In Vila Nova de Milfontes

Vila Nova de Milfonte’s main attractions are its beautiful beaches. From Sao Torpes to Cabo Sardao, there are many fine sand beaches, a thousand and one dunes in constant movement and cliffs, towering over the ocean. Nature is constantly changing and its cycles are protected and respected.

The river Mira is one of the cleanest rivers in Europe and many species of birds can be found in the Milfonte’s estuary. The herons, ducks and storks that feed around there frequent it and marine life also flourishes here.

Occupied by man since time immemorial, Vila Nova de Milfontes balances both nature and history. On the riverbank, there’s a very well preserved 17 th Century fort with drawbridge. The buildings in the historical centre of Vila Nova de Milfontes reflect the local, traditional architecture. The walls of the town houses continue to be painted yearly with whitewash and the window and door surrounds are decorated with festive colours like blue and yellow.

The gastronomy of Milfontes is definitely worth a try. There are various restaurants to be found in the village that have become famous nationwide. All the traditional dishes which are served, are made with regional produce. You must try the fish stew, Alentejo pork meat with clams, the sweet potato pastries and, of course, all the grilled fish you can eat!

There are some regions which are a must to visit when you’re staying in Duna Parque. When in Sines, visit the castle and the cultural centre that pays tribute to the great Portuguese poet, Al Berto. Also, one of the biggest musical cultural events in Portugal takes place here, in this sea faring town – the Festival of World Music. Another town in the area, which is worthy of a visit, is Santiago do Cacem. Apart from its white houses, and the Baroc style church, you can visit the Roman city of Mirobriga, which boasts visible traces of the forum, roman baths, hippodrome, dwellings and cobbled streets. In Campo Redonda, remember to try the cheese and in Zambujeira do Mar, don’t forget that each August you can enjoy one of the top rock festivals in Portugal, which plays host to a bevy of international names.

To the South

There are 95 kilometers of stunning natural beauty stretching from Vila Nova de Milfontes down to Lagos. When travelling, the route following the coast is a must, because there you’ll find little villages like Odeceixe, Aljezur or Carrapateira, which are beautiful in their simplicity.

The beaches on this route are definitely worth a stop and fans of windsurfing will find some of the best beaches in Portugal for enjoying their hobby.

Lagos is the western most city of the Algarve and one of its best preserved. Walk along it’s narrow streets, take in the views from its’ ramparts and try a Dom Rodrigo, a typical dessert of the region.

Links and Items of Interest

Odemiropedia (General information about Vila Nova de Milfontes)
Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina
AnteMare-Tourism, Environment and progressive sustainability of the South East
Municipality of Sines
Archaeology of Mirobriga