Parque de Campismo Campimeco

The beach is likely to soak up a fair amount of your time, presumably, but it’s worth also planning a bit of time taking in other bits of the coastline – perhaps with a wander around Cabo Espichel Lighthouse (20 minutes’ drive) or a day of windsurfing or paddleboarding at Lagoa de Albufeira, a seaside lagoon 15 minutes’ drive away. Seaside scenery while you stroll? There are heaps of excellent trails to follow in the Parque Natural da Arrábida (15 minutes’ drive) and the Serra da Arrabida (35 minutes) beyond it. Highlights to seek out include the little sea-cave chapel Lapa de Santa Margarida (40 minutes) and the views from Miradouro do Norte (45 minutes) – and there’s often scope to end your hike with a dip at a pretty beach. And while it may surprise you to hear it, given the chilled vibe that comes from being happily sandwiched between the forest and the beach, it’s only about an hour’s drive to get up to Lisbon to check out the Torre de Belém, wander around the pretty Alfama district, hit the museums and feast on sweet custard tarts.