Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Local Accommodation (LA) will have new rules in favor of greater transparency in short-term tourist rentals, according to the concerns of the European Union (EU) which, together with the European Parliament , has reached a provisional agreement for the implementation of a new regulation aimed at sharing and collecting data on these businesses. According to the Council of the EU, the new regulation will apply two years after its entry into force , subject to formal approval by the two European institutions, as announced. The aim of the new regulation is to increase transparency in the sector, allowing public authorities to better control it. Spains Acting Secretary of State for Tourism, Rosana Morillo Rodriguez, mentions that everyone wins with the agreement , and adds: the new regulation creates a single, easy set of information rules for platforms and facilitates host registration procedures. More transparency will increase tourist confidence and help authorities design better tourism policies to ensure social and environmental sustainability, while helping to control illegal activities. According to the EU, although Local Accommodation provides benefits for both hosts and tourists , the business creates cause for concern for some local communities struggling with a lack of affordable housing . The new rules therefore include the introduction of registration requirements for hosts of short-term rental properties, as well as a unique registration number to be displayed on real estate websites. These two new features are intended to improve the collection and sharing of host data on this type of platform. According to the official information, the data generated will be shared between public administrations across the EU, feeding into tourism statistics and enabling administrations to combat illegal offers. Overall, this will contribute to a more sustainable tourism ecosystem that supports its digital transition. This will require platforms to transmit their activity data to public authorities on a monthly basis , while short-term rental platforms will submit it on a quarterly basis. Follow more topics like this in SUPERCASA News
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Portugal is a country full of stunning and unique destinations and, of all places, Piódão stands out as a true treasure hidden in the mountains. Visiting Piódão is an enchanting experience, offering not only an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, but also an immersion in Portugals traditions and natural beauty. In this article, SUPERCASA News explores with you what makes Piódão so special, presenting you with an itinerary of activities and sights to make your visit memorable. Piódão: a picturesque village Located in central Portugal, in the Serra do Açor , Piódão is a historic and picturesque village that seems to have come out of a fairy tale . Its charm lies in the traditional schist architecture, which gives the village a grey hue that contrasts with the brightly colored doors and windows. The narrow, winding streets paved with stone slabs complete the scene, creating a rustic and charming atmosphere. Itinerary of Activities and Sights: Explore the streets of Piódão: when you arrive, start your tour with a walk through the cobbled streets of Piódão. The traditional schist houses are a sight for sore eyes and the peaceful atmosphere invites contemplation and photography. Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição: the church is the heart of the village and an important place to visit. Its architectural simplicity reflects the authenticity of the local community. Dont miss the panoramic view from the belvedere in front of the church. Piódão Museum: the museum offers an in-depth insight into the history and culture of the village. Youll find exhibits highlighting traditional life in the region, including period costumes and utensils. Traditional cuisine: try the regions rich cuisine. Dishes such as roast kid, mountain cheese and the famous medronho liqueur are not to be missed. The local restaurants offer a true gastronomic experience. Mountain trails: nature lovers can explore the trails that surround Piódão. These walks lead to stunning landscapes, rivers and waterfalls, providing an experience closer to the natural beauty of the Serra do Açor. Visit to the village of Foz dÉgua: a few kilometers from Piódão, youll find the village of Foz dÉgua, famous for the natural pool of crystal-clear water formed by the confluence of two rivers. Its a refreshing place to swim in the hot summer months. Local handicrafts: Piódão is known for its schist handicrafts, as well as handmade lace and embroidery, so you can take home an authentic souvenir of your visit! Local events: if possible, plan your visit during traditional festivals or local festivals. These occasions will offer you a deeper insight into village life, as well as the chance to interact with locals. Practical Tips: - Access: Piódão is easily accessible by car, although the roads can be narrow and winding. - Accommodation: book accommodation in advance, especially during the high season, to ensure a comfortable stay. - Respect: remember to respect the tranquillity of the village and its local traditions, avoiding noisy behavior and respecting private spaces. Are you looking for new experiences? Discover the best destinations to travel to in 2024
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Since it was created in October last year, the law that encourages digital nomads to live in Portugal has already issued 2,600 visas , after the law on foreigners was also amended. The incentive law allows foreigners from outside Europe to live in Portugal, requiring only a residence visa to do so. Portugal is one of the most sought-after destinations for foreigners, both because of its quality of life and job opportunities, and because of the incentives given to this type of remote worker, and the nationalities that most seek us out for residence are North Americans, Brazilians and Brits. On the other hand, the most popular Portuguese destinations are Lisbon, Porto and Madeira. This is data collected directly from the official source of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , and a year after the creation of this new visa, it is possible to fit digital nomads in Portugal , as long as they work remotely and earn more than four times the national salary. Thus, through a temporary residence visa, followed by an interview scheduled at the SEF (Foreigners and Borders Service), at the end of four months, the visa is converted into a residence permit. This is valid for two years, during which time the visa holder cannot be outside Portugal for more than eight interpolated months, or six consecutive months. The visa is renewable for a further three years. Other topics that may interest you: More than 200% new gold visas in Porto in 2022 , Coliving: discover the trend that is here to stay
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction With the return of the cold weather in the final months of the year, many people are already dreaming of next years holidays . SUPERCASA Notícias has put together a list of the best destinations for you to start planning your next holiday. Weve given you suggestions in Portugal, Europe and Asia , so you can expand your options and get to know as many destinations as possible. What are the best destinations in Portugal? Azores The Portuguese archipelago is one of the most popular destinations. This group of nine islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is known for its natural waterfalls, lagoons and impressive landscapes , where you can walk around and get to know the nature of the islands, and explore the rich and abundant marine life. Faro The Portuguese district, capital of the Algarve, remains one of the best holiday destinations. Discover its beautiful beaches , as well as the Arco da Vila, which gives access to the old part of the city. Here youll find the Arab Gate , the oldest horseshoe arch in the country, and the various churches and cathedrals dotted around the city. And the best destinations in Europe? Sardinia - Italy The island of Sardinia is located in the Mediterranean Sea, just off the Italian peninsula. This island, more than 24,000 kilometres long, is known for its extensive landscapes, where you can enjoy beautiful beach days , as well as stroll through historic villages with castles and ruins by the sea. In addition to its landscapes, Sardinia is known for its incredible gastronomy and low prices. Zadar - Croatia Zadar is a city on the Croatian coast, known for its Roman ruins, medieval churches and museums . Its a vibrant but peaceful city for a holiday by the sea. What about Asia? Discover the best destinations Ho Chi Minh - Vietnam Located in the south of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh is a fast-growing city full of historical and religious sites . Visit the citys most characteristic buildings , such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office and the Opera House, among others. The city is Vietnams cultural capital and largest economic centre, where you can get in touch with a totally different culture and cuisine. Taipei - Taiwan Taiwains capital, Taipei, is a bustling metropolis, ideal for those who like the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you can find extraordinary skyscrapers surrounded by ancient temples, where you can stroll and shop in the streets of Ximending and sample the cuisine in the huge night markets. About travelling, also read: Coimbra: discover the history and charms of this Portuguese city
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The World Tourism Organisation has honoured four Portuguese towns with the Best Tourist Village 2023 award, putting Portugal once again in the spotlight when it comes to tourism and travel, as they could now become destinations of choice for foreigners. The locations honoured were Ericeira , in the municipality of Mafra, Madalena , in the Azores, Manteigas , in Guarda and Sortelha , in Sabugal. The award was presented last Thursday, October 19, and the distinction was announced during the general assembly of the World Tourism Organisations executive committee meeting. Regarding the award, the Secretary of State for Tourism, Trade and Services, Nuno Fazenda, commented: this distinction, awarded by one of the most important tourism organisations in the world, praises the excellence of national tourism, the interior of the country and differentiating tourism offers, adding that these awards are an international recognition of the sustainability and authenticity of Portuguese tourism, which we must continue to ensure and enhance. For the President of the Historical Villages of Portugal Tourism Development Association, Carlos Ascensão , the award demonstrates once again the merit of the work carried out by the Historical Villages, stressing that we are delighted to have received this distinction, which recognises our associations strategy of making this territory genuinely sustainable and innovative, based on the concept of green, inclusive and intelligent growth . The head of the association pointed out that, in order to receive this award, towns need to be genuinely committed to promoting and preserving their cultural and historical legacy and also be promoters of sustainable tourism . To get to know more of Portugal, SUPERCASA Notícias leaves you with some suggestions for a getaway: Coimbra: discover the history and charms of this Portuguese city or Discover Lousã: explore the nature and history of this place
Source: SUPERCASA Author: Redaction Coimbra is one of Portugals oldest and most iconic cities, full of history, architecture and traditions, known as the city of students for its vast academic tradition. Its impossible not to want to visit this city, which is why, so that you can plan your itinerary and enjoy the experience to the full, SUPERCASA Notícias leaves you with some suggestions that will help you explore and appreciate the best that Coimbra has to offer. And in the end, if youre interested in finding property in this charismatic city, take a look at the suggestions weve left for you. University of Coimbra Start your tour at the famous University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. Stroll around the historic campus, admire the magnificent Joanina Library with its impressive architecture and explore the courtyards and gardens that have witnessed centuries of knowledge and learning. Joanine Library The Joanine Library deserves its own highlight. This baroque library is known for its architectural beauty and rich collection of rare books. Marvel at the carved wooden shelves, the ornate ceiling and the precious works it houses. Convent of Santa Clara-a-Nova Visit the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Nova, a historic site that offers stunning panoramic views of Coimbra . Explore the old nuns cells, the cloister and the adjacent museum, where you can learn about the history of the convent and the city. Old Cathedral Dont miss a visit to the Sé Velha, an imposing Gothic cathedral dating back to the 12th century. Explore the impressive interior, including the high altar and stained glass windows, while soaking up the serene atmosphere of this historic site. Stroll along the River Mondego Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the River Mondego. There are boat trips available to appreciate Coimbra from a different perspective , while enjoying the serene landscape and the beautiful bridges that cross the river. Botanical Gardens If youre looking for a peaceful retreat, the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra is the ideal place. This green oasis offers a variety of exotic and local plants, as well as peaceful trails along which you can stroll. Gastronomic Route Finish your tour with Coimbras delicious gastronomy. Try traditional dishes such as roast suckling pig, chanfana (goat meat stew) and convent sweets such as pastéis de Santa Clara. If youre interested in moving to Coimbra and are looking for property, take a look at our suggestions: Apartment 2 bedrooms - 292.500€ Apartment 4 bedrooms - 460.000€ Apartment 3 bedrooms - 590.000€ Also follow: Costa Alentejana: discover what you can visit , Discover Lousã: explore the nature and history of this place or SUPERCASA Houses of the Week
Source: SUPERCASA Author: Redação Portugals Alentejo coast is a hidden treasure that offers a unique mix of beaches, cliffs and a rich cultural heritage. If youre planning to explore this region, SUPERCASA Notícias has some suggestions for excursions that will help you experience the best the Alentejo Coast has to offer: Paradise beaches The Costa Alentejana is famous for its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters . Visit iconic beaches such as Praia do Carvalhal, Praia da Comporta and Praia de Odeceixe to enjoy a relaxing swim and stunning scenery. Rota Vicentina: Coastal Walks The Rota Vicentina offers stunning coastal trails that take you through dramatic cliffs , sand dunes and unspoilt natural landscapes. Walk the route to experience panoramic views and a deep connection with nature. Birdwatching The Alentejo Coast is a paradise for birdwatchers . The Sado Estuary Nature Reserve and Santo André Lagoon are popular spots for spotting seabirds and migratory birds in their natural habitat. Porto Covo Village: Coastal Charm Explore the charming village of Porto Covo, known for its whitewashed houses, quiet beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit the Church of São Sebastião and take in the picturesque scenery. Sines Castle: Historical Heritage Visit Sines Castle, a historical landmark dating back to the 15th century. Explore the castle walls, the Sines Museum and enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the sea. Alentejo gastronomy Dont miss out on savouring authentic Alentejo cuisine. Try dishes such as lamb stew, migas, regional cheeses and Alentejo bread. Also enjoy the fresh and delicious seafood. Sunset on the cliffs End your walks with an unforgettable sunset on the cliffs of the Alentejo Coast. Find a quiet spot to enjoy the spectacular colours of the sky as the sun sets over the horizon. Always remember to respect the environment and follow local guidelines when visiting the Costa Alentejana. This region offers a unique experience of nature, culture and beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your memory. And if you really like this place, why not take a look at some of the properties available on SUPERCASA ? Alentejo Farmhouse 2 bedrooms - 290.000€ Apartment 2 bedrooms + 1 - 798.000€ Apartment 1 bedroom +1 - 483.500€ Follow these and other suggestions in SUPERCASA Notícias
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Lousã is a charming village in the heart of Portugal, and a destination that combines stunning natural landscapes with a rich historical heritage. For those planning to visit the region, SUPERCASA Notícias has some suggestions to help you discover the best that Lousã has to offer. And at the end, take a look at some of the properties for sale in the town, should you wish to move here. Schist Villages: rustic charm Start your journey with a stroll through the picturesque schist villages that surround Lousã. Villages such as Talasnal, Casal Novo and Cerdeira offer a unique experience, with traditional stone houses and a rustic atmosphere that will transport you back in time. Lousã Castle: history and panoramic views Climb up to Lousã Castle for a historical experience. This medieval castle offers stunning panoramic views of the town and the surrounding hills. Explore the ruins, soak up the ancient atmosphere and take some memorable photos. Serra da Lousã Biological Park: nature and education Visit the Serra da Lousã Biological Park for an educational experience and contact with nature, where youll find a huge variety of animal and plant species. Youll have the unique opportunity to learn about the local fauna and flora. Senhora da Graça River Beach: relax by the river Enjoy a relaxing day at the Senhora da Graça River Beach. Located on the banks of the River Arouce, this beach offers bathing areas, picnic areas and a peaceful atmosphere that will allow you to relax by the river. Ameixoeira Caves: explore underground secrets For adventure lovers, the Ameixoeira Caves are an exciting attraction. Explore the underground galleries and marvel at the impressive limestone formations that have been sculpted by nature over the centuries. Trails and walks Lousã is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. There are several well-marked trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Schist Villages Route is a popular option that allows you to explore the various schist villages in a single route. Local Gastronomy Finish your tour with a tasting of the delicious local gastronomy. Try traditional dishes such as chanfana (goat meat stew), sopa da pedra (stone soup) and regional cheeses, accompanied by a glass of local wine. And if youre looking for a home, SUPERCASA suggests: Apartment 4 bedrooms - 280.000€ Apartament 3 bedrooms - 235.000€ Continue exploring the properties available on SUPERCASA here .
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction In a statement to SUPERCASA Notícias , GuestReady, the leading company in the local accommodation sector in Portugal, announced a 20% increase in the number of bookings in the first half of 2023 , a record figure. However, the company warns of high costs that could jeopardize summer results. In the first six months, the growing number of bookings verified by GuestReady accompanied the growth of the companys Local Accommodation (LA) portfolio, a scenario that is now also positive: for August, the company is already registering an occupancy rate of over 90%. According to the information that GuestReady provided to SUPERCASA Notícias , on average, the standard tourist in Portugal stays in LA for four nights - a slight increase compared to 2022, and the most common tourist profile is a couple traveling without children, and the most recurrent nationality is French. The other tourists who booked the most in LA are Portuguese, Spanish, English, German, American and Brazilian. GuestReadys data confirms the figures released this week by the National Statistics Institute: 2023 is marking record tourism figures in Portugal. The company also confirms that accommodation prices this year are slightly higher than in 2022, meaning that vacations in Portugal are more expensive . Despite the apparently favorable scenario for LA managers, GuestReady warns that the increase in management costs could mean that the results of the summer vacations do not match the sectors high expectations. The slightly higher price of bookings is also a reflection of this increase in costs, but this change in price is not in line with, and may not compensate for, the evolution of inflation for operators. GuestReady, which operates in seven countries, also reports a 3% drop in occupancy in Europe , a reflection of inflation and the rising cost of living. This downturn has not yet occurred in Portugal, which continues to record positive figures, but the country is not immune to this reality: since June there has been a slight drop in the number of bookings compared to the sectors forecasts . The tourism market in Portugal is growing, occupancy is high and we recorded a record number of bookings in the first six months of the year, explains Rui Silva, Managing Director of GuestReady in Portugal , in the note to which SUPERCASA Notícias has had access. But its misleading to say that the summer of 2023 is turning out to be the best ever for Local Accommodation in our country: the offer is increasingly diverse, competitiveness is increasing and management costs are rising, which is taking profit away from the individual owner. The sector has to be alert to the progressive increase in these costs, and we cant stop focusing on sustainability for the continued growth of tourism in Portugal. Related topics: Find out how to plan your vacation budget , Revenues in tourist accommodation continue to rise or Hotel sector makes positive forecasts for 2023
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The holiday period is a relaxed time where you have the chance to disconnect from the hassles of work and the chaotic routines of weekdays , and you can simply relax, enjoy doing nothing and, if youre lucky, take a few days to get away from home and travel. If this is the case for you, and you do have a trip in mind that involves a few days away from home, it is important that you remember a few things before you go , ensuring that you leave your home immaculate and free from future problems that may plague you upon your return. So that you can enjoy your holidays in the greatest of relaxation, and so that you go rested without missing anything on the checklist, SUPERCASA News leaves you a set of reminders to prepare your home before leaving it for a period of days or weeks , ensuring that everything is taken care of. Check sockets, lights, equipment and anything else that might impact your return. This is one of the most common mistakes people make when rushing out of the house. And if it frustrates you when things are only switched on for a few hours, imagine what it would be like if days passed. Its vital that you check your home before you go on holiday, making sure everything is turned off properly. Check lights, electrical equipment, plugs, and see what can be switched off. You dont want to unplug large appliances such as a fridge or freezer that still contain food, as that would be an even bigger headache when you return from your holiday and realize that everything is spoiled, smells bad, and you have to do twice as much work cleaning it up and throwing it away. So our advice is to empty these appliances or leave the bare minimum in them for when you get back, making sure they are products or foods that will last for the days you are away. This is important to ensure that you minimize consumption on your electricity bill , as you wont want to find out that everything has been contributing to a higher figure than you would expect during your absence. This also includes taps and plumbing , not only to save money but above all to avoid flooding or other inconvenient situations. And for the food you have in cupboards and pantries, like the food you have stored in your fridge or freezer, you should check the expiry dates to avoid situations like the one weve already mentioned. Dont forget your plants Its likely that the last thing on your mind is maintaining your plants, if you have them. Unfortunately, as these are elements that need certain care, it is important that you realize if the days you will be away could have an impact on them . Depending on the type of plant and the days you are away, it may be appropriate to ask a friend or family member to visit your home to water them . In any case, even if they dont need immediate watering, make sure you close all the windows and shutters, or leave them slightly raised so that the plants can receive sunlight. If you have pets, take them with you on holiday! If you cant, leave them at a pet hotel or in the care of family or friends. If you follow these tips, you will certainly have a restful holiday. And we also offer you an additional tip : ask someone you trust to visit your home from time to time to ensure that everything is in order and to prevent possible thieves from noticing your absence.
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction August is a typically dynamic month, with plenty of celebrations and pilgrimages throughout the country. Some of these are religious celebrations, but most include festivals, city festivals and other summer gatherings, which attract visitors to watch activities, shows and big names in Portuguese music. So prepare your diary and enjoy the selection of festivals that SUPERCASA Notícias brings you , and discover, with these selections, the hidden charms that Portugal has to offer. Olhão Seafood Festival If you decide to spend some time in the south of the country, we recommend the city of Olhão , a special point of reference on the Algarve tourist route. We suggest you visit this city with exotic architecture, not only for its unrivalled gastronomy, but also for its beautiful islands. Also take advantage of the seafood festival, which will take place between 10 August and 14 August, in the Jardim Pescador Olhanense, with the beautiful Ria Formosa in the background. This festival will showcase the wide variety of seafood, the traditional method of cooking it, and the traditional regional sweets. And yet, because it could not miss, there will be the exhibition of handicrafts and shows. The festival features some of the biggest names in music, and daily tickets cost €10. For children between the ages of 7 and 12, the cost is €5. Last year, the festival broke records for ticket sales and the sale of seafood and shellfish. This year, grilled prawns, seafood rice, crab cakes, paellas, lobsters and lobsters and others will be served. Senhora da Agonia: Viana do Castelo The pilgrimage in honour of Our Lady of Agony in Viana do Castelo will take place between 14 and 22 August. This is an annual festival that began in 1772, but it was only in 1783 that the celebrations began to take place in August, being considered the largest pilgrimage in Portugal. The pilgrimage of Our Lady of Agony features a parade of folkloric groups and groups of drums, one of the highlights of this festival, and also the transfer of images of Senhor dos Aflitos and Nossa Senhora da Assunção. There is also the parade in Praça da Republica and Avenida dos Combatentes of the Gigantones and Cabeçudos. The festival also features the Mordomia parade , which involves more than half a thousand women spreading the traditional chieira throughout the city, wearing traditional and beautiful costumes with kilos of gold on their chests, this parade being qualified as the largest free gold showcase in the world. On 20 August, the procession to the sea begins, on the day of Our Lady of Agony, where the men wear their best shirts in squares, as is the tradition of the sea, carrying the andores on their shoulders to the pier. The boats are then blessed to be taken to the sea and the river. Feira de São Mateus in Viseu Another of the great Portuguese pilgrimages is the São Mateus fair, which will take place in Viseu between 10 August and 21 September, and which features concerts, entertainment, commerce and, most importantly, gastronomy. The poster of this years edition has the presence of well-known names from the world of Portuguese music such as José Cid, Os Azeitonas, Bárbara Bandeira, Toy, Diogo Piçarra, D.A.M.A, among others, and will feature tournaments of Gamming, Padel, Static Rowing and also a contest of Cheetah Dresses. São Bento da Porta Aberta in Gerês The second largest Portuguese sanctuary, the Sanctuary of São Bento da Porta Aberta in Gerês, which attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every year, leads the statistics only below the Sanctuary of Fátima and, between 10 and 15 August, will have a religious exhibition with parades and representations of art made of fabric. This Sanctuary enjoys an excellent geographical location , right in the heart of Minho, a place preferred by the cult of the founder of the Benedictines, there will also be performances by folkloric ranches, meetings of concertina groups and challenge songs, with the majestic procession in honour of St. Peter taking place on August 13. August Tide Festival on the island of Santa Maria For those who want to take a holiday away from the mainland and feel like visiting the little piece of paradise that Portugal has to offer, you can visit the bay of Praia Formosa on the island of Santa Maria, in the Azores Archipelago, where the Maré de Agosto International Music Festival will take place between 24 and 26 August. The festival will bring together some well-known names, who will perform on a stage located just 20 metres from the beach. During its 30 editions, the Maré de Agosto Festival has been highlighted by the participation of well-known names in the national and international music scene, with several currents of World Music being represented over the years in this festival, which began with a group of Azorean artists and had the proactivity to promote a meeting of several musicians from the island. Currently, entrance tickets cost €50 for the three days of the festival. Enjoy this month of August and learn more about: 8 New locations classified as Villages of Portugal or Escapadinha no Douro: discover the exclusive refuges
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction August is typically a holiday month , where people choose to take a few days off to travel, go to the beach or enjoy family evenings, taking advantage of the good temperatures. Holidays are synonymous with relaxing, but it is also normal to think of the beach, as it combines the best of both worlds. So, because we have at our disposal a country full of unexplored treasures, some of them with charms that will make you want to return, we show you the best river beaches in the country - not least because, despite Portugals vast sea coast, there are many beaches inland, full of appeals that you will get to know here. It is important to emphasise that there are hundreds of river beaches, many of them with other attributes besides the bathing area. They are places often surrounded by nature and with characteristics quite different from ordinary beaches. On hot days, they are an infallible paradise and, for those with children, it works as a safer option. Discover the best river beaches in the country: 1 - Azenhas River Beach, in Vilar de Mouros Located in the north of the country, and often the refuge of festival-goers who head to the Paredes de Coura Festival every year, it is a place full of amenities , not only for its clear and fresh waters, but also for the infrastructures it offers to its visitors, such as the support bar, the picnic park and the leisure areas. Surrounded by the nature of Minho, it is a safe beach that provides a place of deep rest and a refuge on windy days . It is prepared with a lifeguard during the bathing season and is ideal for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 2 - Castanheira River Beach in Ferreira do Zêzere This oasis in the heart of Ribatejo is known for its crystal clear and mild waters , and is often referred to as the Blue Lake River Beach. With lots of shaded areas, providing pleasant moments on the hottest sunny days, it is full of equipment that allows the practice of water sports, such as water scooter, windsurfing and seagull. For the more adventurous, it is the ideal holiday setting, where the days on the water will be long and exciting. 3 - River Beach of Cardigos, in Mação Still in the lower border area, with a breathtaking beauty , you will find this relaxing river beach, where you can walk on the grassy areas and sunbathe under the straw hats. And if you are looking for a place where you can go to socialise with friends, this is perhaps the perfect option, since you will find in this beach a picnic area and barbecue grills, where you can prepare your meals and enjoy the summer leisure so common this season. 4 - River Beach of Rocas, in Castanheira de Pera Youll find, right in the centre of Portugal , this wonderful family refuge, located on a lake almost a kilometre away. Inserted in a leisure complex, and with lots of animations that will get kids and adults celebrating the essence of summer , this beach has, in addition to numerous water activities, a swimming pool with waves, considered the largest in the country. 5 - Olhos de Água River Beach, in Alcanena Well known for its spring of clean and fresh waters , this is a beach where you can enjoy pleasant and well-disposed leisure days. Youll be able to enjoy the camping site and, if you take children, a playground that will delight you. It is not to be missed for its educational and cultural offer, as you can visit the Alviela Living Science Centre and the Gruta da Canada, where you will discover a cave inhabited by bats. These are just some of the impressive examples of the national offer of river beaches. However, keep following us for more tips and suggestions, and make your summer unforgettable! Take the opportunity to also read: Escapadinha no Douro: discover the exclusive refuges , Find out how to plan your holiday budget and Camping sites: 5 ideas for an adventure in nature