Where can you find the best waves in Europe? How about Portugal, of course! If you want to master surfing, come to Surf-N-Waves and join our exclusive surf school . Our surf camps offer a unique and unforgettable opportunity to learn surfing in Europe's best surf spot – the Algarve. Our expert teachers will guide you step-by-step through the fundamentals of surfing, while our all-inclusive approach provides you with expert accommodation, health insurance, and a tailored schedule that fits around your studies.
The Algarve Surfing Safari
One of the world's great beach escape destinations awaits you at the southern tip of Portugal: the Algarve. Whether you prefer a lazy beach holiday or you're looking for some excitement, there's a beach near the town of Lagos that'll suit your needs. On the Algarve, you'll find some of Europe's best beaches, with beautiful, soft sands and crystal-clear waters. If you've ever heard of the Algarve, you'll know exactly what we mean when we say that paradise awaits you on the southern coast of Portugal!
Porto & the Douro Valley
Northwestern Portugal, located just an hour away from the Spanish border, is home to the beautiful city of Porto. Stunning restaurants, bars, and nightclubs await visitors in the city's historic center. The Portuguese Baroque capital is filled with cobbled streets, white churches, and blue-domed towers. In the city's Museu Colecao Berardo, you can find work by Hockney and Warhol – just some of the priceless art on permanent display. If you've ever visited Portugal, you'll know exactly what we mean when we say that life in northern Portugal is unforgettable. The climate is mild and the land is fertile, providing the country with a wealth of agricultural produce such as grapes, olives, and tomatoes. In recent years, tourism has become a major contributor to the country's economy, particularly in the area surrounding the Douro Valley, where you'll find some of Europe's most renowned wineries.
The Mountains, Lakes, & Sea
To the east of Portugal sits the magnificent Serra de Macau. Its peaksides are covered in cedro, pine, and eucalyptus trees, offering a spectacular view of Portugal's mainland. The Macau peninsula is located to the southeast of the Serra de Macau, with Sintra, its palaces, and casino close by. Directly west of the Serra de Macau lies the Atlantic Ocean, with its famous surf beaches such as Praia de Canhao, Praia do Francos, and Ponta Delgada serving as our destination for the day. There are plenty more beautiful beaches in the country, so take your time wandering the coastline and finding your perfect spot. You might also want to consider renting a kayak and exploring the inland waterways, where you'll find some isolated beaches and rugged cliffsides that are perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddling. If you'd like to venture into the interior, you'll discover rolling hills, with towns and villages tucked away on their slopes. The climate is temperate, with warm summers and mild winters. Winters are generally dry, and summers are cool. The average annual temperature is 14 degrees, and the country is home to a wealth of animal and plant species.
Where Can I Buy Surf Gear in Portugal?
Surf-N-Waves offers an exclusive range of surf gear designed for students and professionals who want to hit the beach for some surfing lessons or just to catch some waves. Our range is filled with the best brands in the country, such as Billabong, Goggles Bay, and Oceanic, so you'll have no trouble finding what you need. Our head office is located in Lisbon, Portugal's capital city, so our team can easily assist you with your purchases, should you need any help. Just drop us a line at [email protected], and our team will get back to you promptly.
What Cities and Towns Can I Visit In Portugal?
If you've ever been to Portugal, you'll know exactly what we mean when we say that the country is filled with stunning cities and towns. Lisbon is Portugal's capital city and largest metropolis, with an amazing baroque church, the Museu Colecao Berardo, a 16th-century palace, the castles of San Lorenzo and Belenzada, and the Jeronimos Monastery all adding to its appeal. For lovers of history, Art Deco apartments in the city center provide a glimpse into 1930s splendour. If you've ever watched the films of Merchant Ivory, you'll know exactly what we mean when we say that Lisbon is filled with designer boutiques, chic cafes, and bistros. The list of things to do in Lisbon is endless, from visiting museums and galleries to strolling along the city's riverside walkway and popping into its many traditional shops. If you book your stay in advance, you can even tour some of Portugal's most remarkable castles and palaces.
How Long Does It Take To Get To Porto From Lisbon?
The best way to explore Portugal is by car. The scenery as you travel along the country's winding roads is breathtaking, and since there are no trains running along the coast, getting around by bus or boat is difficult. If you've ever driven from Lisbon to Porto and back again, you'll know exactly what we mean when we say that the journey is filled with beautiful views. One of the country's most stunning highways, the A25, runs directly from Lisbon to the Portuguese border, affording you breathtaking views of the ocean as you cruise towards your destination. If you have plenty of time and want to make the journey by public transport, the drive from Lisbon to Porto takes about three and a half hours, depending on traffic. From there, it's another 90 minutes to the border and the end of our Portugal tour.
What Else Can I Do In Portugal?
Besides lounging around on a beach or hitting the links, Portugal's interior is filled with history, castles, and palaces waiting to be explored. Some of the country's finest restaurants are located in Lisbon and Porto, serving regional cuisine with a European twist. Portuguese wine, port, and brandy are all world-class, and can be found on sale at many supermarkets and local groceries. The weather is temperate, with warm summers and mild winters, so you can swim outdoors with impunity. If you visit between October and March, you'll have the chance to see some breathtaking sunsets over the ocean – an experience that lingers in your memory for a lifetime.