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If you still don’t know where you’re going to spend your vacation, or if you’re looking for a destination for a getaway from weekend here’s a suggestion: São Martinho do Porto. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches of Portugal, stands out for its shell-like shape and calm, crystal-clear waters.
Located about 109 km from Lisbon, a 1h20 drive away, this is a place especially suitable for families. With several tourist attractions in the area, you won’t get bored. In addition, the flavors of the sea promise to make your mouth water.
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A brief look at the past
Today, São Martinho do Porto is one of the best-known destinations on the Silver Coast. But it wasn’t always like this. According to National Geographic, the old fishing village was closely linked to Alcobaça, serving as a seaport.
For a long time, the Monastery of Alcobaça (UNESCO World Heritage Site) attracted many visitors to the region. However, from the end of the century. XIX, the shell-shaped beach began to stand out in its own right, attracting the attention of bourgeois and nobles alike.
According to the website “Portugal de Norte a Sul” (Portugal from North to South), King Carlos I is said to have visited the site and surrendered to its charms to the point of allegedly saying that he had never seen anything like it. In fact, vestiges of hotels and art nouveau buildings bear witness to the glory of the summers of yesterday.
What’s so special about São Martinho do Porto?
With a length of approximately 3 km, São Martinho do Porto beach has become famous for its unique characteristics, especially its shell shape. This peculiar and photogenic aspect is due, in particular, to the geological conditions of the region.
According to information from “Portugal de Norte a Sul”, and in a simple and straightforward way, the current bay is the last vestige of a gulf that existed until the 19th century. XVI and stretched as far as Alfeizerão. Today, it is protected by rocky cliffs and communicates with the Atlantic through an opening of a few meters.
This scenery provides natural protection against strong currents, creating the necessary conditions for water sports such as kayaking and stand up paddle. So it’s not surprising that it’s a popular beach for families.
What to visit in São Martinho do Porto?
If you feel like staying longer than a day, along with the art of toasting in the sun, you can always take the opportunity to visit other local tourist attractions. There are several points of interest in and around the small but welcoming village.
São Martinho do Porto Lighthouse
The Morro de Santo António Lighthouse, as it is also known, is located on top of a hill.
The site is not difficult to access, but it’s best to pay attention when walking the 400 meters along the cliff tops.
In the end, you’ll see that it’s worth it. Well, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the bay, where every photo looks like a postcard.
Capela de Santana
Access is difficult, but the view is worth the ‘sacrifice’. The Chapel of Santana, in Salir do Porto, was built in the 19th century. XII.
After being abandoned, it was rebuilt and today attracts devotees and curious tourists.
Salir do Porto
Don’t return to Lisbon without seeing the impressive Salir do Porto dune. At around 50 meters high, this is the largest sand dune in Portugal.
Alcobaça Monastery
From São Martinho do Porto to the Monastery of Alcobaça, it’s a relatively short 20-minute drive.
So you have no excuse to miss a visit to the monastic temple. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was founded in the 19th century. XII.
The Monastery of Alcobaça is still known for being the eternal home of the tragic love of Pedro and Inês de Castro.
Many attractions to visit, unique features and calm waters make São Martinho do Porto a popular destination among the Portuguese. Natural beauty in shell form!