River beaches
Whether you are looking for a natural landscape with all the luxuries of modern times or a more rustic experience in the middle of wild nature, the river beaches of Central Portugal are your destination of choice.
Between valleys and mountains are kept the coolest secrets of Central Portugal: its river beaches. The perfect destination for a refreshing swim, a peaceful morning with the family or a fun-filled afternoon with friends, the river beaches in this region combine the best of nature and well-being.
Whether you are looking for a natural landscape with all the luxuries of modern times or a more rustic experience in the middle of wild nature, the river beaches of Central Portugal are your destination of choice.
Let's start with the river beach at the highest point in the country. At an altitude of 1,437 meters, the beach at Vale do Rossim, in the heart of Serra da Estrela, extends over a bed of water that attracts all those seeking refuge from the mountain heat. Not far away, we find Loriga Beach – the only river beach located in a glacial valley. On the banks of the Mondego River, the Aldeia Viçosa Beach extends for more than 10 metres to create a pool of crystalline waters with a water slide!
Further south, near Castelo Branco, there are many river beaches that become true oases in the hottest summer months. Refresh yourself at Aldeia da Ruiva Beach, be dazzled by the natural landscape of Sertã Beach or spend the afternoon fishing beside the floating pools at Malhadal Beach. In Penacova, Praia do Reconquinho Beach offers you a long sandybeach with a picnic area and a campsite nearby if you want to spend the night on the banks of the Mondego River. The picturesque beach in the village of Foz d’Égua is the ideal destination for those looking to combine the best of rural charm with leisure in nature. This beach is close to Aldeia de Piódão and is bathed by the streams of Piódão and Chãs D’Égua. It has an entire wooded area with excellent leisure areas. This appealing place is known for its clear, fresh waters (which, due to the current, are carving the stone blocks) in perfect harmony with the surrounding countryside. This aspect is due to the various shale constructions, from mills to houses and bridges in the village. It was classified as a property of public interest due to its natural beauty in the architectural exhibition. It is inserted in the Aldeias do Xisto (schist villages). The construction of the weir led to the creation of the said beach that meets all the conditions for the practise of bathing.
