Portugal has some of the most beautiful secluded beaches in Europe, particularly in the Algarve region where secluded coves have been carved into the magnificent honey-colored cliffs along the coast. Here are 10 secluded beaches in Portugal that offer holidaymakers the perfect escape from the bustling resort towns. Forget what you know about the beaches in the south of Portugal. Sure, they’re pretty awesome, but Portugal has so much more to offer. With Portugal fast becoming known for some of the best surfing beaches in Europe, it’s time to look past the likes of the Algarve region in the south. Take note of Praia do Norte just outside the fishing village of Nazaré in central Portugal as one of the top surf spots in Portugal. If you’re a fan of mammoth waves, this is the perfect beach for you. If not, steer clear. As we said, Praia do Norte is home to some of the largest waves in the world thanks to the huge channel of deep water just offshore pointing directly to the coast which in turn, directs the Atlantic swells straight onto Praia do Norte where the waves arrive in full force. The small village of Nazaré makes for the perfect place to sample fresh seafood. Another Cascais beach in Lisbon, the Carcavelos beach has all the things you could expect a beach to have – an amazing nightlife, great cafes and restaurants, and an ample amount of water sports to pick from. Whether you’re traveling with children or with your special someone, you’ll find a way to keep yourself entertained at the Carcavelos beach in Lisbon. There are even a water sports school and a space to play beach volleyball and beach soccer. If you are wondering how far is Lisbon from the beach, it’s a quick 20-minute drive. These were the parting words from a man who had just Airbnb’ed his camper van to us. With his hand-drawn map, we headed south from Lisbon in search of the best-hidden beaches in Portugal.

We had one goal on this 12-day trip in our new campervan, to make it to Lagos and back to Lisbon.

Once we arrived in Lagos we realized it had nothing compared to the beauty of the past 8 days that we had been immersed in. We spent two hours in the town and headed back the way we had come.

source