10 Hidden Gems in Lourinhã You Never Knew Existed
Are you tired of following the crowds to the same old tourist attractions in Portugal? Seeking a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience? Look no further! We’ve done the legwork for you, curating a list of 10 hidden gems in Lourinhã that will make your trip to this charming town unforgettable. From Roman ruins and mysterious shrines to secluded beaches and adrenaline-pumping adventures, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover the best-kept secrets of Lourinhã. Start planning your trip today!
LOGISTICS: HOW TO GET TO lourinhã
The vehicle is the easiest way to get to Lourinhã. The drive from Lisbon is approximately 45 minutes-1 hour. Our favorite car rental aggregator is DISCOVER CARS. Click HERE to get the best rates on car rentals. DISCOVER CARS LINK
If you prefer public transportation: From Lisbon, take a bus from Sete Rios on Rede Expressos.
Spend a Day at Praia da Areia Branca
A must-visit gem in Lourinhã is Praia da Areia Branca. This stunning beach is located just a short drive from the town center. It offers a quieter and more peaceful alternative to the more popular beaches in the area. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming in the clear waters, or surfing some of the best waves in Portugal.
Praia da Areia Branca is an ideal spot for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere. The beach stretches for over two kilometers, providing plenty of space for everyone to find their own spot in the sand. In addition to swimming and surfing, there are also beach volleyball courts and a playground for children.
When you get hungry, there are several cafes and restaurants near the beach serving delicious food and other local specialties.
In the evening, grab a spot on the beach to watch the beautiful sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. With its picturesque setting and calm atmosphere, Praia da Areia Branca is the perfect place to spend a day away from the crowds and soak up the natural beauty of Lourinhã.
Indulge in Delicious Vegan Cuisine at Yukimura Sushi Bar or Areal Beach Bar by Chakall
After a day of exploring the historical and cultural sites in Lourinhã, you’ll want to indulge in some delicious vegan cuisine at Yukimura Sushi Bar or Areal Beach Bar by Chakall at Praia da Areia Branca. These charming restaurants offer a wide range of vegan options that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. From juicy veggie burgers, an interesting satay in a pineapple to refreshing sushi, there’s something for everyone on the menu.
Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, take a leisurely stroll at the Praia do Caniçal beach. This beautiful beach offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and is the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Escape to the Secluded Praia do Caniçal Beach
It’s time to take a break and unwind at the peaceful Praia do Caniçal Beach. This secluded beach offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The white sand and crystal-clear water are inviting and refreshing.
As you bask in the sun, you can hear the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. You can also take a dip in the water and cool off from the heat. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and rocks, adding to its secluded vibe.
After a relaxing afternoon at Praia do Caniçal Beach, take a breathtaking coastal drive to see all the beaches and viewpoints from the road.
Take a Scenic Drive Along the Coastal Road
After exploring the hidden gems that Lourinhã has to offer, it’s time to take a scenic drive along the coastal road. This drive offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. The road is winding, but the beauty of the scenery makes it worth the drive.
As you drive along the coastal road, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at various viewpoints and take in the stunning sights. Be sure to bring your camera, as there will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
As mentioned above, one of the must-see spots on the coastal drive is Praia da Areia Branca. This sandy beach is a popular spot for surfing and sunbathing, and its turquoise waters are simply captivating. Take a stroll along the beach, breathe in the fresh sea air, and enjoy the sound of waves crashing against the shore.
The coastal road will also take you past charming fishing villages that have retained their traditional character.
After experiencing the beauty of the coastal road, you’ll be left with memories that will last a lifetime. It’s the perfect way to end a day of adventure in Lourinhã.
Take a Stroll Through the Quinta dos Loridos Gardens/Visit Bacalhoa Buddha Eden in nearby Bombarral
Take a stroll through the idyllic Quinta dos Loridos Gardens aka Buddha Eden. This hidden gem is a botanical paradise that is often overlooked by tourists who flock to the more famous attractions in the area. The gardens are home to an impressive collection of exotic plants, flowers, and trees from all over the world. This includes rare species that are not commonly found in other Portuguese gardens.
As you wander through the gardens, you’ll be surrounded by fragrant blooms, lush greenery, and tranquil ponds. The peaceful atmosphere provides a much-needed break from the chaos of modern life and is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. The gardens are also dotted with charming little pavilions where you can sit and soak up the beauty around you.
Buddha Eden is about a 20-minute drive from Lourinhã, but a visit to this unique, awe-inspiring garden is definitely worth it. With gigantic statues, Buddha-inspired designs, colorful flowers, and shrubbery in the picturesque countryside, you must visit this place while in the area.
Explore the Mysterious Cova da Moura Shrine
Once you’ve had your fill of nature in the gardens, it’s time to delve into Lourinhã’s history and visit the mysterious Cova da Moura Shrine. This hidden gem is a sacred site that has been revered for centuries for its magical healing powers. Legend has it that a Moorish princess was buried here during the 13th century. Her body was discovered several centuries later by a farmer who was tending to his crops.
As you explore the shrine, you’ll feel history all around you and be transported back in time to a different era. The walls are adorned with ancient symbols and inscriptions, and the air is thick with the scent of candles and incense. The shrine is a peaceful and contemplative space, where you can take a moment to reflect and connect with something greater than yourself.
Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Dino Parque
After a day spent enjoying the beach, it’s time to switch gears and satisfy your cravings for adventure. Dino Parque is just the place to do that. This unique amusement park is filled with life-size replicas of creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. Walk through a dense forest while keeping an eye out for a prowling T-Rex or a gentle Stegosaurus. The park includes an impressive collection of fossils, interactive exhibits, and an educational experience that’s perfect for all ages.
Enjoy a Coffee at the Cozy Café Belmar
Once the adventure at Dino Parque is complete, it’s time to unwind and indulge in some coffee at the charming Café Belmar. This cozy little café is just a stone’s throw away from the amusement park. Named aptly, the café is located in the town square and offers an inviting atmosphere for visitors to sit down, relax, and sip on some coffee. The café has a wide variety of coffee options, ranging from a strong espresso to a sweet latte, so there is something to suit every taste bud.
As you indulge in a warm cup of coffee, take in the sights and sounds of the town square. The café’s ambiance is perfect for travelers who are looking for a calm and relaxed environment to rest their weary feet after a long day of exploring. After enjoying the cozy atmosphere, it’s time to head to the next destination and discover the fascinating world of dinosaurs at the Museu da Lourinhã.
Discover the Fascinating World of Dinosaurs at Museu da Lourinhã
After spending a thrilling day at Dino Parque and relishing a cup of coffee at Café da Praça, it’s time to continue the exploration of Lourinhã but this time, back in time! The Museu da Lourinhã, located just a few miles from the town square, is a must-visit for anyone curious about the prehistoric era.
The museum showcases a vast collection of dinosaur fossils and skeletons, and it’s one of the most significant paleontological collections in Portugal. Visitors can wander through the museum’s halls, which are adorned with displays of dinosaur replicas, interactive exhibits, and informative panels. The museum’s most famous exhibit is the Lourinhãnosaurus antunesi, which is a carnivorous dinosaur that lived in the Late Jurassic Period, about 149 million years ago.
In addition to the Lourinhãnosaurus antunesi, the museum has a comprehensive collection of fossils from other species, including crocodiles, turtles, and pterosaurs. It’s a fascinating experience to witness the remnants of these ancient creatures and learn about their evolution.
Once you’ve explored the museum’s exhibits, you can visit the gift shop, which sells a variety of dinosaur-themed souvenirs and gifts. Afterward, the museum’s picnic area is the perfect spot to have a picnic lunch or a snack and relax.
Booking.com
where to stay in lourinhã
- Awesome home in Lourinhã – 3 bedroom home with pool!
- Areias Sunset Suite – great place for relaxation and to enjoy the view
- Sea Lovers – super comfy spot near the beach
- Casa do Convento – fantastic location and amenities
fun paid activities in lourinhã
Lourinhã may not be on everyone’s radar when it comes to must-visit destinations in Portugal, but it should be. With its mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and thrilling attractions, this is a town that has something for everyone. From the secluded Praia do Caniçal Beach to the adrenaline-pumping Dino Parque, we’ve curated a list of 10 hidden gems that will make your trip truly unforgettable. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure to Lourinhã today, and discover a world of wonders that you never knew existed.
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OUR MUST-HAVE ITEMS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing! They are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful for all the hills in Portugal! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking in Portugal.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – I seriously wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack that we can easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city.
- If you want to feel like a local, then get this backpack. It’s all the rage in Europe!
OUR FAVORITE PORTUGAL SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while in Portugal, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – if you want to learn some Portuguese before traveling to Portugal, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
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We are in Lourinha now and have tried to find the Cova da Moura shrine but have been unsuccessful. It sounds very beautiful and mysterious but no one here knows what or where it is- not even in the tourism office. Please reach out to me if you have any information. Thanks!