When it comes to tourism in Portugal, there are a few destinations that immediately spring to mind.
The Algarve is perhaps the most obvious, not least because it has been the destination of choice for many families for decades. In the meantime, the Vicentine coast has been gaining ground, especially for those looking for a quieter, more peaceful bathing environment.
Then there's the case of Lisbon and Porto, the country's two largest cities, which have different characteristics. They are urban destinations, more geared towards young people and backpackers. And all this only in the mainland, because there are still the autonomous regions of the Azores and Madeira, with their own specific characteristics.
There is a region in Portugal which, despite its enormous potential, seems to remain an undiscovered pearl. The first warnings are appearing in specialized international publications, calling it "Europe's best-kept secret". We're talking about the West of Portugal, the territory in the center of the country that blends nature, culture and art like no other region.
THE WESTERN TERRITORY
The West region of Portugal is very diverse and this is also explained by the number of territories it covers. There are 12 municipalities in all, north of Lisbon, including larger urban cities such as Caldas da Rainha or Torres Vedras, picturesque towns such as Nazaré or Óbidos and both coastal and inland areas.
In addition to this geographical wealth, another of the West's assets is its location. Strategically located between the country's two most important cities, Lisbon and Porto, Oeste is just one hour away from the capital and is served by excellent road access and a vast public transport network, including rail.
Thus, the Oeste region is bordered to the south by Arruda dos Vinhos and Sobral de Monte Abraço, while to the north it is bordered by Alcobaça and Nazaré. The other municipalities are Caldas da Rainha, Óbidos, Peniche, Bombarral, Lourinhã, Cadaval, Alenquer and Torres Vedras. But we'll find out more about them in a moment.
WHAT TO VISIT FROM NORTH TO SOUTH IN THE WEST
Given the vastness of the territory and its different characteristics, it is difficult to highlight the best attractions in western Portugal. However, we can try, although it's important to make it clear that these highlights will always fall short. Let's start with the sea and summer lovers.
For these, Peniche and Nazaré are the destinations of choice. Both have the best beaches in the region and probably some of the best on the entire west coast of the country. With its white sand and long stretches of sand, Praia do Norte, for example, is one of these highlights. In addition, both Peniche and Nazaré also have extremely favorable conditions for water sports, particularly surfing. Professionals and amateurs from all over the world gather on the beaches of these two municipalities, which even host a world circuit event.
This is also a region with a great religious tradition. Here, the Judeo-Christian roots are still very strong and are reflected in a unique built heritage. For those who like this type of architecture, whether they are believers or not, the West is a destination of choice. In Alcobaça, the Monastery of the same name is one of the most important national monuments and a must-see on any tour of the area. It was begun in the 12th century and is considered one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal.
However, few towns have the charm of Óbidos. This ancient medieval town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has remained practically unchanged since it was founded, surrounded by its high walls. It's like a movie set out of a series like "Game of Thrones", picturesque in appearance but with an intense social and cultural life in its alleys.
It's also in Óbidos that you should try the famous ginjinha, an obligatory aperitif for anyone visiting Portugal. The West is also a region of good food and drink. Alcobaça's convent sweets have a reputation that precedes them, like the famous lamprey with eggs, but also the game dishes. This is an area of good meat, but also good wine. After all, the favorable weather conditions make the region one of the richest when it comes to winemaking.
The West of Portugal is the area to discover in the near future. More and more visitors are arriving from all over the world, having heard about this pearl at the westernmost tip of the European continent. And we, on the inside, still have the greatest treasures of all on our doorstep, often without realizing it. It's time we changed that!
