Comporta’s Hidden Gems

As Curated by Voyager Voice, Filipa de Abreu

Filipa de Abreu Voyager Voices Comporta - Voyager Club

comporta, portugal

Comporta is a magical corner of the world, only an hour and half drive from Lisbon. Ethereal in its essence, as time seems to stop, and where all the world's wants and stresses seem to be left behind. Its charm lies in the simple life attitude that so many of us seem to have forgotten in the runaround of our everyday lives. I love it, because most of the time I am barefoot with only a swimming costume, a pareo and a basket at hand. Here less really is more, a world away from the glitz of St Tropez or the nightlife of Ibiza. Here, it's love in a cabana! Leave your mobile phone at home, if you need to see someone, you will bump into them when you're meant to. Life here is spent between climbing sand dunes to be greeted by deserted beaches (even in mid august), long lunches with friends over grilled fish and cocktails at sunset. There is no need to bring heels, this truly is barefoot chic!

Filipa de Abreu - Comporta travel guide - Voyager Voices - Voyager Club

WHERE TO STAY...

The best is to rent a private villa.. Discover Voyager Club’s private villa collection. Stay at Hotel Quinta da Comporta… rustic charm meets contemporary minimalism. Imagined by Portuguese architect Miguel Câncio Martins, the hotel merges seamlessly with its surroundings, from the sun-bleached woods to white washed walls and wicker details. If you are looking for wellbeing, look no further. A sublime, peaceful, spacious and blissful concept in wellness. Spend the mornings at the beach...Hop on a bicycle or jump on the hotel shuttle if you are already enjoying life in the slow lane.

If you’re feeling adventurous, bring a board and brave the waves – 30km of pristine beaches. Spend all afternoon in the spa or for a little pre-dinner pamper. This is the place for a little r and r. Oh and did I mention they have the best beds in the world… You will run to breakfast!

Stay at Sublime if you are seeking nature. The hotel is surrounded by 17 hectares of umbrella pines and cork trees, wild sand dunes, wooden cabanas and private pools... this is your paradise. The perfect blend of nature and nurture. Ideal for couples and those seeking a little seclusion… The hotel also has an amazing spa where you can often find me! This summer Sublime are opening their new beach club…

Barracuda Apartment in the town of Cravalhal has to be one of my favourite places to stay. This super chic apartment has been immaculately decorated and curated by Alexandre Neimann who also runs the store below. Only a five minutes drive to the best beaches and rice fields. A plus point is when you walk out the door you are in the middle of the main shopping street (there is only one!!) The Jacques Grange store is right in front and here’s a tip… THE BEST crab curry in the world is only two doors away at Pica Peixe. You´re welcome!

WHERE TO EAT…

For long lunches on the beach with friends head to Sal (my absolute FAVOURITE for lunch!) Go barefoot, order one of every starter for the table followed by the freshly grilled fish. Also Dinis is perfect for a relaxed beach lunch and fresh seafood. If you want to push the boat ladies and gentleman (for a burger!) head to Sal Burger and order to your heart's desire. For cooler vibes, Jacare da Comporta is your place. If you fancy a freshly squeezed morning juice or indeed afternoon cocktail (personally I prefer the latter), go to Colmo bar. Last but not least, try Cavalariça for dinner.... A former horse stables converted into a cool and elegant restaurant… think white washed walls with blue and white striped seats (quite literally sitting in a modern stable) and the food is bistro style with a Comporta twist. A must.

Comporta’s beaches, photo credit portugalconfidential.com

WHAT TO DO…

Beaches Beaches and more beaches... the best ones are a secret!!! I’m not telling you! Horse riding.... with Cavalos na Areia. Even for professional riders, this is a celestial experience. Yoga with Comporta Yoga Shala. Also try open air pagoda yoga in the middle of the rice fields led by the kind and generous Tomas Mello Breyner. Walk through the sand dunes and rice fields. No better way to end the day than a little shopping in Comporta town.

But ultimately the best is to DO NOTHING.......

LISTEN TO FILIPA'S COMPORTA PLAYLIST

WHERE TO SHOP…

Lavanda Store- a cool store selling everything from home to clothing, beauty and accessories all carefully curated by Cathrine Austad. Cote Sud- The CHICEST selection of beachwear in town (I want everything) Stork Club by Jacques Grange with interiors by Jacques. Enough said…! Merceria Gomes- The most divine supermarket/ general store in the village. When you enter make sure to look up!! Barracuda Comporta.... a beautiful curation of vintage furniture by the talented Alexandre Neimann. Loja Museu do Arroz- Love this ethnic inspired store with a bohemian vibe. Buy fresh fruit from the side of the street. Vida Dura- flowers and homeware DIVINE!!!!! DIVINE!!! DIVINE!!! Visit for Carolina Irving fabrics and homeware. Finally, a true hidden gem, Nomina Melides.. a small store in Melides where literally I could buy it all. From clothes, to home to perfumes. Santa Maria de Novella, Vibi and Giberto Venezia.