Beaches
The often-deserted Praia Porto das Barcas beach is practically on our doorstep and is easy to drive or ride to - perfect for romantics and peace lovers.
The Praia da Peralta and Praia do Areal beaches are also pretty relaxed, and only a few minutes’ drive or cycle ride away. For a bit more action as well as nice beach bars, cool nightlife and excellent waterfront restaurants, we recommend a short drive to Praia da Areia Branca.
Whatever you plump for, don’t forget to pack your emcasa beach bag.
Nature
Berlengas archipelago
Ready for the islands? The breathtakingly beautiful Berlengas in the Atlantic Ocean are located in the open sea, 10 km west of Peniche. Berlenga Grande is the largest of the islands and opens to visitors from May to September. On the island, you will find a car-free, uninhabited natural paradise with clear, turquoise waters, beautiful beaches, great hiking trails, unique wildlife and probably Portugal’s most picturesque fort.
It is also a paradise for scuba divers and snorkeling.
Culture
Lourinhã
We concede that there are more exciting places, but laid-back Lourinhã is a gem of authenticity and definitely deserves a visit. As well as being practically on our doorstep, it’s famous as the ‘capital of dinosaurs’ thanks to a host of Late Jurassic discoveries that were made in this area. Go see the dinosaurs at the Dino Park where you’ll even find a Lourinhasaurus!
Óbidos
A picture-postcard medieval town: whitewashed houses, the magnificently decorated Porta de Vila and old town walls all add up to make Óbidos one of Portugal’s prettiest and most popular tourist destinations. It’s just a 25-minute drive away from our place. The journey is always worth it; and not just when the annual International Chocolate Festival is on.
Caldas da Rainha
Not many people know that the Hospital Termal Rainha D. Leonor founded in 1485 by Queen Leonor is the world's oldest, purpose-built, still-functioning thermal spa. It’s said to be great place for fixing rheumatism and back problems – as well as offering blissful relaxation. Also worth seeing are the D. Carlos I park, the town’s colourful fruit and vegetable market and the Bordallo Pinheiro ceramics walk.
Torres Vedras
Always a treat: Torres Vedras is where Pasteis de Feijao, Portugal’s popular and sugary bean-custard tart comes from. The area surrounding the town of 80,000 inhabitants is also home to some very good wine. You’ll find the nightlife lively in the pretty historic centre – which is also worth seeing during the day. A popular attraction is the town’s annual carnival with parades, fireworks, spontaneous concerts and nightly DJ sessions in the streets.
City Life
Lisbon
Portugal’s hip capital is just over an hour from the emcasa. Ideal for a day trip or even a weekend stay – especially when combined with a few extra days of ocean-side relaxation at the emcasa. Getting to Lisbon is easy and inexpensive by bus and Rede Expressos runs an hourly service. However, if you prefer to travel in style, we can organise a limousine.