Water Sports in Portugal
Northern Portugal boasts some of the best spots for inland water sports – kayaking, canoeing and canyoning are popular thanks to an abundance of lakes, lagoons, reservoirs and waterfalls. Just south of the regional capital Porto, the UNESCO-protected Arouca Geopark is considered one of the best locations in the country for white water rafting.
For a more sedate, tranquil experience the calm waters of the Castelo de Bode reservoir on the outskirts of enchanting Tomar are ideal for paddle-boarding and canoeing, whilst the Aguieira reservoir is a popular destination for fresh-water fishing, sailing and rowing. Indeed, many Olympic rowing teams use the Aguieira as a winter training ground, thanks to its proximity to the UNESCO-protected city of Coimbra.
For would-be adrenalin junkies, the surf schools at Espinho are perfect for surfing and windsurfing newbies, with expert, hands-on teachers and small, friendly classes. If you’re a seasoned pro, the country’s unique geographical position on the west coast of Europe makes Portugal a surfer’s paradise. Nazare and Peniche are world famous surfing centres – blessed with year-around consistent swells and a vibrant surf culture.
Not to be outdone, the capital Lisbon has several sensational surf beaches close-by. The old fishing village of Ericeira became Europe’s first ‘World Surfing Reserve’ – chosen for its fine sands, its challenging waves, and the town’s special place in the surfing history of the Iberian Peninsula, which dates back to the early 1970’s.
Similarly Sagres, with its exposed location on the far southwestern tip of the Algarve, has been a mecca for water sports enthusiasts for over fifty years. Its powerful waves and laid-back atmosphere still attract old-school surfers and kiteboarders from all across the world.
