Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Despite its size, Figueira's main city beach gets packed in August. For more character and
some terrific surf, head north to
Buarcos
. From Figueira's
turismo
it's a 2km stroll along
the pleasant beachfront promenade to the south end of Buarcos. Alternatively,
AVIC
(
233 422 828)
runs buses (€1.35) every 45 minutes or so.
For more seclusion, continue around Cabo Mondego headland to
Praia de Quiaios
, about
10km north of Figueira da Foz.
Joalto
( 233 422 648)
buses run here from the bus station
(€2.40, 30 minutes) seven times daily (less at weekends).
South across the mouth of the Rio Mondego is
Praia de Cabedelo
, Figueira's prime surfing
venue; classes and rentals are available from
Escola de Surf da Figueira da Foz
(
918 703 363;
www.surfingfigueira.com
; Rua do Cabedelo 36, São Pedro; group/individual class €30/40, short-/longboard rental per
day €20/30)
.
A little further is
Praia de Gala
. AVIC buses run from the train station via the centre to
Cabedelo and Gala (both €1.35) every hour or so on weekdays (less often on weekends).
Festivals & Events
Festas da Cidade
The town festival carries on for two weeks at the end of June, with folk music, parades
and concerts.
FIESTA
Sleeping
Prices listed are for high season (July and August). Expect discounts of up to 40% in
winter. You may be approached in summer by locals offering private rooms: often a de-
cent deal.
Paintshop Hostel
( 233 436 633;
www.paintshophostel.com
; Rua da Clemência 9; dm/d €20/50; )
Set in a characterful
blue house in the old part of town, this top-of-the-line hostel offers great facilities for
backpackers and surfers, including bike, board and wetsuit rental, DVD library, free wi-fi
and breakfast, kitchen, pool table, and a great bar area out the back. There are weekly
BBQs and other events so you've got an instant social scene. The high-ceilinged dorms
are comfy and there are quiet private rooms at the top of the building. The English owners
HOSTEL
€
