this episode, I'm joined by Portugal travel expert Julie Fox of Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal, who has called Portugal home for nearly 20 years. Julie shares how she ended up moving from the UK to Portugal, why the country immediately felt like home, and what has kept her there ever since.Together we explore some of Portugal's lesser-known destination — from charming riverside towns and medieval villages to beautiful natural areas filled with walking trails and stunning scenery. Along the way, Julie introduces us to places such as Ponte de Lima, Buçaco National Forest, Marvão, Alcobaça, Monchique, Penha Garcia, and several coastal communities that offer a quieter and more authentic experience of Portugal.We also discuss Portugal's only national park — Peneda-Gerês National Park, scenic hiking trails (Julie is a keen hiker), and practical tips for travelers who want to venture beyond the country's biggest cities. Julie shares advice on the best time to visit, whether a rental car is worth it, and how to make the most of Portugal's incredible mix of history, culture, nature, and outdoor adventure.If you enjoy slower travel, spending time outdoors, discovering charming small towns, and getting beyond the usual stops, this episode will inspire you to explore a different side of fascinating Portugal.Want to chat more about Portugal?Send me an email at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com.In this episode:1:32: Introducing Julie Fox4:24: Julie's travel story10:21: Lisbon & Porto16:27: North Portugal: Ponte de Lima20:09: Peneda-Gerês National Park23:45: Central Portugal: Buçaco National Forest28:36: Eastern Border: Penha Garcia32:39: Central: Alcobaça38:09: Moving South: Alentejo Region49:10: Algarve Region: Monchique & Alvor57:12: Additional hiking1:02:21: Travel tips plus a few more spots1:13:13: Wrapping it upImportant links:Julie Dawn Fox in PortugalVisit PortugalWander Your WayWander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way ResourcesVuori ★ Support this podcast ★