What makes it so good?
We’ve come up with 10 reasons why
1. It’s a hidden treasure – relatively undiscovered, the silver coast is an authentic destination, delivering not just great beaches but a superb mix of culture, cuisine, activities and days out.
2. Home to some of Europe’s finest, most natural beaches – the 150 km stretch of Silver Coast from Cascais to Nazare alone provides nearly 40 recognised beaches, all offering clean blue waters, wild sand dunes and Atlantic surf (plus a few that provide shelter for younger children!). Often you’ll feel as though you’re discovering something new.
3. ….it’s not just a place to relax, though – the activites on offer here are enough to satisfy even the most demanding sports enthusiast or restless teenager – diving; surfing; kayaking; windsurfing; go-carting; climbing; mountain-biking – need we go on?
4. The cuisine is some of the finest in Europe – food is part of the culture here, and treating yourself to a night out will do a lot less damage to your wallet than in Spain, France or Italy. Think fresh seafood, suckling pig and mouth-watering cakes – the custard tarts are to die for! – washed down with Portugal’s world-renowned port or madeira. You’ll be amazed, also, by the quality of wines available – Portuguese wines are almost unheard of in Europe.
5. It won’t break the bank. Not only are the villas and houses good value in themselves, they also provide exceptional levels of service, with regular maid and laundry services offered as standard in many properties.
6. … of the warmth of its welcome. Not for the Portuguese the curmudgeonly service you have to endure in much of Southern Europe – you will be welcomed with a smile everywhere you go, and the staff at the residences will go out of their way to make your stay a happy one. English and French is widely-spoken too.
7. The area is rich in culture – take an evening stroll around Obidos, a delightful fortified hill-top village of white-washed walls and terracotta roofs, enclosed by 14th century walls, or visit the eccentric palace of Sintra, whose beautiful, elevated position and woodland setting made it a favorite summer retreat for Portuguese royalty.
8. Its climate. The west coast offers sunny, dry summers – hot enough to top up your tan, but without the worry of the fierce suffocating heat, a particular benefit to families with young children.
9. You can lose yourself exploring the elegant, narrow streets of delightful towns and villages such as Obidos and Tomar – a real escape!
10. There are a whole host of diverse cultural and sporting festivals and events taking place throughout the year – have a look at the events page!
