The Silver Coast – or Costa de Prata – is something of a hidden treasure. Once the favourite holiday destination of the Portuguese royal family, the region has started to become more popular with locals and tourists alike over the last few years.

It is often referred to as “the Real Portugal” and the friendly people are resolutely proud of its incredible natural beauty, historic buildings and traditional rural ways of life. The name refers to the coastline that stretches from Lisbon north to Nazaré near Porto, the country’s second city. The A1, Portugal’s major road artery, connects it with those two biggest urban hubs.

Unlike some parts of the Algarve and the Spanish Costas – which have been scarred by modern high-rise apartment blocks and hotels – the Silver Coast’s golden beaches, lush forests, national parks, and lagoons are protected from over-development by stringent planning laws.

The attitude in the region is extremely laid back and the climate is wonderfully clement; the temperature hardly ever reaches the extreme highs that sometimes hit areas further south. This makes it the ideal place for all kinds of recreational activities. The beaches are a big draw: whether you just want to sunbathe and relax or prefer something more active, such as surfing, sailing, or jet skiing. While the countryside offers superb opportunities for hiking and mountain biking, and is home to some stunning golf courses.

As for the food! You could easily plan your entire day around eating. In fact, I think most people do; with lunch and dinner being major daily events. It’s the opposite of fast food here, with delicious traditional dishes being prepared with passion, love and care.

If that wasn’t enough: the cost of living is incredibly low and it is safe and not unusual for people of all ages to walk around at all times of the day or night.

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