Portugal is generally known as a surfer's paradise. But especially the west coast of Portugal inspires with countless spectacular beaches that look like they're painted. Whether you are an epicurean, adventurer or explorer; the west coast captivates with its southern flair and impressive cities. Experts from Victor's Portugal Malveira-Guincho reveal their absolute insider tips!

Praia da Cabana do Pescador, Costa da Caparica

The Costa da Caparica south of Lisbon shines with its fine, almost white sandy beach. It is not for nothing that Praia da Cabana is also considered the most beautiful beach in Portugal. Individual beach sections flow into each other here and form a stretch of over 26 kilometres in total. Especially locals love the coast with its numerous beach bars and restaurants.

Praia do Guincho

Strong winds and high waves make Praia do Guincho a paradise for surfers. But beach lovers also enjoy the sun, the cool breeze and relax in the fine sand. In the midst of a beautiful landscape, the white sand dunes impress against the backdrop of the Sintra Mountains. Almost 60 years ago, the dreamlike scenery even served as a filming location for the James Bond film "On Her Majesty's Secret Service".

Praia Grande, Colares in Sintra

The sandy beach definitely lives up to its name "Praia Grande", meaning big sandy beach. But next to the kilometre-long coastline, another highlight awaits: one of the largest seawater swimming pools in Europe. With a length of approximately 100 metres, it is an Eldorado for travellers who also like to swim a round in the sea. Surfers and bodyboarders also get their money's worth on this stretch of coast. On the southern section of the beach, travellers also make a discovery of a special kind: dinosaurs have left eleven clearly recognisable footprints on the rock faces.

Praia da Ursa, Colares, Sintra

It gets romantic at the Praia da Ursa. The beach can only be reached via a dirt road followed by a steep winding footpath. There, visitors will find a quiet, secluded sandy beach with a beautiful landscape dominated by huge rock formations. The beach owes its name to a rock whose shape is reminiscent of the shape of a bear. Nearby is Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

Praia de Carcavelos, Carcavelos

Framed by the São Julião da Barra fortress, Praia de Carcavelos forms the largest sandy beach on the coast off Lisbon. This popular beach attracts locals and tourists alike. Families with small children enjoy the less stormy waves of the Atlantic and active holidaymakers also feel at home here. As surfing beginners or bodyboarders, they can ride their first waves or play beach volleyball and football. Restaurants, bars and cafés provide the necessary catering for the beach day and invite you to spend pleasant hours in the sun.