Technique & Technical Help

Portugal is home to my extended family, but also home to some of the best surf in the world, even if it does not command the media attention other places do. But that is quite alright according to most local surfers who would rather keep the place uncrowded. But I remember in the old surfing days, I belonged to one of the first generations of surfers to discover surfing in Portugal. AT the time, we were always excited when a foreigner or out of towner would pull in with surfboards in their vans.


We shared waves and after surfing we would enjoy talking story.
Things have changed quite a bit. New roads and " progress" have paved the way to visitors and campers from all over Europe, and allowed easy access to many magic "secret spots". Thankfully, the pure beauty of many of these spots remains unchanged, albeit a little more crowded.

The biggest difference from 25 plus years ago, is the amount of very good portuguese surfers, as opposed to a handfull of them way back when. And as usual we had to exercise proper SUP etiquette and restraint, as SUP is clearly the new threatening sport.  For respect to the locals I will abstain of mentioning names of the spots where the pictures where taken. BUt be sure that anywhere you travel on the west coast of Portugal, you will find world class waves and places to surf perfect waves and have space to do so.
The adventure does not stop there, however. grab the board and paddle the many reservoirs that populate the country.
You can be paddling a slow moving river and turn a corner and see a castle dating back to 1200.




More coming up, along with pictures.