Portugal is home to world-famous natural wonders like Ponta da Piedade in Lagos, Praia da Marinha, and the iconic Benagil Cave — and yes, they’re absolutely worth visiting whether you’re traveling through or lucky enough to live here.
But beyond the spotlight, there are other breathtaking places that might not be completely off the radar, yet still feel like a hidden escape.
In this article, we’re sharing 5 stunning spots in Portugal that deserve a place on your itinerary — especially if you’re craving beauty with fewer crowds:
1. Cacela Velha (Algarve)
A tiny whitewashed village perched above the Ria Formosa lagoon, with panoramic views and a secluded beach that feels untouched. Magical during golden hour.
🌿 Why it’s special:
- Unspoiled Beauty: The village has preserved its traditional architecture and charm. You’ll find cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses with blue trim, and a serene little church — all framed by sweeping ocean views.
- Breathtaking Views: From the village’s hilltop fortifications, you get panoramic views over the Ria Formosa Natural Park and the golden sandbanks that appear and disappear with the tides.
- Secluded Beaches: Below Cacela Velha, you can walk (during low tide or take a short boat ride) to reach Praia da Fábrica, a quiet, pristine beach that often shows up on lists of Portugal’s most beautiful — yet remains uncrowded.
- Perfect for slow travel: It’s not about attractions here — it’s about the stillness, the soft sea breeze, and the simplicity of Portuguese coastal life.
🧡 Ideal for:
- Couples seeking a romantic, peaceful escape
- Nature lovers and photographers
- Anyone craving slow, soulful travel
☕ What to do:
- Stroll through the village and enjoy a drink or lunch with sea views at one of the few quaint cafés
- Visit the small 18th-century Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assunção
- Walk down to the beach and spend a few hours in silence and sun
- Catch the golden hour — the view from Cacela Velha at sunset is truly magical
2. Marés Pool (Leça da Palmeira)
Designed by Portugal’s most celebrated modern architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, the Piscinas de Marés was built between 1960 and 1966 when Siza was in his early thirties.
It’s one of his earliest and most iconic works, harmoniously crafted to integrate into the rocky coastline near Matosinhos in Porto—even blurring the boundaries between natural and built environment.
National Monument & Architectural Fame
Since 2011, the complex has been officially classified as a Monumento Nacional.
It’s the only Portuguese structure featured in 100 Buildings of the 20th Century, chosen by 23 of the world’s leading architects.
In 2017, it was added to Portugal’s tentative UNESCO World Heritage list, alongside other Siza landmarks.
Access is via a gently sloping ramp from street level that absorbs the view of the ocean—so visitors hear the sea before seeing it.
As you emerge from the ramp, the pools and ocean horizon unfold naturally, creating a sensory transition from urban to coastal landscape.
Two Saltwater Pools for All Ages
The complex includes:
A larger pool for adults and a smaller pool for children.
Changing rooms, showers, and a relaxing bar/lounge area. All built into natural rock depressions and replenished with fresh sea water at each tide.
Seasonal opening: usually from late May through mid-September
Hours: typically open daily from 09:00 to 19:00 during the summer months
Visit Tips:
Don’t miss the golden hour—late afternoon creates stunning reflections and soft shadows across the pools and ocean.
Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy tranquility and better lighting.
Combine it with a visit to nearby Boa Nova Tea House, another Siza masterpiece along the coast.
Pack light and bring water shoes: the rock formations and concrete steps can be slippery when wet.
3. Praia da Ursa (Sintra)
Praia da Ursa is a slice of untamed beauty tucked into the dramatic cliffs of the Sintra‑Cascais Natural Park, just north of Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
It’s often hailed as one of Portugal’s most breathtaking yet under‑visited beaches.
Why It’s Special
- Wild and Secluded: Praia da Ursa feels like a secret—rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations dominate the landscape, creating a sense of raw, unspoiled wilderness.
- Bear Rock Legend: Named after the iconic Rocha da Ursa, a giant sea stack that resembles a bear cradling its cub, entwined with ancient local folklore
- Photographer’s Dream: With golden sands framed by towering sea stacks and crashing waves, every angle is picture-perfect—especially at sunset.
Getting there:
Follow the N247 road toward Cabo da Roca and park near the gravel road marked “Ursa.” From there, a narrow dirt trail leads down to the beach in about 30–45 minutes.
Two trails exist: Trail 1 is scenic and zigzags; Trail 2 is more direct. Both converge partway down.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Steep & Challenging Trail: The path is uneven and slippery—sturdy footwear and careful ascent/descent are essential. Not recommended in wet weather.
- No Facilities: No bathrooms, cafés, rentals, or lifeguards. Bring water, snacks, and pack out any trash
- Strong Currents: Swimming is generally not advised due to rough seas and cold water (~17–18 °C even in summer)
- Cliff Hazards: Keep clear of cliff edges—the area is prone to rockfalls. Always stay safe
- Naturist Spot: Praia da Ursa is known for unofficial naturism—though swimsuits are perfectly fine!
Who It’s For
Ideal for adventurous souls, photographers, and anyone craving quiet beauty far from tourist crowds. Not ideal for families with young children or those who struggle with steep hikes.
Each visit feels like discovering a secret piece of coastline.
Praia da Ursa offers an immersive blend of raw coastal beauty, adventure, and serenity. If you love discovering places where nature still holds all the charm, it’s a must-add to your Portugal itinerary.
The journey is part of the reward—and the views at the bottom are unforgettable.
4. Poço Azul Natural Pool (Gerês Natural Park)
Nestled in the Serra do Gerês near the tiny village of Ermida, Poço Azul is a stunning emerald-green natural pool fed by the Rio Conho.
Though commonly called “Blue Well,” its waters lean more emerald in hue—crystal‑clear and deep, perfect for a refreshing swim after the trek.
The Trail to Poço Azul
- Distance: ~8–9 km round trip (4–4.5 km each way), depending on start point.
- Duration: Around 3 hours including short stops; plan for ~4–5 hours including relaxing time at the pool.
- Difficulty: Moderate—not technically hard, but unmarked and requires GPS/map due to lack of signage
Trail start options:
- Miradouro das Rocas — adds ~2.5 km on each side
- Parking near Cascata do Arado — shorter main trail (~4.5 km each way)
The path passes through scenic spots: Fonte das Letras, Curral da Malhadoura, Curral dos Portos, and the Tribela turning point where you’ll follow a shepherd’s trail to descend into the river Conho valley and reach the pool
At Poço Azul:
- A serene and deep plunge pool with clear, emerald-green water—ideal for a multidimensional swim or quiet contemplation
- Surrounded by large, smooth boulders perfect for sunbathing or resting.
- Reception is quiet—just the sound of flowing water and birdsong. Though a beautiful swimming spot, it’s small: once over ~10 people, it can feel busy
Best Time to Visit:
- Ideal season: Late spring to early summer (May through early July) when flows are strong and the pool is full
- Peak times to avoid: Weekends and holidays—especially in July/August—when even a dozen people can make the space feel crowded
- Pro tip: Start early (before 9 a.m.) to enjoy quiet shade, cooler air, and near-solitude at the pool
Poço Azul is a perfect blend of quiet adventure, natural beauty, and refreshing simplicity. The trail rewards each step with changing landscapes and hidden springs.
On arrival, the luminous water, the forest setting, and near-solitude combine to create a deeply restorative experience.
If you’re drawn to Portugal’s wild heart, it’s a must-add to your Gerês itinerary.
What to Pack & Tips:
Safety: No facilities or lifeguards—swim with care, respect the environment, and don’t venture into off-limit areas.
Essentials: Hiking shoes, water, snacks, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, and a small trash bag to pack out what you bring
Navigation: Trail is unmarked—bringing GPS or GPX files is a must
Fitness level: Not a technical hike, but watch for steep or rocky segments and manage ascent on return journey (often tougher on the way back)
5. Azenhas do Mar (near Sintra)
Azenhas do Mar — literally “Watermills of the Sea” — is a stunning coastal village nestled in the Sintra‑Cascais Natural Park, about 15 minutes from Sintra and under 1 hour by car from Lisbon.
What gives it that poetic name? Originally, a powerful stream moved watermills that led right into the cliffs and ocean — hence azenhas—before it was swept out to the sea
Why You’ll Love It:
- A postcard-worthy cliffside setting: Whitewashed houses with terracotta roofs tumble down the cliff toward a tiny beach and natural seawater pool, against the bold deep-blue Atlantic
- Seawater tidal pool: At the base of a cliffside restaurant, a rock-carved pool is filled each high tide—ideal for a refreshing yet safe swim
- Lifeguarded beach in summer: Sandy only at low tide (~30 m wide), and it disappears at high tide. Lifeguards are on duty seasonally near the restaurant terrace
Things to See & Do
- Miradouro das Azenhas do Mar: A sweeping cliff‑top viewpoint offering iconic shots of the village, pool, and ocean—perfect at golden hour
- Explore the village: Wander its maze of terraced narrow streets; admire traditional tile‑detailed façades from the 1930s–40s “Português Suave” architectural movement
- Swim in the ocean pool and relax on the beach at low tide.
- Stroll to nearby beaches: Walk 15 minutes to Praia da Aguda, or continue over rocky tidal zones to Praia do Magoito. Another 20-minute stroll leads to Praia das Maçãs to the south
Local Flavors
Baobezi: Cliff‑top cafe for wine or snacks—perfect at sunset
Azenhas do Mar Restaurante overlooks the natural pool—ideal for seafood lovers. Expect cataplana, grilled sardines, octopus, and bacalhau, paired with crisp Vinho Verde or local Colares wines
Other adorable options include:
Adega das Azenhas: Traditional Portuguese menu with ocean views.
Azenhas do Mar blends romantic beauty, traditional Portuguese charm, and coastal serenity—all within reach of Sintra and Lisbon.
It’s a favorite for creatives, photographers, and solo explorers seeking chill vibes off the beaten path yet with just the right amenities
Recommended Visit Sequence
- Arrive mid-afternoon and explore the whitewashed alleys.
- Head to the Miradouro for dreamy ocean views.
- Swim in the tidal pool during low tide.
- Savor seafood at Azenhas do Mar Restaurante or Adega das Azenhas.
- Walk along coastal trails to Praia da Aguda or Praia das Maçãs if time allows.
6. Porto Covo (Alentejo)
Nestled along Portugal’s southwestern coast, Porto Covo is a picturesque fishing village renowned for its pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and tranquil atmosphere.
Part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, it offers a serene escape from bustling tourist spots.
Beaches and Natural Beauty
Porto Covo boasts several stunning beaches, each with its unique charm:
- Praia da Samoqueira: A secluded cove surrounded by dramatic cliffs, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Praia dos Buizinhos: A small, sheltered beach ideal for families and those seeking tranquility.
- Praia Grande de Porto Covo: The main beach, easily accessible and popular among visitors.
- Praia do Salto: A naturist beach known for its unspoiled beauty.
- Ilha do Pessegueiro: An island accessible by boat, featuring Roman ruins and a 16th-century fort.
The village is also a gateway to the Rota Vicentina, a network of hiking trails offering breathtaking coastal views.
History and Culture
Porto Covo’s history dates back to Roman times, with evidence of fish-salting industries on Pessegueiro Island.
The village’s name derives from “covo,” a traditional lobster trap. Key historical sites include:
- Fort of Pessegueiro: A 15th-16th century military fortification located on the mainland.
- Fort of Pessegueiro Island: A similar fort on the island, now in ruins.
- Church of Porto Covo: A Baroque and Neoclassical church with austere lines, reflecting regional architectural styles.
The village also celebrates the Nossa Senhora da Soledade festival in late August, honoring its patron saint with processions and cultural events.
Local Flavors and Experiences
Porto Covo offers a taste of Alentejo’s culinary delights:
- Seafood: Fresh catches from the Atlantic, including octopus and cuttlefish.
- Local Wines: The Alentejo region is known for its robust red wines.
- Traditional Dishes: Hearty meals like açorda (bread soup) and ensopado de borrego (lamb stew).
Visitors can also explore nearby wineries, such as Herdade Canal Caveira, offering wine tastings and tapas.
Getting There
Porto Covo is approximately 2 hours south of Lisbon by car. From Sines, it’s a 20-minute drive along the coast. Public transportation options include buses from Lisbon and Sines.
Porto Covo is a haven for those seeking natural beauty, rich history, and authentic Portuguese culture.
Whether you’re hiking the Rota Vicentina, lounging on secluded beaches, or savoring local cuisine, this charming village offers a memorable coastal escape.
7. Porto Moniz Natural Tools (Madeira)
Located on Madeira’s rugged northwest coast, Porto Moniz is renowned for its unique natural swimming pools formed by volcanic lava.
These pools offer a distinctive and safe swimming experience, surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery.
What Makes Them Special
The pools are naturally filled with crystal-clear seawater, constantly replenished by the Atlantic Ocean’s tides.
This ensures a refreshing and dynamic swimming environment. The volcanic rock formations create a series of interconnected pools, varying in size and depth, catering to swimmers of all ages and preferences.
Amenities & Facilities
- Opening Hours: Open year-round; summer hours are from 9 AM to 7 PM, and winter hours from 9 AM to 5 PM.
- Entrance Fees:
- Adults: €3
- Children under 3: Free
- Discounts available for residents and students.
- Facilities:
- Changing rooms and showers
- Sun loungers and parasols for hire
- Lifeguards on duty
- First aid station
- Playground for children
How to Get There
Porto Moniz is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Funchal, Madeira’s capital. The journey offers scenic views of the island’s mountainous terrain and coastal landscapes. Public buses are also available but may take longer due to fewer direct routes.
Tips for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the pools in a more relaxed setting.
- What to Bring:
- Swimwear and towel
- Water shoes for comfort on rocky surfaces
- Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection
- Nearby Attractions:
- Madeira Aquarium
- Fort of São João Baptista
- Santa Viewpoint
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Porto Moniz’s natural swimming pools offer a memorable experience amidst Madeira’s stunning landscapes.
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