Silver Coast, Portugal
The Silver Coast is a stunning stretch of coastal towns and beaches on the western side of Portugal, neighbouring the Atlantic Ocean.
The region’s beauty remains largely unknown and therefore untouched by tourism, meaning those who visit can enjoy the extraordinary “silver” sand. Pristine clean beaches, Europe’s best surfing destinations, and championship golf courses make this a prime destination for holidaymakers to discover, and return again and again.
The Silver Coast is not just sandy beaches; between Peniche and just south of Porto you’ll discover everything from mountain views, traditional Portuguese villages, some of Europe’s best golf courses, extreme water-sports and friendly locals.
Golf
The area is blessed with four championship golf courses, all of which provide their own unique challenges.
The most notable is West Cliffs, which is currently rated second best course in Portugal, and 15th in Europe. Set along the dunes of the beach, the design is impressive and challenges even the best golfers. westcliffs.com
Royal Obidos has hosted the Open de Portugal on the European Tour for the past two seasons, and is a fantastic golf course, accompanied by a strikingly designed five star hotel. royalobidos.com
Praia D’el Rey Golf Course is set on the resort itself, and the holes meander their way around the plethora of villas and houses which line the fairways, with some of the signature holes set amongst the dunes and ruins by the beach. praia-del-rey.com
Bom Successo is equally as beautiful and challenging as the other three courses, and has privileged views over the lagoon and Atlantic Ocean. bomsucesso.net
Watersports
Owing to the Atlantic Ocean’s seasonal winds and waves, the Silver Coast has become the premier destination for European surfers, providing year round waves of sufficient size to challenge the most accomplished surfers in the world. Most of whom flock here in the Autumn, when the waves are said to be at their very best. Kite Surfing, Bodyboarding, Jet-skiing and sand boarding are also common, and equipment can be rented on most beaches, including Praia D’el Rey, Peniche, Baleal.
There are also numerous surf schools for those wishing to learn to surf. surfingsilvercoast.com , penichesurfcamp.com
Tennis
Praia D’el Rey has numerous tennis courts available for hire, to allow you to practice or test your game whilst enjoying the excellent conditions of the Portuguese weather.
Marriott Praia D’el Rey
The Marriott Hotel on the Praia D’el Rey resort has a combination of swimming pools, range of kids activities along with a fully functioning spa and treatments centre. There are numerous bars and restaurant within the complex, which underwent £4m investment a couple of years ago.
Royal Obidos Hotel & Spa
Designed by the world renowned Philippe Starck, the boutique five star hotel stands out against the green of the woodland and golf course which surrounds the magnificently designed and appointed structure, which is also very much in keeping with the residences. A luxury pool looks out over the ocean, and a full schedule of spa treatments are available to guests and visitors alike.