Odemira: Travel and tourism

Enjoying a mild climate, an extensive coastline and a landscape full of contrasts, with hills or plains always exhibiting an abundant vegetation, the county of Odemira has become a popular holiday destination.

The beaches near Vila Nova de Milfontes, on the sleepy estuary where the river Mira meets the sea, are among the most famous due to the excellent conditions for water sports (namely surf) and to the beauty of the village, with its small castle which once defended the coast from pirates and its outdoor cafés, bars and restaurants, still preserving a familiar atmosphere.

To the south, the unspoilt beach of Almograve lies under impressive cliffs and the surrounding landscape is known for its natural beauty, with fountains of water springing spontaneously along the shoreline.

The small and rural village of Santa Clara-a-Velha lies between hills and groves of holm oaks; the pousada at the majestic Santa Clara Dam, with its banks full of trees, is a magnificent place to rest.

At Zambujeira do Mar, the dazzling beauty of the beach of white sand is enhanced by the tall basalt cliffs.

Although away from the coast, the town of Odemira is also undeniably attractive, with its whitewashed houses, parks and gardens bathed by the calm waters of the river Mira.

The local gastronomy is varied, reflecting the county's diversity, but is specially proud of serving fresh fish, from the famous grilled sea bream to fish stew, percebes (barnacles), shellfish, conger's stew and seafood rice.