In certain destinations, tourism is not just about the sun and sea. There are less exploited regions that, although discreet, ‘keep’ unique characteristics. This region in Portugal is one of these places that now begins to gain the attention of British seeking natural landscapes and different experiences, to the detriment of the Algarve.
To Costa Verde
With a mountainous coast, preserved beaches, small bathing resorts and pilgrimage rails, the green coast has remained out of the radar of many British visitors, who usually elect the Algarve for vacation.
This region receives much less British than the Algarve, at all times of the year, however, the scenario is changing.
There is an increase in the influx of British in the hottest months, especially between June and September, as referred to in Daily Express.
Fresh climate and nature
North Portugal does not share the dry and prolonged climate of the southern. Winter is more humid and harsh, but summer offers mild temperatures and drier days. According to the same source, this is the best time to visit, with average temperatures of 18 ° C and little precipitation.
Irregular geography and the influence of the north wind make time unpredictable. The morning fog is frequent and can extend to the middle of the day.
Therefore, it is appropriate to plan activities with flexibility, according to the recommendations of the same source.
Options for weekends or prolonged holidays
The green coast can be both a weekend escape and the destination for two weeks of rest. For short stays, it recommends the same source, you should choose one locality and make the most of what it offers.
Póvoa de Varzim, for example, is known by casinos and golf courses. Ofir Beach provides walks by the dunes, while the affife attracts surf practitioners.
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Simple access and good calls
Porto marks the southernmost point of Costa Verde, which facilitates access. The red line of the subway reaches Póvoa de Varzim, a good base with beaches and surf zones, as mentioned above.
Regional trains allow you to travel between Campanhã and Vila de Caminha, already near the border with Spain, in a way of about ninety minutes.
Wild beaches and pilgrimage rails
The beaches of this region stand out for the wildest nature, refers to the source mentioned above. The coast is ‘cut out’ by estuaries that shape the sands and ‘create’ landscapes, often framed by hills and dunes with pines.
Azurara is pointed out as an accessible place for families, with a long beach and soft waves. Ofir Norte is more isolated, with thin sands shaped by the influence of the Cávado River.
Among the highlights indicated by the publication is Praia Arda, near Vila Praia de Âncora.
The region also attracts walkers, according to, as part of the path of Santiago passes by. This pilgrimage path connects Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. It can be followed from various coastal locations of Costa Verde.
Local wine
The most appreciated rails include the forest zone north of Castelo do Neiva, with oaks and pine trees, and the walkways over Afife beach. To finish a day of walking, you can bet on tasting the local wine.
Between the wines of the Douro Valley and the northern Spain, is the Verde Verde Verde. This fresh and citrus wine is gaining recognition, especially by innovative castes cultivated in the region.
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