Lauren Hill

Where to beat the crowds in Portugal

  • From Spectator Life
Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal (iStock)

Following the news that Portugal, including Madeira and the Azores, has a place on the UK’s green list, many of us are writing off other destinations and eyeing up its travel potential for the first time. There’s more to Portugal than the Algarve: whether you’re in search of vines, hiking trails or secluded shores, it’s possible to pull off an extremely varied break here. 

The Coast

As popular as Portugal is for its beaches, its long Atlantic coastline and wealth of islands means there’s plenty of coastal seclusion to be found. The Serra da Arrábida Natural Park near Lisbon covers more than 100 square kilometres and is the setting for several sandy stretches and smaller coves including Praia de Galapinhos. 

Quieter beaches in the popular Algarve then include those of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, which stretches along the coast between Garrão and Manta Rota beaches. Boat trips from Faro—capital of the Algarve—introduce you to the uninhabited island of Ilha Deserta.

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