Think You Know Portugal? Discover Comporta and Melides

When people think about a holiday in Portugal, the Algarve is often the first place that springs to mind and for a very good reason! But there's another side to Portugal that's well worth discovering.

Meet Comporta and Melides, two coastal destinations on Portugal's Alentejo coast, where wild Atlantic beaches, rice fields, beautiful design and places that offer a wonderfully laid-back way of life.

It's a part of Portugal that still feels a little under the radar, particularly Melides, which is quieter and less developed than its better-known neighbour, Comporta. And if you're travelling with older children or teenagers, there's lots to enjoy beyond the beach too. It's also easy to combine with a stay in Lisbon, making it a great option if you fancy a few days exploring the city before heading to the coast.

Where are Comporta and Melides?

Both are around 1 hour 45 minutes south of Lisbon, along Portugal's beautiful Alentejo coastline. They're relatively close to each other, around 25 minutes apart by car, but each has its own character.

Comporta is known for its long sandy beaches, rice fields, understated style and relaxed atmosphere. You'll find stylish places to stay, little boutiques and lots of great restaurants. Think pine trees, sandy paths and long stretches of Atlantic coastline.

Melides, a little further south, has a quieter, more rural feel. Alongside its traditional fishing village character, you'll find local restaurants and artisan shops. It has something of the Comporta of years gone by about it: less developed, with fewer hotels and a landscape that stretches beyond the coastline to rolling hills, pine forests and cork trees.

Five places to stay in Comporta and Melides

1. Spatia Comporta - for getting outdoors

If your idea of a holiday involves more than lying by the pool, Spatia Comporta is worth a look.  With a padel and tennis programme and plenty of outdoor space, there's lots of opportunity to get moving between lazy mornings and beach trips.

It's an option I'd consider for active families, particularly those travelling with teenagers who like to have things to do without every day needing to be planned.

2. Sublime Comporta - for a little breathing space

Sublime Comporta is all about being surrounded by nature, with beautiful cabanas and accommodation options ranging from two to five bedrooms.

That makes it an good option for families or groups who want to spend time together but also appreciate having their own space. There are also lots of outdoor activities to enjoy in the surrounding area.

3. Quinta da Comporta-  farmhouse style with a contemporary twist!

Set among the rice fields, Quinta da Comporta brings together the feel of a traditional farmhouse with contemporary design. It's a realy lovely example of what makes this part of Portugal so distinctive: natural surroundings, thoughtful architecture and a more understated approach to luxury.   If you love hotels with a real sense of place this is definitely worth a look.

4. AlmaLusa Comporta - for village life

AlmaLusa Comporta is right in the heart of Comporta village, with local restaurants and little shops just a wander away. The beach is around a 15-minute walk, too, which makes it a good option if you like having a bit going on around you and want everyone to have a little more independence.  There's also a rooftop bar, with DJ sets on Friday and Saturday evenings so there's a bit of atmosphere when you fancy it!

 5. Pa.te.os, Melides - for something a little different

Over in Melides, Pa.te.os stands out for its striking award-winning architecture and four individual houses set within the landscape.  The separate houses make it an great option for families travelling together, multi-generational holidays or a getaway with friends, particularly if you want to spend time together but also still having your own space.  It's also a reminder that where you stay can be part of the experience in its own right, especially in a destination where design and the surrounding landscape are such a big part of the appeal.

Are Comporta and Melides a good choice for a family holiday?

I think they're definitely worth considering, particularly if you're travelling with older children or teenagers. There's surfing, outdoor activities,  cycling, long beaches to explore and plenty of opportunities to get out and about. You can spend the morning doing something active, head out for a long lunch and then spend the afternoon on the beach.

The accommodation is another highlight and offers something varied - from spacious cabanas to individual houses and hotels surrounded by nature, there are options for different types of family and group trips.

It's worth thinking about location when choosing where to stay though. Some properties are close to village life, while others are much more secluded.  Trransport, car hire and how much you want to be able to explore independently are definitely things to think about.

This isn't the sort of place for a holiday where everything revolves around a large resort and lots of facilities. The appeal is more about the beaches, the surroundings, the food and the overall pace of life.

When is the best time to visit?

The warmer months are popular for beach holidays, of course. But the shoulder season – Spring and Autumn are also worth serious consideration, particularly if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and want to combine time outdoors with walking, cycling or discovering the surrounding area.

As with any Atlantic coastline, its worth knowing that the sea can be cooler than you might expect, even in summer! It's worth keeping that in mind if swimming in warm water is high on your list!

Fancy discovering a different side of Portugal?

Comporta and Melides are lovely reminders that there's so much more to Portugal than the destinations we already know.

And there's plenty more to discover beyond here, too, from the city and beaches of Lisbon and Cascais to Madeira's dramatic landscapes and the volcanic scenery of the Azores.

If you're thinking about Portugal and fancy exploring somewhere a little different, drop me a message. I'd love to help you find the right place to stay.