Comporta Cool: A Local’s Guide To The Alentejo Hotspot

Comporta, an area nestled on Portugal’s Alentejo coast, encompassing several villages including Melides and Carvalhal, has been creeping onto the lips of discerning travellers. Unlike its bustling cousins in the Algarve, the area managed to stay under the radar thanks to strict codes of development – but visitors are increasingly being seduced by its unique blend of laid-back luxury and raw natural beauty, with undulating umbrella pines, thousand-year-old cork trees and over 60km of pristine beaches. Here it is not about being ‘seen’ and more about being anonymous. Plenty of royals and VIPs are known to have houses or frequent the area, but you would never know it; flip flops, sunglasses, sun hats and a straw bag is the uniform. This is where you come to unwind, reconnect with nature and embrace a slower pace of life. From hidden gems to must-try experiences, discover the charm of one of Europe’s last untouched coastlines.

An Insider’s Guide To Comporta, Portugal

Spatia

Where To Stay In Comporta

Sublime Comporta

This eco-chic retreat offers luxurious villas with private pools, surrounded by lush pine forests. Indulge in the spa, savour farm-to-table cuisine and explore the sprawling estate. Perfect for families and those seeking ultimate privacy. sublimecomporta.pt

Vermelho Melides

This boutique hotel, owned by Christian Louboutin, is a must see. Each room is a unique masterpiece, blending vintage finds with contemporary flair. Relax in the vibrant gardens, take a dip in the pool and enjoy exquisite dining at the hotel’s restaurant. Ideal for couples and design aficionados. vermelhohotel.com

Spatia Comporta

These ginormous minimalist-chic villas offer a tranquil escape with private pools and masses of privacy, due to their large plots and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There is also an exquisite clubhouse with a fabulous restaurant, two pools and tennis and padel courts. spatiacomporta.com

Quinta da Comporta

Situated in the beach village of Carvalhal, this wellness-focused resort offers a range of accommodations, from suites to private villas with pools. Rejuvenate at the spa, practise yoga and savour organic food while enjoying the serene views over rice fields. quintadacomporta.com

Casa Dos Pescadores

With a dream location metres away from Praia do Carvalhal, this newly renovated fisherman’s cottage features four bedrooms, a plunge pool and many outside areas from which to enjoy its unique position. Perfect for a stay with family or friends. carvalhalbeachhouse.com

Cá na Serra

Situated in the hills of Melides, this house is a nature lover’s paradise. It has three bedrooms and far reaching views. mui.pt

Cavalariça

Where To Eat

• Cavalariça: Located in old horse stables, this charming restaurant serves innovative dishes with a focus on local ingredients. cavalarica.com
• Mesa: A relative newcomer, Mesa has quickly made a name for itself thanks to the incredible food and service. The ceviche is a fan favourite. mesacomporta.pt
• Dona Bia: For a more traditional experience, this restaurant is beloved for its seafood. (Call +351 265 497 557 to book)
• Gulato: Innovative ice cream. Make sure to try the Gulatissimo flavour. gulato.pt
• Jacaré: Vibey pizza spot with DJs for late-night drinks.
• JNcQuoi Deli: Open all day serving great coffee; worth a trip just for the interiors by JP Demeyer. jncquoi.com
• Simone Bakery: A typical French bakery serving baked goods and coffee.

Things To Do In Comporta

Riding on the beach… Explore the stunning coastline on horseback with Cavalos na Areia. cavalosnaareia.com

Surfing at Praia do Carvalhal… Catch some waves at this popular surf spot. surfincomporta.com

Dolphin watching in the Sado Estuary… Get up close to these gorgeous marine animals.

Explore the surrounding nature… Hike or bike through the dunes, rice fields and vineyards.

Picnic na Comporta… Known for their luxury picnic service on any beach of your choosing.

The best beaches to beeline… Praia do Carvalhal, Praia do Pego, Lagoa de Santo André, Praia da Aberta Nova and Galé.

Beach Clubs & Cafés To Know

• Sublime Comporta Beach Club: Enjoy fresh seafood and refreshing cocktails at this chic beach club overlooking the Atlantic. sublimecomporta.pt
• JNcQuoi Beach Club: Make a stop for lunch or rent one of the sun loungers at the region’s most luxe beach club, located at Pego beach, the favoured VIP spot. jncquoi.com
• Galé Beach Bar: Part of the CostaTerra development, this bar appears like a mirage on the beach. Come here for cocktails at dusk. costaterraclub.com
• Comporta Cafe: Book a lunch spot for great atmosphere, or the sunset DJ set. comportacafe.pt

Rice

Where To Shop In Comporta

The Life Juice

A boutique store in Comporta’s centre selling clothing, jewellery and other unique pieces.

Caju

Situated in Carvalhal, owner Helena has a super eye for detail and new emerging or hard-to- source brands.

Vida Dura

Known for its one- off homewares. Pottery lovers make a pilgrimage here.

Le Shed

Will open its doors in Comporta this summer with a selection of home goods and juices.

Rice

This lifestyle store in Comporta and newer outpost in Grândola offers a curated selection of clothing, accessories and home decor with a bohemian vibe.

Lavanda

Discover a treasure trove of vintage furniture, art and home accessories at this charming shop in Comporta.

Mercearia Gomes

A gourmet grocery store in Comporta and haven for food lovers, offering local delicacies, artisanal cheeses and wines.

Lusa Market

A pop-up within the Atlantic Club, this has a selection of small stores and is also a great pit stop for breakfast on the go.

Local Tips

• Hire… A car – essential to discover myriad beaches. As well as the main ones, you can also find deserted beaches, even in summer. Very few houses or hotels are walkable from the beach.
• Rent… A bike to explore the region or go from your accommodation to the beach. ebikescomporta.com
• Visit… The local market in Grândola for an authentic Alentejo experience. The largest market takes place at the end of August – a must if you love unique artisanal pieces.
• Book… Restaurants for July and August in advance.
• Pack… Mosquito repellant: the pesky insects come out in summer around sunset.