If you want to discover Southeast Asia without having to fly to the other side of the world, you have the opportunity to visit this beautiful fishing village in Portugal. It is located just an hour from Lisbon and is a true haven of peace, away from the usual hustle and bustle in other much more touristy places in the country.
And, despite the passage of time, This small town has managed to preserve its most traditional charm. Located in Comporta, in the heart of the Troia Peninsula, and bathed by the waters of the Atlantic, it is a great place for a getaway.
The quietest and most beautiful fishing town in Portugal
Although Carrasqueira It lacks the paradisiacal beaches typical of the Algarve, its charm has nothing to envy of the most famous destinations in the region. Located in the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve, this town has one of the most unique fishing ports on the Iberian Peninsula, built entirely with wood between the 1950s and 1960s, following the popular architectural style of the time.
These constructions, known as stilt houses, are characteristic of distant places in Portugal and transport visitors to Southeast Asia with their irregular boards and piles. The need to face the constant low tides in the estuary led the local inhabitants to build this unique stilt port in Europe, which has become a prominent place to watch the sunset.
In this picturesque port, there are also numerous wooden cabins belonging to local fishermen, which add an even more extraordinary touch to the place. In addition, almost every day the fishermen themselves sell their catch at the pier, where you can buy fresh products typical of the area.
Carrasqueira is part of the parish of Comporta, along with six other towns, and offers the opportunity to enjoy delicious lingueirão rice, especially on its main street, Avenida dos Pescadores. However, the highlight is its sunsets over the stilt port.
The best way to access the palatial port of Carrasqueira to watch the sunset It is by car, and the most recommended route is to take the N-253 highway that connects Alcácer do Sal with Comporta. Before reaching Comporta, there is a sign indicating the way to Carrasqueira, about 10 minutes by car. Upon arriving in Carrasqueira, you simply have to follow Avenida dos Pescadores, which leads directly to the stilt port.
Hidden places that are a treasure
In addition to this beautiful fishing town, Portugal is home to true gemsmany of which do not appear in tourist guides.
Piódão, one of the historic villages of Portugal, is located in the Sierra de Açor. Unlike the other 12, this one lacks a castle and walls, as its peculiar location on the mountainside makes it a natural fortress. Its charming streets and slate houses are its distinctive features, with the spotless white Mother Church and St. Peter's Chapel being notable points of interest.
In the Algarve, one of the best known in Portugal, is located Carvoeiro, a charming fishing village built along a rocky cliff known as the dry algar, where caves, grottoes and natural trails are formed. Getting there is simple: simply follow the wooden walkways from the parish of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación.
Azenhas do Mar, a charming town suspended between the sea and the sky, was a holiday destination for Portuguese monarchs in the past. Today, it is an image worthy of a postcard, with its houses staggered along the cliff, creating a waterfall effect that flows into the Atlantic. The bay, where the ocean pool of the Azenhas do Mar restaurant is located, adds a special touch to its beauty. Located less than an hour's drive from Lisbon, it is also known for its vineyards planted in sandy soil.
Despite being recognized as one of the most beautiful and tourist cities in Portugal, Porto keeps a little-known treasure: its beaches. Among these, stands out the Playa de Miramar, home of the Chapel of Senhor da Piedra, a small chapel built on a rock near the sea. However, its origin and reason for being there remain shrouded in mystery, fueled by numerous local legends.
He Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park It is presented as an ideal option for a getaway of several days. During this trip, stopping in Vila Nova de Milfontes is a must, as it is one of the areas least frequented by tourists. On the other hand, the Bacalhôa Buddha Eden, with approximately 35 hectares of area, stands as the largest oriental garden in Europe.
As you can see, Portugal is a fascinating country. Do you dare to discover it this 2024? Ideal for a family vacation!