THE COAST BESIDE THE SEASIDE
From the river Sado to Zambujeira do Mar, the Alentejo coastline is magnificent, with dozens of fabulous beaches and clear pristine sands.
At their southernmost, they are wide and wild, part of the last unspoilt coast in Europe. From Sines to Troia lies an endless ribbon of pure sand, culminating in a long peninsula at the mouth of the Sado river. With white sugar-fine sands, pine forests and crystal waters there is a high-end resort feel with a glossy glitz quite different to the southern coastline. Find coast beaches
THE RIVERS AND RESERVOIRS
THE TRANQUILLITY OF THE INTERIOR
After the exhilarating waves of the Atlantic, the slow moving waters of the rivers and lakes offer respite and a peaceful haven for wildlife and unique ecosystems. The lakes and reservoirs, with mirror-smooth waters, are perfect for various watersports. Take a canoe or kayak and gently paddle around the little tributaries and inlets – there’s an amazing variety of wildlife to see on the shorelines. Take a boat and potter about for an afternoon on the placid waters of Lake Alqueva – it’s very straightforward, no licence or any experience required. Or simply take a boat trip for a couple of hours and get a feel for this magically tranquil place. Find river beaches
SURFING
HANG TEN ALL DAY
Much of the Alentejo coast, especially the southern stretch, is undeveloped, untamed and unashamedly brilliant for serious surfers.
The thumping surf and exhilarating spray are the key with the waves at their best from autumn through to spring (though you can surf all year round). The beach at São Torpes is considered one of the region’s finest for surfing connoisseurs. So much so that has a year-round surf school and attracts international competitions. Vila Nova de Milfontes is another leading surf hotspot, with a range of surf camps and surf schools, not to mention accommodation tailored to the needs of the surfing fraternity. Find surf
