"Summer? But it's still Winter! There's plenty of time to sort the holidays... Plus we're in a pandemic..." Yep, that's true. But the truth is COVID seems to be here to stay and it's possible to travel in a safe way provided all the healthcare and safety measures are followed. Also the current offer won't be similar to the one you'll find later on.
Despite being cautious or carefree, planning ahead is always a good call. It gives you something positive to look forward to, it's great news for those relying on the tourism industry (which has been hibernating for a good while), there are more and better offers, loads of great deals and, on top of it all, flexible cancellation policies. As we see it, it's actually the perfect timing to plan the so anticipated summer holidays. After all, when the weather is grey and gloomy, we crave for warmth and long sunny days...
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Portugal is not only one of the best surfing destinations in Europe, but also one of the best in the world, with surf breaks all year round and for all types of surfers. In the winter the swell is bigger and more appropriate for experienced surfers, whereas summer time is great for beginners as the waves tend to be smaller. For those eager to initiate in the sport there are surf schools all across the country and some even organise intensive courses and summer camps to learn and improve skills.
In this journal post we tell you more about surf in Portugal and why our country is a fantastic destination for those aiming to tackle some waves. Portugal is a small country but it has two shores exposed to the Atlantic Ocean, which means there are loads of gorgeous beaches, from the northwest tip to the southern edge. Apart from the coastal beaches, there are many beautiful ones located in the countryside and others in the archipelagos of Açores and Madeira.
As you see there is a wide variety and not to mention the most spectacular sunsets, which makes travelling in Portugal an absolute joy for beach fans. Find below which are our favourite ones. On our When to Go Where in 2020 article we chose Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park for July 2020. This protected area is located in the southwest coast of Portugal and is a famous summer holiday destination for many reasons. In fact, this territory has so many highlights that it's hard not to fall in love with it and keep coming back to confirm why.
Óbidos and Peniche are our destinations of choice for June 2020. Even though travelling entails extra care, these two towns remain a safe bet and combined they make up a delightful mix of what Portugal has to offer: traditional architecture, water sports, fresh fish and natural scenery.
They're located only half an hour driving from each other and there's plenty to do around the area, so spending your holidays targeting Óbidos and Peniche is a fantastic idea. We'll tell you why below. Serra de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park is a protected area with almost 40.000 hectares located in the central part of the country, in the region of Beira Litoral.
Inside the park there are some small towns with a laidback atmosphere, where tourism has been growing in a slow and sustainable way, promoting and preserving the natural and cultural heritage. The drive from Lisboa takes about 1h and from Porto 2h, making it a great destination for a long weekend or even a base camp for some longer holidays. The surrounding area also has many points of interest, which we’ll write about in more detail. We chose Viana do Alentejo as our April 2020 destination, mostly because of the horseback parade of pilgrims that takes place during this month. Apart from this curious yearly tradition there are many other reasons to venture to the heart of the Alentejo during Spring.
Portugal is an incredible holiday destination for lovebirds and there are options for all sorts of couples. Whereas it is a break to celebrate a special date, a honeymoon or just an escape from the frantic daily routine without the kids, our country has some perfect romantic hideaways.
We've once again come up with a "When to Go Where" as we have done in the past couple of years. For each month of 2020 we selected a destination in Portugal which for some reason we feel is just perfect. Read this post if you are in need of some travelling inspo.
In the last couple of years Comporta has been on the bucket list for many travellers who choose Portugal as their holiday destination. This small coastal town marries the best of the beach and the countryside and has a lot going on in its favour, such as beaches with long stretches of sand, delicious gastronomy, adorable little houses and stylish retreats. During off peak season it is an even more peaceful and inspiring destination. In fact, one of the best times of the year to visit is Winter, when silence, desert beaches, fresh fish and wide golden rice fields can sum it up.
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