Carrapateira, on the Costa Vicentina in the western Algarve, is one of the best surf destinations in Europe. Of course, there are plenty of other things to do as well, but its main claim to fame is the top-class surf scene. With not one, but two, relatively undeveloped beaches (Praia do Amado and Praia da Bordeira) featuring exceptional waves, you are sure to notice plenty of surfers and more than a few long-term campervans perched on the cliffs along Portugal’s west coast. Praia do Amado from the cliffs The narrow ribbon of Ribeira da Carrapateira runs through the village down to the ocean, where it adds to the already impressive scenery. Up and down the coast in both directions are awe-inspiring limestone cliffs and desolate sand dunes, part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. The same intense currents that make it such a good surfing destination have…

Aljezur Portugal offers the rare combination of vibrant surfing scene, fascinating historical site and traditional architecture. Located just inland on the amazing Costa Vicentina, Aljezur is split in two halves by a small river, each side with its own unique personality. On the west side you’ll find the ancient Moorish quarter, full of old buildings, narrow alleys and a prominent medieval castle. Across the river and up the hill, the east side is more modern, with a pair of impressive churches, a pretty main square and many excellent restaurants with outdoor terraces. In keeping with its popularity as a surfer hangout, the Aljezur new town features some good hostels, bars and pizza places. Aljezur is actually located around 10 kilometres in from the coast but the beaches are still easily accessible. Aljezur Map The Aljezur old town along the river dividing the town Things to Do in Aljezur Take Advantage…

Odeceixe and Praia de Odeceixe are a wonderful little village and beach pairing found right at the start of the stunning Costa Vicentina in Southern Portugal. Featuring the lazy, picturesque waters of the Ribeira de Seixe (Pebble River), this beautiful area marks the border between the Portuguese regions of the Alentejo (north) and the Algarve (south). It is also the unofficial start (or end) of the famous Fishermen’s Trail, a wild, scenic coastal hike that runs for about 60 kilometres between Odeceixe and Porto Covo. The Fishermen’s Trail, however, is also just a portion of an even bigger, better trek, the incredible Rota Vicentina, which stretches all the way south to the Cabo Sao Vicente lighthouse, then continues east across the Algarve as far as Lagos. We enjoyed perfect weather and great scenery for 11 dazzling days on the Rota Vicentina in early March while most of Europe was still…