Sites and Sights of Portugal

Marcus Leach and family explore the beautiful contrasts of Portugal and the variety of excellent campsites along the way

Portugal is a land of contrasts, where golden beaches meet rugged mountains and vibrant cities are just a stone's throw from tranquil countryside. All of this combined makes it an excellent year-round touring destination. 

During our recent family travels, using the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s European network, we discovered a wide variety of excellent campsites that not only offered fantastic facilities but also served as gateways to some wonderful experiences and attractions. So, whether you're looking to escape into nature or experience local culture and history, here’s our pick of the ‘sites and sights’ of Portugal to help you plan your trip. 

The Sites

Turiscampo: Set on the beautiful Algarve coast this is arguably Portugal’s best campsite in terms of top class facilities and amenities. Open all-year-round and boasting both indoor (heated) and outdoor pools, state-of-the-art gym, sauna, spa and beauty treatments, as well as several excellent dining options, it’s easy to see why many people book here for extended stays, especially over the winter months. We were really impressed with their daily activities, both for adults and children, that run all year. While the kids loved the archery and craft sessions, we enjoyed the guided walks and Portuguese lessons. 

Parque Cerdeira: Without doubt this was our favourite site that we stayed at during the six weeks we were in Portugal. Located in the country’s only national park, Peneda-Gerês, and set amongst a sprawling forest, it offers everything you could want from a campsite, and so much more, especially if you’re a lover of nature and adventure. In addition to a swimming pool, mini-golf, park and excellent restaurant the site also has its own adventure rope course and direct access to some of the best walking and cycling routes in the national park. Everyday there are two different guided walks, as well as regular cultural activities showcasing the best of the region. 

Costa do Vizir: This exquisite campsite marries excellent standards and amenities with superb location. The site itself is a delight, bursting with colour and maintained to an immaculate level, giving the feeling you’re tucked away in a little village. Within walking distance of the front entrance is the quaint little settlement of Porto Covo, offering several excellent restaurants, cafes and boutique shops in a tranquil setting. To cap it all off there are a string of stunning beaches spreading in either direction along the Alentejo coast.  

Cepo Verde: Nestled amongst a vast forest of sweet chestnut, cherry and oak trees in the heart of Montesinho Nature Park is a small, wonderful family-run campsite that gives a feel of wild camping with its relaxed pitches, yet offering all the amenities you require for an enjoyable stay. The on-site restaurant specialises in traditional regional dishes and we highly recommend enjoying at least one meal here to sample the local cuisine. The best way to explore the surrounding landscapes is either on foot or bike, and there are several well-marked routes for both starting at the front of the site. 

Angeiras: One of several campsites in Portugal belonging to the Orbitur group, this site, while a little tired looking, is a great base for exploring both the surrounding fishing villages as well as Porto. Within walking distance is Praia de Angeiras and a series of local shops and cafes, as well as an excellent fish and local produce market. A regular bus service operates from in front of the site, allowing for easy access to Porto, a city bursting with energy that feels more like a big village, where you will find the famous port houses and so much more.  

The Sights 

Peneda-Gerês National Park: Upon arriving in Portugal we had never heard of Peneda-Gerês, yet by the time we had left we had visited the area twice. If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, mountains, off-the-beaten track adventure and/or cultural experiences, a stay in the park is a must. From a wide range of impressive waterfalls, endless hiking trails and historical manner of adventure sports, local cuisine and stunning landscapes the park is one of Portugal’s most under-rated destinations. Be sure to visit Miradouro da Pedra Bela and Soajo. 

Douro Valley: While Porto is home to the famous port houses and cellars, it’s the Douro Valley, where you’ll find a breathtaking tapestry of terraced vineyards, winding river bends, and hillside villages, that truly brings the magic of wine country to life. By far the best way to see the valley is to take a drive from Porto on the N222 as far as Pinhão where you can board the train to Pocinho. A return ticket costs around €14 and the journey is one of the very best in all of Portugal, offering a breathtaking escape into the heart of the Douro Valley, with its terraced vineyards, river views, dramatic landscapes and villages from yesteryear. 

Monchique: For many people southern Portugal is all about the Algarve. Yet for those prepared to head in-land from the sweeping beaches you will find one of the region’s best villages. With cobbled streets and traditional whitewashed houses Monchique is not only a gem itself, home to some amazing cake shops, but the gateway to the surrounding natural park. The park is a treasure trove of lush forests, picturesque valleys and rugged mountain peaks, including the highest point in the Algarve, Foia (an excellent cycling climb for those interested). For something a little different take a visit to the Happy Donkey Sanctuary, and for an exemplary local meal head to A Tasca do Petrol.

Berlengas Nature Reserve: A friendly local we met recommended we take a day trip across to Berlengas Nature Reserve, and we are so glad we took the advice. Situated off the coast of Peniche and accessible only by boat, the nature reserve, a UNESCO-protected archipelago, is a fascinating mix of natural beauty, history, and wildlife. Home to rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters and dramatic landscapes it’s also where you will find São João Baptista Fort, a 16th-century fortress perched on a rocky island offering a fascinating insight into the marine history of this part of Portugal. While you can do a half-day trip, we recommend doing the full day, as it allows for plenty of time to explore without worrying about missing the boat back. During busier times it’s essential to pre-book as there are limited permits for each day. A return trip starts in the region of €25 per person, depending on what additional extras you want to book with your visit. 

Paiva Valley: If you’re looking for somewhere for outdoor adventure that is set away from the usual routes through Portugal then Paiva Valley is the place for you. Located in the Arouca Geopark, a region renowned for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity and adventure opportunities, the highlight of the valley is the beautiful boarded walk along the river. It’s not all about nature though, with many historical sites of interest, including the 10th century Arouca Monastery. To see the valley from a different perspective book a crossing of the Paiva River Suspension Bridge, where you will enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the area. 

Want to discover more about Portugal? Then join Marcus at the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show in February where he will be sharing tales and travel advice from his recent family travels. You can purchase tickets here, using code MARCUS for a discount.