From the blue of the sky to the emerald green of the sea, from the chirping of birds to the crashing of waves, from the perfume of the hills’ pines to the scent of seaweed and saltwater carried by the sea breeze… Salir do Porto is an oasis of natural beauty and tranquillity that is conveniently located near the Silver Coast’s most popular attractions!
There are few locations where one may exist in such perfect harmony with nature. One of these locations is Salir do Porto. Salir do Porto, located on the south side of the stunning shell-shaped bay of S. Martinho do Porto, is known for its natural beauty. A blend of countryside and sea, Portugal shows its simple pleasures in vibrant hues and enables you to let your imagination go wild.
Salir do Porto is a typical Portuguese village, serene and tranquil. A traditional fishing and sailing village, the village retains a strong sense of community today, notably during its annual August events, when the village streets are illuminated and inhabitants share their heritage, handicrafts, and regional foods around joyous tables. Dancing to live music during the evening concerts or taking part in the procession in honour of Our Lady of Conception is without a doubt the highlights of the festivities… a fusion of ancient customs and religion in which the town joins together to honour century-old traditions.
There is a great deal to see and do…
Salir do Porto is home to a thriving Portuguese resident community that has a strong connection to the water. Salirenses (people of Salir) are famed for their cheerful demeanour, which is attributed to the fact that they awake with the sun on their faces. Even in the winter, the sun shines on the majority of days, and there is never a shortage of sights and activities!
The wooden paths connecting Salir do Porto and São Martinho do Porto beach are popular sites for a peaceful stroll or jog. The dunes surrounding the bay are a wonderful area to interact with nature, with the fresh ocean wind and sound of the waves providing companionship.
If you prefer more remote locations, the hilltops connecting the village to Serra do Bouro are covered with various hiking trails ideal for wandering through the marine scenery, passing several historic windmills and the occasional herd of goats and sheep.
On the cliffs near the village, fishermen and locals occasionally stroll along the slopes that lead to several secluded pebbled beaches known as “Quebradas.”
Salir do Porto’s river beach is idyllic for people who enjoy swimming and water sports! From paddle boarding to canoeing, the bay’s quiet waters invite you to unwind while taking in the surrounding scenery.
The beach is normally peaceful, except in July and August when it is increasingly crowded with holidaymakers. And even then, it is the ideal location for people seeking a retreat from large tourist resorts.
A modest parking area and cafés are located directly across from the beach, where you can have an ice cream or snack following your dive! In the summer, you may also spend the day at the oceanic pool located directly above the café and adjacent to the beach entrance.
However, one of Salir do Porto beach’s ex-libris is clearly its massive dune. With a height of more than 50 metres, only a select handful are capable of ascending the dune without pausing for air! However, the climb is definitely worth it, not only for the stunning views from the summit but also for the enjoyment of the descent. Some locals choose to roll or slide down the dune, while others prefer to run and finish with a dip in the waters at the bottom!
Surrounded by history and tradition…
Salir do Porto is also steeped in history, with legends passed down from generation to generation recounting tales of faith and bravery from local elders.
Salir’s historic Customs House, dubbed “alfândega,” is located midway between the beach and the bay’s edge. Today, all that remains are the ruins from the sixteenth century. The path to the remains is narrow but well worth it for the beautiful view over the bay provided by the old stone walls.
This is where the caravels of D. Afonso V and D. João II were built, enabling the Portuguese to discover the world. According to legend, several of the caravels used in the most significant Portuguese nautical discoveries of the time were built here, including the famed ‘Nau So Gabriel,’ which captained Vasco da Gama’s armada to India and also participated in the discovery of Brazil.
Continue down the shoreline towards another pilgrimage destination, the “Pocinhas de Salir” freshwater spring. These mineral-rich spring waters have long been prized for their therapeutic benefits. Not only for drinking and treating digestive disorders but also for bathing in the freshwater pools that occur on the rocks during low tide.
However, it is on the walk to the Chapel of Sant’ Ana, which is located on Salir’s northernmost tip, where the bay meets the sea, that the residents’ religion is revealed in all its beauty.
The church is reached by a dirt trail that begins on the left side of the small swimming pool in Salir do Porto. The journey to get there is around a kilometre long and is surrounded by greenery and birds chattering. You can also access it by car along a dirt road on the left side of the town church that leads near to the chapel (the final section of the track requires around 500 metres of walking). Whichever route you take, the arrival is always remarkable, presenting a breathtaking view of the open Atlantic sea on the western side and the bay and settlement of So Martinho do Porto on the eastern side.
This chapel is one of the region’s oldest, dating from the 12th century. For hundreds of years, families travelled to this hallowed location in prayer to bid farewell to fishermen and sailors, and boats manufactured at the customs site were blessed here prior to heading out to sea. Until the early twentieth century, religious processions led by villagers from Salir do Porto to the chapel continued.
Another wonderful location to appreciate the views is at the summit of the town of Salir do Porto. The “miradouro” provides an excellent vantage point for viewing the bay and adjacent valley, which was formerly a lagoon that extended all the way up to the neighbouring settlement of Alfeizero.
Salir do Porto is also popular with adventure enthusiasts, particularly mountain bikers and hikers. The route connecting the settlement to Foz do Arelho provides ideal conditions for various sports, as well as breathtaking natural scenery.
Salir do Porto is close to several famous Silver Coast locations: to the north, the famous Nazare beach with its giant waves; to the south, the beautiful beach of Foz de Arelho and the Obidos Lagoon; to the west, the vibrant city of Caldas da Rainha with its unique outdoor farmers’ market; and to the east, the mediaeval town of Obidos, surrounded by history and home to some of Portugal’s best cultural and leisure events!
