Vila Nova de Milfontes: Alentejo Coast Base

Vila Nova de Milfontes is the favourite summer town on the Alentejo coast: a white village at the mouth of the Mira river, with river beaches on one side and wild Atlantic beaches on the other. It’s a great base for the Rota Vicentina trails and the Costa Vicentina Natural Park.

Quick answer: Milfontes is about 2 hours south of Lisbon. Swim at Praia da Franquia on the river, take the little boat across to Praia das Furnas, kayak up the Mira, walk the clifftop trails, and eat seafood in the village. It’s busy in August and blissfully quiet in spring and autumn. See places to stay in Milfontes.

Things to do

• River beaches: calm, warmer water at Praia da Franquia and along the estuary.
• Praia das Furnas: across the river, reached by car, a long walk or a small boat in summer.
• Ocean beaches: wild beaches north and south of town, such as Malhão.
• Kayaking and SUP up the Mira river.
• Hiking: the Fishermen’s Trail and Historical Way pass through. See Costa Vicentina.
• The fort: a small fort at the river mouth.

Nearby

• Porto Covo: see Porto Covo.
• Odeceixe: see Odeceixe.
• Comporta: see Comporta.

Tips

• August: very busy with Portuguese holidaymakers. Book early.
• Currents: the river mouth has strong tidal currents.
• Car: the easiest way to explore the coast.

More: the best beach towns and the best road trips.

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