Portugal is a destination of excellence for surfers as it boasts the greatest number of surf spots, located a short distance from one another, guaranteeing the existence of quality waves.
Surf is gaining ever increasing notoriety in Portugal, being clearly acknowledged as the principal surf destination in Europe and one of the best in the world. The relevance of this sector for the international image of the country is indisputable; consequently the department of Tourism of Portugal maintains a strong commitment to promoting it, in particular via the official website of Destination Portugal www.visitportugal.com.
These marketing efforts, fully developed on-line, can be found on the platform www.portuguesewaves.com, which brings together everything surfers need to know about surfing in Portugal as well as videos of well-known international surfers and a country map of the best spots for waves on the Portuguese coast. Portugal is a destination of excellence for surfers as it boasts the greatest number of surf spots, located a short distance from one another, guaranteeing quality waves throughout the year.
Portugal has the largest wave in the world, in Nazare; the largest in Europe, in Figueira da Foz; the stretch of coastline with more concentration of waves in Europe, in Ericeira; and consistent accessible waves for all levels in Viana do Castelo. It is estimated that the surf industry represents 400 million Euro for the Portuguese economy, according to data from the National Association of Surfers. Tourist animation companies linked to surf increased 13% since the beginning of 2014.
The Surf HPC in Viana do Castelo is the perfect destination for training surfers. The Surf HPC is an emblematic and innovating building suspended above the ground by structural pillars, which makes it possible to maintain the topography and minimise the impact on the system of dunes. Located in an environmentally classified area, ecological materials, such as cork (internationally benchmarked material), were used in its design. Designed with respect for the principles of sustainability and energy efficiency, integrating a geothermal system, solar panels and LED illumination (low consumption).
Facts and Figures
- Surf HPC 1
- Surf Schools: 8
- Surf shops: 4
- Surf House: 2
- Surf tourists: 5,000/year
- Turnover: €1,750,000 / year
- Tourist companies: 22
- Rural tourism: 16
- Camp sites: 2
- Local accommodation: 12
- Youth hostels: 2
- Restoration establishments: 87
- Tourist animation companies: 15
- Travel agencies: 9
- Tourist information stands: 2
- Monte de Santa Luzia: 1 million visitors a year
- Navío Hospital Gil Eannes: 40,000 visitors a year
Viana Nautical Land
Viana do Castelo
Alto Miño to visit