In certain destinations, tourism is not just about sun and sea. There are less explored regions that, despite being discreet, have unique characteristics. Costa Verde is one of those places that is now beginning to attract the attention of British tourists looking for natural landscapes and different experiences, rather than the south of the country.
With a mountainous coastline, small beach resorts and pilgrimage trails, the Costa Verde has remained off the radar of many British travelers, who typically choose the south of the country for their holidays. This region receives much fewer British tourists than the Algarve, throughout the year
However, the panorama begins to change. According to what the Daily Express newspaper says, an increase in the presence of British people has been observed in the hottest months of recent years, especially between June and September.
Cool climate and nature
The north of Portugal does not share the dry, prolonged climate of the south. Winters are more humid and harsh, but summer offers moderate temperatures and more stable days. According to the same source, this is the best time to visit, with average temperatures of 18 °C and little precipitation.
The irregular geography and the influence of the north wind make the weather unpredictable. Morning fog is common and can last until mid-morning. Therefore, it is advisable to plan activities with some flexibility, in accordance with the recommendations from the same source.
Options for weekends or long vacations
Costa Verde can be used both as a weekend getaway and as a destination for two weeks of rest. For short stays, the same source recommends, you should choose just one location and make the most of what it has to offer.
Póvoa de Varzim, for example, is known for its casinos and golf courses. Ofir beach offers walks along the dunes, while Afife attracts surfers.
Simple access and good connections
Porto marks the southernmost point of Costa Verde, which makes it easy to reach the region. The red metro line reaches Póvoa de Varzim, a good base with beaches and surfing areas, as previously mentioned.
Regional trains allow you to travel between Campanhã station and the town of Caminha, close to the border with Spain, in a journey of around ninety minutes.
Wild beaches and pilgrimage trails
The beaches in this region stand out for their wilder nature, says the source mentioned above. The coast is cut by estuaries that shape the sand and create natural landscapes, often framed by hills and dunes with pine trees.
Azurara is touted as an accessible place for families, with a long beach and gentle waves. Ofir Norte beach is more isolated, with fine sand shaped by the influence of the Cuiabá River.
Among the highlights highlighted by the publication is also Arda beach, close to Vila Praia de Âncora.
The region also attracts walkers, according to , as part of the Camino de Santiago passes through there. This pilgrimage route connects Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela, in Spain. It can be traced from several coastal locations on the Costa Verde.
Local wine
The most popular trails include the forested area north of Castelo do Neiva, with oaks and pine trees, and the promenades next to Afife beach. To finish a day of hiking, you can choose to taste the local wine.
Between the wines of the Douro Valley and those of northern Spain, there is the green wine of Costa Verde. This light, citrusy wine is gaining recognition, especially for the innovative varieties grown in the region.
Interestingly, some locations on the Costa Verde are part of one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in Europe, the Portuguese Coastal Way, followed for centuries by pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela.
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