Family Adventure on Portugal's Costa Vicentina

Coastal Adventures and Culinary Delights in Costa Vicentina

Today was a day of embracing the wild beauty of Portugal's Costa Vicentina, from the thrill of the waves to the charm of local markets and clifftop vistas. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you’re surrounded by such diverse and captivating scenery.

Our morning started in Aljezur with breakfast at Naperon. This cozy spot was the perfect way to fuel up for the day. I opted for a traditional Portuguese pastry and a strong coffee. Klara went for a savory option, while Mateo enjoyed a croissant. The pastries were flaky and delicious, and the coffee gave me the kick I needed to start the day. It's funny, even though I develop tourism apps, sometimes the simple things like a good breakfast are what truly make a place memorable. The friendly atmosphere and delicious food made it a great start to our explorations.


Discover Naperon in Odeceixe: A culinary journey through authentic Portuguese flavors awaits you at this charming restaurant.

After breakfast, we headed to the Mercado Municipal de Aljezur. I always love visiting local markets when we travel; it's a great way to get a feel for the local culture and sample regional products. The market was bustling with activity, locals chatting and vendors selling everything from fresh produce to local cheeses. We picked up some fresh fruit and a few local delicacies, including the region's renowned sweet potatoes, which I've heard so much about. Mateo was fascinated by all the colorful displays, pointing at everything from the fish to the vibrant fruits. Klara, ever the advocate for sustainable living, was keen to find some organic vegetables for our meals. We even found a vendor selling handmade crafts, and Klara bought a beautiful ceramic bowl to add to our collection back home in Potsdam. It’s amazing how a simple market visit can immerse you in the heart of a community.


Explore the Mercado Municipal de Aljezur: A vibrant market filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and authentic Portuguese culture in the heart of Aljezur.

The beauty of Costa Vicentina lies not just in its landscapes, but also in the warmth and authenticity of its people.

Next on our itinerary was Praia do Amado , known as one of the best surfing beaches in the area. I was eager to try to catch some waves. While I wouldn't call myself a surfer, I do enjoy giving it a try, and I thought Mateo might enjoy watching. The beach was stunning, with dramatic cliffs and golden sand. The waves were indeed impressive, and there were plenty of surfers out there, riding the swells with skill. I rented a board and, after a few wobbly attempts, managed to stand up for a few exhilarating moments. Mateo was thrilled, cheering me on from the shore with Klara. Even though the water was a bit chilly, the thrill of catching a wave was worth it. It was so refreshing to spend some time in the Atlantic, feeling the power of the ocean. I have to admit, I wiped out quite a few times, providing Mateo with endless amusement. It was a great reminder that sometimes, the best travel moments are the ones where you let go and embrace the unexpected.


Discover the stunning Praia do Amado in Aljezur, Portugal, where golden sands meet exhilarating surf and breathtaking natural beauty.

After our surfing adventure, we were all quite hungry, so we drove to Carrapateira for lunch at Costa Alentejana. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. We sat outside on the terrace, enjoying the stunning views of the coastline. I ordered the grilled fish, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful, while Klara opted for a vegetarian dish made with local vegetables. Mateo, of course, went for the pasta. The food was delicious, and the views were simply breathtaking. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel after our morning of surfing and exploring. The restaurant had a laid-back, friendly vibe, and we felt right at home. As we ate, we watched the waves crashing against the cliffs, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful place.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Costa Alentejana in Zambujeira do Mar – where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to explore Pontal da Carrapateira. This scenic spot offers incredible views of the coastline and is known for its hiking trails. We decided to take a leisurely walk along the cliffs, enjoying the panoramic vistas. The views were simply stunning, with the rugged coastline stretching out as far as the eye could see. Mateo was fascinated by the wildflowers growing along the trail, and Klara, with her architect's eye, was captivated by the way the landscape blended seamlessly with the natural environment. We walked for a couple of hours, stopping frequently to take photos and soak in the beauty. The fresh sea air and the sound of the waves were incredibly invigorating. It was a perfect way to appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of the Costa Vicentina. As we walked, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. These are the moments that create lasting memories.


Explore the stunning Pontal da Carrapateira, a scenic spot on Portugal's Costa Vicentina, known for its breathtaking views and rich natural beauty.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Aljezur for dinner at O Sacas. This restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and traditional Alentejo cuisine, was the perfect way to end our day of exploration. The restaurant had a rustic, authentic feel, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I ordered the fish stew, which was hearty and flavorful, while Klara chose a vegetarian dish made with local cheeses and vegetables. Mateo, predictably, opted for the grilled chicken. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We lingered over dinner, savoring each bite and sharing stories from our day. As we ate, we reflected on all the incredible experiences we had shared, from the thrill of surfing to the beauty of the coastal trails. It was a day filled with adventure, discovery, and connection, and I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience it all with my family.


Experience exquisite Portuguese cuisine with ocean views at O Sacas in Zambujeira do Mar.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the coastline, heading to Pedra das Gaivotas and hiking the Trilho Odeceixe a Zambujeira do Mar. I'm looking forward to discovering more hidden gems and experiencing the natural beauty of this incredible region. Maybe we'll even stop by Magic Cactus for a drink in the evening. The kids are already excited about another day of adventure. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel and share these experiences with my family and all of you.

Back at our eco-friendly accommodation, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much this trip has already enriched our lives. It’s not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with nature, experiencing different cultures, and creating lasting memories with my family. Even though I miss some of the comforts of Potsdam, like my favorite hiking spots in the Brandenburg countryside, I know that these experiences are shaping us in ways we can’t even fully understand yet.

As I sign off for the night, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement for what tomorrow will bring. Costa Vicentina, you’ve captured our hearts, and we can’t wait to see what other treasures you have in store for us.

Until tomorrow,
Juan