Watch Globe Trekker: Portugal & the Azores

As a travel documentary produced by Globe Trekker, 'Portugal & the Azores' offers viewers an immersive experience of Portugal as well as a glimpse into its lesser-known island region, the Azores. Directed by Ian Cross and Andrew Pearce, this documentary showcases the country's stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. The documentary begins in Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. Host Christina Chang begins her journey by exploring the city's historic landmarks, such as the Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery. She then takes a tram up to Lisbon's hilly neighbourhoods, where she encounters colourful houses and enjoys stunning views over the city.

After leaving Lisbon, Christina travels further north to Sintra, a picturesque town known for its stunning palaces, extravagant mansions and charming estates. She visits the famous Pena Palace, considered one of Portugal's most exquisite examples of Romantic architecture.

The documentary then takes viewers to the northern city of Porto, the birthplace of port wine. Christina's tour of Porto includes the city's iconic Ribeira district, filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops along the Douro River, as well as the Livraria Lello, one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal, which is famous for its winding staircase and stunning stained-glass windows.

Christina retraces the Portuguese seafarers' footsteps as she travels to the Azores, an archipelago of nine volcanic islands located a thousand miles from the western coast of Portugal. The Azores remain one of the best-kept secrets in Europe due to their remote location, preserving the islands' natural beauty and cultural heritage. In Terceira Island, Christina discovers the picturesque town of Angra do Heroismo and its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, Christina visits the Fumaroles Valley, a volcanic crater that emits milky blue water and sulfuric steam, and witnesses the thermal waters' therapeutic properties at Terra Nostra Park. Her journey also takes her to Sete Cidades, a stunning twin crater lake that boasts one of the most magnificent vistas in the region.

Heading back to Portugal mainland, Christina visits Coimbra, a university town that is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. The town boasts an impressive cultural and architectural heritage, and Christina takes time to explore its famous Joanina Library, a baroque-style library known for its vast collection of historic books.

The journey ends in the southern region of Algarve, where Christina discovers the stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs that have made this region one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Her visit to Cape St. Vincent and Sagres features the fortress that once protected the naval explorers during their voyages of discovery.

Overall, Globe Trekker: Portugal & the Azores is a vibrant and informative travel documentary that offers an immersive and engaging experience for the viewers. It showcases Portugal and the Azores' rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, inviting travellers to explore this European gem for themselves.