FollowPure Shores Lola Needs to See!
There’s something about the ocean that is a cure for the soul. I have to say the ocean and beach are my absolute favorites and with all the hubbub heard from my good friends about Portugal, it has quickly moved to the top of one of my “must” places to go STAT. Portugal’s coastline totals nearly 1,000 km, so there’s certainly plenty of it worthy of exploring. There are tiny coves only accessible by boat to vast stretches of pristine white sand, and everything in between – Portugal sounds like it has it all. From the windswept sands of the Costa Verde to the well-known tourist sports of the Algarve, the only problem for beach lovers might be choosing which ones to visit during their trip. So, from what I hear, these are some of our must-see seaside spots for travelers going to Portugal.
1. Alvor
People don’t like to tell others about Alvor – because they like to keep it a little secret. But given that this seven-kilometre strip of fine, golden sand is said to be one of the most spectacular in Portugal, I couldn’t leave it out. At the eastern end, you’ll find Praia dos Três Irmãos, a stunning collection of coves, rocky outcrops and caves ripe for exploring. If it gets too busy during the summer months, take a stroll along the recently built wooden boardwalks to reach the estuary side of the beach, usually only frequented by locals, where you can watch the daring feats of the kitesurfers who gather here. SOUNDS ACTION PACKED!
2. Sagres
For sheer drama, not much can beat a visit to Sagres. Here, it’s almost as if Mother Nature is showing off her might as waves pound the cliffs at the place once described by famous explorer Henry the Navigator as “the end of the world”. Breathtakingly unspoilt, Beliche Beach is a magnificent bay of soft, golden sand, sitting beneath towering cliffs. Nestled between Sagres point and Cape St Vincent, it is almost deserted out of season, and little frequented even in the height of summer, with only a handful of keen surfers and the occasional explorer are found appreciating its raw beauty. DRAMATIC, like a movie.
3. Costa Verde
Portugal’s green coast is renowned for its wild beaches, popular with windsurfers and surfers looking to catch the perfect wave. But, the Vila Praia de Ancora, protected from the formidable winds of the Atlantic by the Serra d’Arga hills to the north and the Monte de Santa Luzia to the south, offers calm waters for sun bathing. An unspoilt refuge from the troubles of the world, the Vila Praia de Ancora offers sheltered spots, stunning sugary-white sand and pristine clear water. You had me at sugary-white sand – HEAVENLY!
4. Praia do Meco
Meco Beach is quite popular with the Portuguse, so they say. There’s good surfing to be found but perhaps it’s a favorite for its ‘mecca’ of nude beach goers. Only 40 km south of Lisbon, Meco Beach is protected by high cliffs and has green mud which sun worshipers use for skin treatments. Meco Beach has many good restaurants along the beachfront keeping it a destination even past the season of the sun. SOUNDS RACY YET FUN!
5. Tavira
Reached by a pretty miniature train which takes you through dunes and marshes, the Praia do Barril is an atmospheric spot that pays homage to the tuna industry which once thrived here, with a collection of anchors which look like an outdoor art installation. There are two restaurants where the train drops you off, but walk a little way east or west and the crowds thin out, leaving just you and miles of clean, empty sand. SHHH…how lovely.
With special summer holiday deals and frequent flights into Faro and Lisbon, it’s easy to experience this beautiful country’s beach life. It truly is a beachgoers paradise. And, with hundreds to choose from, there’s certain to be one, or perhaps five, that are perfect for you. I am ready to pack by bags…how about you?
