Costa Vicentina and Alentejo coast guide: the best places to stay and things to do
The road turns to gravel about three kilometres before you see the ocean. You'll know you're close when the tarmac runs out and dust starts coming into the air vents. Pull over, step out, hear the roaring waves throwing themselves against the cliffs somewhere beneath you. The village has one cafe, it opens when it opens. This is Costa Vicentina.
Most people when they think of the South of Portugal they think of golf resorts and packed promenades. This is not that, Costa Vicentina is quite literally the opposite. It stretches roughly 150 km starting in Sines all the way down to Sagres, and it spans two of Portugal’s most beloved regions; Algarve and Alentejo. Drive
Almost every kilometer falls within one of Europe’s most impressive protected natural parks. This coast is Portugal's best kept secret, resulting in an untouched landscape, very similar to what it looked like centuries ago. There is so much to see and do here, let this guide be your starting point:
Why visit Costa Vicentina? 4 reasons to go
Magnificent beaches
There are only so many places where a beach can still be yours alone. Stretching up to 3km many of these beaches are only reachable by foot. No sunbeds, no beach bars, just dunes and the blue-green Atlantic.
Authentic fishing villages
Porto Covo and Villa Nova de Milfontes are villages that remind you what a coastal town can look like when tourism hasn't taken over. Where local life is still vivid, fishing boats still go out in the morning, cafes are filled to the brim with locals and not everything is aimed at tourists.
Extraordinary surfing
Arrifana, Amado and Monte Clerigo are amongst the best surf breaks in Europe, attracting surfers from all parts of the world. Yet despite this reputation the environment remains refreshingly authentic.
Catch of the day
Eat straight from the sea at local tascas that have been serving the same families for generations. Forget the menu, the choice is whatever came in that morning, paired with local wine and bread. It couldn’t get more Portuguese than that.
Top places to stay on the Costa Vicentina
Porto Covo
One of the prettiest villages on the Portuguese coast, with the typical portuguese cobble stone streets and clifftop square looking out at sea and the small island of Ilha do Pessegueiro.
Where to stay?
Porto Covo is the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway. Around the village, you can find self-catering villas, many just a short drive from the beach. Their central location permits travellers to take an evening stroll and experience the lively square
Browse our selection of boutique hotels and holiday homes in Porto Covo
Where to eat?
For fresh seafood in Porto Covo, head to Marisqueira O Pescador for a classic fish lunch or Zé Inácio for a sit-down dinner, order the octopus.
Vila Nova de Milfontes
Where the River Mira meets the Atlantic, this small town is the perfect vacation spot. Famous for its great restaurants, stunning beaches and lively ambience in the evening.
Where to stay?
Around the historic centre and along the river Mira, you can find charming boutique hotels, and self catering apartments, within walking distance from the town’s cafes and restaurants.
Browse our selection of boutique hotels and holiday homes in Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Where to eat?
Vila Nova de Milfontes is known for its excellent selection of traditional Portuguese restaurants. Tasca do Celso is probably the most well-known restaurant in town, they serve excellent Portuguese traditional food. Patio Alentejano is also an Alentejo gem, with fair prices and friendly service.
Aljezur
Complete with the classic blue and white Algarve houses, Aljezur is a laid-back town built around a moorish castle, from the 10th century. Most importantly three gem beaches all within 15 minutes drive; Arrifana, Monte Clerigo and Amoreira.
Where to stay?
Around the village, you can find charming bed and breakfasts and self-catering holiday homes, a short drive from three of the best beaches on the coast.
Browse our selection of charming bed and breakfasts and self-catering holiday homes in Aljezur
Where to eat?
O Paulo sits right on the cliff looking down onto Arrifana beach, it is the right choice for seafood. If you want a break from fish, Arte Bianca´s sourdough pizza is a must. A little further inland you have a classic Portuguese restaurant, O Petrol, a local favourite. Order the secretos de javali (grilled wild boar).
Carrapateira
Discovered by surfers decades ago that never really left. Bordeira beach, one of the most famous beaches in Carrapateira, is known for its immense dunes and picturesque cliffs. Amado beach, which is just down the road, is equally impressive.
Where to stay?
Carrapateira is the perfect retreat for those looking to relax. Ranging from holiday homes with beachviews to countryside bed and breakfasts, the options here are all just a short drive from both Bordeira and Amado.
Browse our selection of boutique hotels and holiday homes in Carrapateira
Where to eat?
O cabrita is a local staple, its quaintness is part of its charm. Microbar on the village square is perfect for a lighter meal or a drink after the beach.
Sagres
Sagres marks the extreme southwestern tip of Europe. The town itself is a quaint, untouched town, remaining much as it has always been. Another great surf spot, with beaches like Beliche and Praia da Mareta.
Where to stay?
In and around the village, you can find seaside design hotels and beachfront resorts. Their location right on the ocean allows you to take a dip or catch the sunset within minutes
Browse our selection of boutique hotels and holiday homes in Sagres
Where to eat?
A Sereia is the go-to for fresh seafood, the restaurant is set in the same place as the fish auction. Fermento is perfect for a drink and a light meal at sunset.
Activities and Places to Visit
Costa Vicentina has plenty to offer, whether you're here for the waves, the trails or the food.
Surfing
With breaks like Arrifana, Amado, Monte Clerigo and Beliche, the Costa Vicentina is one of the best surfing destinations in Europe. Lessons and board rentals are available in most villages, perfect for anyone who is looking to learn how to surf. Breaks range from beginner friendly to advanced.
Hiking the Rota Vicentina
The Rota Vicentina is a 750 km network of hiking trails. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful coastal walks in Europe. The trail divides into two main routes, the Fisherman's path that follows old fishing paths which run along the entire coast and the Historical way which cuts inland through cork forests and farmland. Both are well marked and the full route is roughly 230km and usually done in 11 to 13 stages.
Gastronomy
Costa Vicentina is not a place for fancy restaurants and that is exactly the point. Fresh fish over charcoal and barnacles served at plastic tables in tascas.
Cultural Activities
The Moorish castle in Aljezur dates back to the 10th century and looks over the entire surrounding valley. At the far end of the coast, Cape St. Vincent, the most southwestern point of Europe, has been a landmark for sailors for centuries. Its lighthouse is still working today.
Travel Tips
When to go
July and August are the warmest months but also the busiest. The coast doesn't get as overcrowded as other parts of the Algarve do, but accommodation fills up fast. For quieter beaches and cooler temperatures, May, June and September are ideal. The best swells for surfers are from October to March.
How to get there
The nearest airports are Faro and Lisbon. Both have good connections from most European cities. Flying into Lisbon gives you the option of driving the coast from north to south, which is the best way to experience it.
Getting around
A car is essential. The villages are spread out and public transport is very limited. The roads are well maintained and driving between villages is part of the experience. Filling up the tank when you can is absolutely necessary, gasoline stations are scarce between villages.
What to bring
A wetsuit and a board if you plan to surf and good walking shoes for the Rota Vicentina. Sun protection should be stronger than you think. The UV can be disguised by the Atlantic wind, but don't underestimate it. Layers for the evening are a must too, even in July.
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