In the heart of the "Costa Vicentina" Nature Conservancy Area, off the tourist trail, lie the idyllic sand beaches of Praia do Zavial and Praia da Ingrina. Fishermen, on donkeys, are to be seen on their way to beaches each morning, while shepherds graze their flocks on the surrounding grasslands and sea eagles, falcons and other birds wheel freely in the skies overhead.

A vista of untouched Flora and Fauna awaits visitors, as do signs of pre-history with 3000-year-old stone dolmens giving testimony to man's presence here at the far-western edge of Europe since time immemorial.

The beach restaurants offer traditional quality Portuguese fare, including excellent fish dishes, overlooking beaches where you can sunbathe under palms beside a balmy sea.