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We all admire the diverse places that there are in Portugal. It is such an amazing country that anyone can find anything they love, whether picturesque towns and cities, magnificent palaces and castles and landscapes of the sea and nature. Whether you have already toured Portugal or are just beginning to discover its abundance, it is important for us in “Over the rainbow Portugal” to tell about all the special places that can be observed endlessly and do not necessarily appear in tour guides. In this article, we will review eight such places in the southeast of Portugal that can be reached by car or caravan trip.
In recent years vacations on wheels have become especially popular and in a country like Portugal, where every landscape is breathtaking, they are becoming unforgettable. The Portuguese real estate website Idealista told about 8 places not to be missed in the southeast of Portugal on a trip on wheels.
Following a travel route without schedules or pressures is an excellent alternative for those who like to make stops to enjoy the magnificent views that the country has to offer.
So on your next visit to Portugal, rent a car, take some friends or family and start to discover the most beautiful places!
Here are 8 places that you really can’t miss!
Travel route for a ‘roadtrip’ along the Costa Vicentina
The Costa Vicentina needs no introduction. It includes some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal with all the natural charm that comes with being located in the Natural Park of Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina, so this area meets all the requirements for an unforgettable road trip be it by car or by caravan. The region has countless places for you to discover, so grab your keys, book some accommodation if your wheels don’t include it, and get going to some of these points of interest:
Sines
Sines is the starting point of this route. A picturesque city known for its maritime activity, it is the birthplace of the famous navigator Vasco da Gama. There are several points of interest, such as the Igreja Matriz or the Castle of Sines. Take the opportunity to explore the historic center and, if you have the time, hop over to the fishing port.
São Torpes beach
Known for its five kilometers of vast sandy beach, and characterized by its warm waters, heated by the nearby thermoelectric power station. However, as the plant has recently closed, and summer has passed, maybe just go for a walk along the scenic sands!
Samoqueira Beach
This is one of the most beautiful areas in the southwest of Alentejo, with a vast wild sand habitat and natural pools that form during low tide. With easy access and parking, if your road trip is passing nearby there really is no excuse to miss this!
Porto Covo
Your road trip would not be complete without visiting Praia dos Buizinhos, which is at the western end of this village and has been gifted with a beautifully serene sea and magical, enchanting views. Time your visit with the low tide though; this beach is so small it almost disappears when the tide comes in.
Peach Island
This is perhaps the most famous location on this ‘road trip through Portugal, as it is the inspiration for a song by Rui Veloso. It has a vast stretch of sand where the Corgo do Pessegueiro stream flows into the sea. In summer, it can be visited by boat, where you can visit the ruins of Forte de Santo Alberto, built to protect the region from pirates.
Cape Sardão
This is the westernmost point of the Alentejo coast. At the top of the cliff, you can find a century-old lighthouse that guides the brave men of the sea. This area is not so well known, and is one of the coast’s best-hidden treasures, particularly for nature lovers as it is the perfect place to admire white stork nests.
Pego das Pias
In the municipality of Odemira, Pego das Pias is a true Alentejo paradise surrounded by nature. We advise you to make a stop to walk the pedestrian trail, and… don’t forget your camera on this one. The natural setting and impressive rock formations are worth noting, in addition to the many natural lakes where you can take a dip. There are also a variety of green spaces, perfect for picnicking.
Amália beach
This is one of the most secret places on Costa Vicentina and its name comes from the Portuguese fado singer Amália Rodrigues, who had a house on top of the cliffs. It is not easily accessible; this is a spot off the beaten track. However, as you traverse through the dense vegetation, you might be surprised by the natural beauty of this expansive sandy beach.
If you are traveling by caravan, we advise you to inform you of the new rules that you must follow in Costa Vicentina so that you can have a truly restful vacation.
So now that you have discovered the hidden places in the southeast of Portugal, we hope your next trip will be experiential and enjoyable, thanks to the breathtaking landscapes.
Read on our website in the “Tourism” category about other places in Portugal. You are also welcome to join the Facebook group “Over the Rainbow Portugal” where you will receive all the latest updates about Portugal.
