Beyond the capital’s blockbuster charms — those cobbled lanes draped across seven hills — Portugal is simmering with surprises. Storied trails, marine sanctuaries and palaces seemingly pulled from the pages of a fairytale all lie within striking distance, each with a rhythm that’s distinctly local. While the romantic turrets of Sintra and chic seaside restaurants of Cascais make them the undisputed favourites among daytrippers, the country rewards those who venture a little further.

This 35-page brochure distils weeks of field reporting from Portugal’s interior, as well as previous trips to its islands. At its core are stories about innovators and craftspeople, based on time spent cork harvesting in montado forests, tracking the revival of burel wool in Serra da Estrela, tasting regenerative wines by jeep safari, and profiling chefs and producers reshaping rural economies. These first-person narratives are supported by in-depth city guides and adventure round-ups — from stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve of Alqueva to dramatic trekking in the Paiva Gorge — all grounded in my experiences beyond the tourist trail.

Published with the October issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).