Where We Stayed: Coastal Style & Vineyard Calm

We were lucky enough to stay at Areias do Seixo, a stunning, design‑led property right on the coast. It offers a selection of beautiful rooms and villas, many with views over the dunes and ocean. The style is modern and eco‑conscious but very warm and inviting, with firepits, cosy corners and a real emphasis on wellbeing and nature.

Areias do Seixo would work brilliantly for multi‑generational families or small groups, thanks to its spacious villas, or as a very special hideaway for couples who want somewhere a bit different from a traditional resort.

We also visited Noah Surf House in Santa Cruz, a very cool, laid‑back property right on the beach. It has a mix of rooms and stylish villas and would be perfect for couples, friends or families who love the idea of waking up to the ocean, with surf quite literally on the doorstep. It is popular and sells out quickly in peak times, which is no surprise.

Our second stay was at Valverde Santar, a serene, vineyard‑side property that felt like a complete escape. Waking up surrounded by vines, with that sense of calm and space, really showed off the slower, more rural side of Central Portugal. It is ideal for those who want to unwind, linger over good wine and food, and explore nearby villages at a gentle pace.

Food & Wine: A Serious Highlight

Food and wine are an absolute passion here, and it showed in every meal:

We visited several of the region’s best vineyards, including Taboadella, tasting excellent local wines and learning more about the different terroirs of Central Portugal.

The wine culture felt down‑to‑earth but proud, with a strong focus on local grapes and sustainable practices.

A real pinch‑me moment was dinner at Mesa de Lemos, a Michelin‑starred restaurant led by chef Diogo Rocha (one of the judges on Portugal’s MasterChef). The food was outstanding: creative, beautifully presented and rooted in local ingredients. It was easily one of the best meals I have ever had, and the setting itself was elegant yet understated.

If you have clients who travel for food and wine, Central Portugal is a destination they should seriously consider.

Surf, Sea & Record‑Breaking Waves

This area is also a dream for anyone interested in the Atlantic coast:

We visited Nazaré, famous for its record‑breaking big wave surfing. We were fortunate enough to meet Sebastian Steudtner, the current world record holder for the largest wave ever surfed, which was a real “wow” moment.

A boat trip out behind the big surf gave us a very different perspective on the coastline and the power of the Atlantic.

Between Santa Cruz and Nazaré, the region offers a mix of relaxed beach life and serious surf culture.

Gardens, Villages & Culture

It was not all about the coastline and vineyards:

In Santar, we visited Vila Jardim, a beautiful, community‑driven garden project that brings together a series of local gardens throughout the village. It is a really unusual and inspiring initiative, where residents collaborate to create something greater than the sum of its parts.

We also spent time in the city of Viseu, which I found really charming: cobbled streets, interesting street art, fountains and squares, art galleries and a beautiful cathedral. It has an easy, walkable feel and would make a lovely base for a few nights.

Why Central Portugal Is Worth Considering

Central Portugal felt like a region that quietly over‑delivers:

Easy access from both Lisbon and Porto

Authentic towns and villages, not overly touristy

Excellent food and wine, with genuinely memorable dining

A choice of coastal stays and peaceful vineyard retreats

Unique experiences like Nazaré’s big waves, community gardens and Michelin‑starred dining

If you or your clients are looking for something a little different to the Algarve or the classic city break, Central Portugal offers a blend of coast, countryside, culture and gastronomy that works brilliantly for couples, friends and grown‑up families.

If you would like to know more about the specific hotels, vineyards or experiences I tried on this trip, I would be delighted to share first‑hand insights and help you build a tailor‑made itinerary in this beautiful part of Portugal.