Central Portugal

While Aveiro itself has no beach the coast each side of the town is a more or less continuous line of sand cut off from the mainland by a meandering lagoon, which is home to an abundant array of birdlife. The beaches of Barra and Costa Nova are both easily reached on public transport from Aveiro and remain relatively unspoilt.

Nazare is a fascinating place, steeped in history, but sadly overwhelmed by tourism. Very crowded in summer, with a sprawl of holiday apartment buildings obscuring much of the town's former unique atmosphere, this is a crowded, raucous beach resort with all the hustle, bustle and hassle that goes with it. Formerly known for the traditional costumes worn by fishermen and their wives, old women can still be seen standing on street corners in traditional headscarves and aprons, although they are now more likely to be selling tourist accommodation than fish.