Walking in Salir Do porto

After having arrived the evening before in Foz Do Arelho, we decided to stay local for our first day in the Estremadura and Ribatejo region of Portugal.
Estremadura and Ribatejo have an amazing historical past. From the walled town of Obidos to the monastery at Alcobaca, the area is steeped in history.
On this first day, we decided to drive the short distance to Salir Do Porto, home to a 49 meter high dune.
We decided to park the car closer to the town of Sao Martinho do porto which together with Salir Do porto is located at a shell shaped lagoon. The lagoon is connected to the Atlantic by a small passage between the hills. The beach is flanked by a boardwalk which runs through the dunes towards Salir Do Porto.

After following the boardwalk along the full length of the beach, we eventually reached a river lagoon that separated us from the towering dune. Nearby, there’s a sheltered river beach that’s especially popular with families looking to cool off in the refreshing water. A wooden bridge spans the river, linking the boardwalk to the car park at Salir do Porto.

The dune itself is a highlight—great fun for kids and a surprisingly good workout for parents. Climbing its 49‑metre height is no small feat, especially under the blazing Portuguese sun, but the views and the sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort.