The secrets of Carvalhal in Portugal

Carvalhal is one of the seven villages that make up Herdade da Comporta. It is in the Alentejo region, 10 minutes by car south of Comporta. It is surrounded by splendid rice paddies that change the colours of the landscape according to the seasons – a wonderful sight! The weather is mild year round. This allows you to visit Carvalhal in Portugal during the off-season, when the tourists are absent, and to enjoy the “tranquilidade” of the villages of Comporta. It is a perfect place for a holiday in Portugal. This small traditional village also has the advantage of lying next to the Sado nature reserve and the beautiful sandy beaches of Carvalhal and Pego. They are renowned for their wild beauty and famous beach restaurants, such as the Sal Restaurante or O’Dinis.

The local community keeps the region alive throughout the year, while in summer it is the destination of an increasing number of foreign visitors. They are attracted by the growing popularity of Comporta and its region. The village of Carvalhal in Portugal has a long main street with one of the most beautiful hotels of the region, as well as antique and home decoration shops and a number of typical cafes and restaurants. The homes of the local residents and tourist accommodation are centred around this street and spread as far as the beaches and the flamboyant rice paddies.

Home rental in Carvalhal

The best solution to take advantage of Carvalhal and its peaceful atmosphere is to rent one of the region’s typical houses. Inspired by the cabins of fishermen, these “casas da Comporta” are built of weathered wood with thatched roofs. They are scattered throughout the countryside, near the rice paddies. These casas are one of the highlights of your stay in Portugal.

Espírito de Comporta

Espirito da Comporta offers rentals of traditional Comporta cabins and villas. Located opposite the rice paddies and near the beaches, it is the ideal place to stay in Carvalhal.
The architecture follows the codes of the region’s fishermen’s cabins, decorated in simple and warm style. The services and attentions of the hosts will make your stay unforgettable. Discover here our holiday rentals in Comporta.

Beaches and beach restaurants

Carvalhal Beach / Praia do Carvalhal

Sublime Beach Club / Sal restaurant

This beach is located just at the exit of the village of Carvalhal. It attracts locals and tourists alike. Praia do Carvalhal is bordered by dunes and rice paddies that are home to many species of insects, birds and flowers. Completely integrated in this ecosystem, Carvalhal beach is very pleasant and seems untouched by the passage of time.
It is the place to go for delicious grilled fish, clams and traditional Portuguese dishes. Children can play in the little huts on the sand at the foot of the restaurant.
Sun loungers and beach umbrellas are available for rent throughout the summer. Showers and toilets are also available on site. Do not miss the sunset on this wonderful beach.

Pego Beach / Praia do Pego

Jncquoi / Praia na Comporta

Splendid Pego beach stretches over 4 kilometres. This infinite expanse of beach is incredible, offering golden sand, unspoilt vegetation and a surrounding pine forest. You will feel like Robinson Crusoe, lost at the end of the world.
With a bit of luck you may catch sight of the Sado dolphins as they swim by Praia do Pego – a magical moment!

Restaurants in the village

Quinta da Comporta Restaurant

The restaurant area of the Quinta da Comporta Hotel enjoys a splendid view of the rice paddies of Carvalhal. Chef Joao Sousa prepares Mediterranean and international cuisine, consisting of fresh, natural and regional produce. Tasty dishes in a beautiful setting!

Rua Alto de Pina, 2 / +351 265 112 390 / info@quintadacomporta.comDeli Jncquoi

One more place at jncquoi with all the charm and flavor of those who know the restaurant. Open all day long! With indoor and outdoor space, the experience is incredible.

Av. 18 de Dezembro 15, 7570-779 Comporta

O Diniz

Diniz has returned to a new place. Close to Carvalhal beach, the specialties of the sea are still surprising. Those who knew the old place will remember the taste of the menu.

Rua Dos Arrozais, 7570-782 / + 351 967 977 193

Sal Burger (summer)

The best burgers in Comporta are to be found at Sal Burger. A food-truck is installed in the heart of Carvalhal village, as well as large tables in a ‘flea market’ style. A TV screen is installed on match nights.

R. 18 de Junho, São Pedro da Cova / +351 937 058 514

*Picture from the instagram of Sal Burguer

Activities & shopping

Boat Trip

An activity only for the summer, but the fun is guaranteed. Contact us to book your experience on the Sado River and Atlantic Ocean. Diving over crystal-clear waters and stopping off at deserted beaches is undoubtedly one of the best experiences in the region.

Surfing

Portugal is definitely Europe’s best surfing destination. With a mild climate, the Atlantic Ocean and long wild coasts… The conditions are ideal to ride the waves throughout the year.
The wild coast of Comporta offers magnificent surfing spots that are still rarely visited. There are two schools to accompany you for the practice of this sport:

Surf In Comporta – Carvalhal Beach – Praia do Carvalhal / + 351 962 475 961 / surfincomporta@gmail.com

Imagine School – Pego Beach – Praia do Pego / +351 927 258 486 / info@imaginesurfschool.com

Relaxation

Spa Oryza offers a selection of therapeutic rituals using natural products, beauty workshops and yoga. It is also equipped with a steam room and a beautiful indoor swimming pool.

Rua Alto de Pina, 2 / +351 265 112 390 / info@quintadacomporta.com

Shopping

In the centre of Carvalhal you will find various quality boutiques that deserve your attention:

Second-hand shops

If you like to take advantage of your holidays and free time to hunt for antiques, here are a few addresses of interest:

Velharias Rua de Alto de Pina

Don’t hesitate to search through this shed full of furniture, piles of tableware, old books and toys. The largest items (tables, benches, carts) are to be found outside on the pavement. It is a place where you can often unearth old glass wine bottles in large sizes and different colours.

Rua de Alto de Pina

Santa Maria Velharias

You will find this boutique in the center of the village. This family business deals in the purchase and sales of antiques, collector’s items and curios.

Avenida 18 de Dezembro, 16

Velharias Júlio Luís Maria

It is a place where families from Lisbon come to hunt for trinkets for their holiday homes or unique gift ideas. The shop built of wooden planks and corrugated iron is located by the side of the road that leads to the beaches. You are sure to find treasures that are waiting to be carried away.

Estrada Nacional, 261

Velharias Sara

This shop is opposite the one owned by Júlio Luís Maria. It is just as enticing. You will find find sets of tableware, small items of furniture and antique objects.

Estrada Nacional, 261

“Home & design” shops

Caju Fashion home café

A well-kept treasure in Comporta that combines a café-bar with a wide selection of clothing, accessories, cosmetics and decoration. Now in a new localisation.

Avenida 18 de Dezembro,13 / @caju_comporta

Stork Club

The boutique of designer Jacques Grange and art gallery owner Pierre Passebon offers decorative objects, tableware and magnificent ceramics.

Avenida 18 de Dezembro, 12-14 / +351 265 497 766

Tourist information

The tourism office offers tourist information about the region as well as on accommodation, the visits and the activities available in Carvalhal and its surroundings. Estrada da Praia / +351 265 490 099 / turismocarvalhal@gmail.com