The secrets of Melides in Portugal

The growing popularity of Comporta is also taking its toll on the towns and villages surrounding the Herdade da Comporta. Such is the case of Melides, a charming refuge located a little further south, a 20-minute drive away. Here you’ll find a pretty whitewashed town with blue-coloured houses, a covered market in the center and, to the west, a magnificent lagoon and the same long, unspoilt beaches as in Comporta.

Melides in Portugal, an authentic Alentejo village

The village of Melides belongs to the municipality of Grândola. It is located on the Alentejo coast, 130 km south of Lisbon. Melides has become increasingly well-known in recent years, thanks to the development of tourism in the region and its many assets: tranquility, wild nature, a charming village, activities and mild weather all year round. In recent years, a number of villas and architect-designed homes have sprung up along the lagoon. But despite an increasingly dynamic real estate market, Melides remains a place frequented mainly by locals. In 2023, the big news is the Christian Louboutin hotel.

The village of Melides isn’t very big, but it’s particularly charming. The atmosphere is quiet, friendly and very pleasant. A traditional whitewashed church and a covered market enliven local life. Farmers and fishermen sell fresh fish, vegetables and fruit from their farms. A stroll through the narrow streets of the ancient village center reveals 18th and 19th century properties with period wrought-iron joinery and balconies. The ruins of the former “Santa Marinha” church (late 15th century) are also worth a visit. Its impressive pillars, walls and buttresses are still clearly visible.

Melides lagoon in Portugal

The special feature of Melides is the large lagoon that crosses the land and flows down to the beach. This body of water flows through the pine forest, rice fields and meadows of Melides. It creates a natural area rich in flora and fauna. Since 2010, it has been classified as a “protected area of national interest”. A bird observatory has been set up in the heart of the lagoon. Here, you can watch in peace for the ducks, birds of prey and wading birds that feed here. Information is also available on the species that can be encountered in the lagoon, such as the sandpiper, the crested or the common stonechat.

The lagoon is accessible from both shores. The south shore is served by a paved road and the north shore by a dirt track. Another original way to discover the lagoon is by stand-up paddle. Ana and Daniel, from Surf in Comporta, offer unforgettable paddle rides in the Melides lagoon at sunset. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a sport in a unique, unspoilt environment, making this activity one of the top 10 things to do in Comporta.

 

Melides Beach

Melides Beach is a long stretch of sand separating the sea from Melides Lagoon. Between these two bodies of water, Praia de Melides offers a wild and splendid setting that is a sight to behold. The sunset is magnificent. An ideal moment for photography enthusiasts when the last rays of the sun are reflected in the lagoon.

On the beach, the Lagoa o Mar restaurant offers snacks and more elaborate dishes in a relaxed atmosphere, with your feet in the sand. Ideal for children! Sun loungers and parasols are available for hire throughout the summer. Just ten minutes south of Melides town center, access by road is easy. The beach also has ample parking.

Viga Beach

Opposite Praia de Melides, on the other side of the lagoon, lies one of the last totally unspoilt beaches in the Alentejo: Praia da Vigia. Here you’ll find transparent waters and fine white sand as far as the eye can see. It is particularly popular with paragliders, who find here an escarpment over five meters high and a strong wind. It’s the ideal place to launch your flight and take in the breathtaking scenery. Heading south on the EN261, take the road signposted “cimetière” and continue until the dune appears ahead. Cross it and enjoy your discovery.

Horseback riding

Throughout the year, Passeios a Cavalo in Melides offers unique horseback rides through the wild landscapes of the Alentejo. You can choose from rides on the beach or in the hills of the Serra de Grândola, suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. It’s a great way to discover breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside and coastline. Luís Lamas: +351 917 474 865 / info@passeiosacavalomelides.com

Surfing at Melides in Portugal

Dreamsea Surf Camp is located in the pine forest next to the magnificent Galé beach. They offer surfing programs suitable for all levels and physical conditions. The aim is to learn and improve your skills and, more importantly, acquire the knowledge you need to continue training and progress on your own. Dreamsea Surf Camp: +34 662580012 / portugal@dreamseasurfcamp.com

Melides Fair (feira)

The Melides fair takes place every year on the third weekend in November. Visitors come in droves. You’ll find a range of handicrafts from the Alentejo and Algarve regions, including wicker baskets, wooden chairs and clay sculptures. You can also sample local specialities such as dried fruit, Alentejo bread, “Alcomonias” and “Pinhão Candy”, two typical cakes, and regional wine. Performances and folk dances enliven the event throughout the weekend.

Flor de Sal

This establishment stands out from the other restaurants near Melides beach. It’s particularly pleasant for a sunset dinner. You can enjoy small dishes and tapas by chef Sandra Rito. With its contemporary Portuguese cuisine, this is Melides’ “chic” restaurant. Flor de Sal: +351 960 311 057 We advise you to make a reservation for your dinner.

Twopack kitchen – Country picnic

Marta & António take you on a gourmet barbecue in the middle of nature. They share their delicious cuisine inspired by their travels around the world. An original experience not to be missed! Marta: +351 915 433 788 / twopacktravel@gmail.com

Tia Rosa Rotisserie

Tia Rosa is a duck “churrasqueira”. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the cuisine is family-style and generous. You can order duck or half-duck grilled with orange sauce. For those who don’t like duck, other dishes are available. All these dishes are typical of the Alentejo coast. Tia Rosa: Fontainhas do Mar Melides – Melides / +351 269 907 144

Tia Jesuína Bakery

In Vale Figueira, you’ll find the Tia Jesuína bakery offering authentic Alentejo bread. This bread is increasingly difficult to find in the region, so don’t hesitate to visit this address.

Quinta do Lourenço

It’s an ever-popular restaurant on the EN261. Come and taste the house specialty of meat mixed with clams and shrimps. The migas with meat are delicious, as are the fish and seafood cataplanas. At weekends, snails are a special treat! Quinta do Lourenço: Estrada National 261 – Melides / +351 269 907 329

Tosca

A new restaurant in Melides, located on the EN261, with divine pastas and pizzas. But the menu is promising: everything is varied. Fish, meat, all with fresh, organic ingredients. Pets are welcome and the decor is magnificent.

The Tourist Office in Melides, Portugal, is located in the old mill in the center of the village. It provides information on accommodation, rooms, tourism, activities, weather forecasts… It also offers exhibitions and sales of artisanal products. Don’t miss the chance to visit coastal villages such as Comporta, Carvalhal, Muda and Brejos. Tourist Office: largo 25 de Abril – Melides / + 351 269 979 066 / turismo@cm-grandola.pt