portugal, with its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers some of the most idyllic vacation spots in europe. looking for adventure, relaxation but also a little bit of cultural immersion? the destinations i'm going to tell you about stand out for their unique charm and allure. here’s a guide with some tips on places you really have to go!
comporta: the european spotlight
comporta, once a hidden gem on portugal's coast, is now in the european spotlight. here’s a personal guide from Li to this evolving paradise, focusing on her timeless favorites.
"my favorite beaches have always been pego and carvalhal, and, to be honest, everything makes me think that the spirit is shifting toward carvalhal and melides, further south.
alternate between sublime comporta beach club and restaurante sal for dinner. at restaurante sal, savor the cuttlefish rice and pineapple with lime zest. other favorites include dona bia for clams and razor clam rice, jacaré restaurant for pizza, and sal burger for a cozy caravan meal.
purchasing fresh fish from dú peixe store is a wonderful option if you are renting a house. you’ll find everything you need, and the quality and pricing are really appealing.
lavanda and the rice museum shop are perfect places for a last-minute shopping, but relax, you're on vacation and that's what comporta is for. nonetheless, I will always do my update of international magazines at the stationery and tobacco shop isadora
my top stays are sublime comporta and quinta da comporta, each offering a unique and luxurious experience. in reality, each place has a distinct positioning and brought a unique offer to comporta.”
ria formosa: where nature meets tranquility
ria formosa has a special taste for cau, so i took some notes with her on the places you can't miss on your itinerary through this fantastic region.
start your trip on tavira island, known for its pristine beaches such as barril beach. here you can enjoy innovative portuguese cuisine at come na gaveta or drive around a bit until you get to cabanas de tavira and sample the wonderful dishes at noélia restaurant.
immerse yourself in the lively markets of olhão and take a ferry to explore the armona and culatra islands which are really a paradise on earth!
another place you can't miss is cacela velha, a historic village with panoramic views over the ria formosa and the atlantic. the nearby fábrica beach offers a peaceful beach experience, accessible by a short boat ride or on foot. to end your day on a high note, take the opportunity to taste some portuguese snacks at casa da igreja.
for a luxury retreat in the middle of nature, consider quinta dos perfumes or pensão agrícola, both of them offer unique accommodation that combines comfort with ecological practices. these retreats are the perfect base from which to explore the natural wonders of ria formosa, while enjoying personalized hospitality and a serene environment.
costa vicentina, part of the southwest alentejo and vicentine coast natural park, is renowned for its rugged cliffs, wild beaches, and untouched landscapes. it’s definetly a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers and I love it! for me, exploring this coast off road was another level of experience! a unique way to get to know its beauty and unspoiled landscapes. you can access to hidden beaches, remote villages and viewpoints that are often inaccessible by normal vehicles.
arrifana beach, popular with surfers, has impressive cliffs and powerful waves. another beach that definitely won my heart was amado beach, where you can count on stunning natural scenery and golden sands.
want to eat something? in zambujeira do mar we have the restaurant barca tranquitanas that is a charming eatery known for its traditional portuguese dishes and friendly atmosphereand. and if you go a little further along the coast you'll find the monte clérigo beach and sargo restaurant which offers fresh seafood with spectacular views of the ocean.
for a peaceful stay choose a minimalist suit at boutique hotel amaria in odeceixe (it's ideal if you want to relax in a quiet village!). if you want a more vibrant experience, birds of paradise next to arrifana beach features eclectic, bohemian decor and lush gardens, perfect for those who enjoy dynamic settings near popular surfing spots.
joana gonçalves is the new member of our team. her educational background includes a bachelor degree in economics and a post-graduation in digital marketing. ambitious & motivated, she believes CINCO is the best way to a new fresh start.
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