VIANA DO CASTELO
TOURISM
SURFING IN VIANA DO CASTELO
Consistent waves throughout the year, suitable for surfers of all levels.
Accessible beaches suitable for both beginners and competitive athletes.
Growing recognition as a top surfing destination both nationally and internationally.
TOURIST INFRASTRUCTURE
1 High Performance Surf Center (CAR Surf).
8 Surf Schools.
4 Surf Shops.
22 Tourism Companies.
16 Rural Tourism Units.
2 Camping Parks.
12 Local Accommodations.
87 Restaurants.
15 Tourist Entertainment Companies.
CAR SURF - HIGH PERFORMANCE SURF CENTER
The first infrastructure of its kind in Portugal and a European benchmark, combining athlete training with sports tourism.
Sustainable architecture: building suspended on pillars to preserve the topography and the dunes.
Construction using environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions (cork, geothermal system, solar panels, LED lighting).
Located in an environmentally protected area, ensuring compatibility between human activity and natural conservation.
Used by both professional surfers and tourists, it receives thousands of visitors annually and contributes to the international promotion of Viana do Castelo.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Santa Luzia Mountain : receives around 1 million visitors per year and offers panoramic views over the city, the river, and the sea.
Hospital Ship Gil Eannes : a landmark of Portuguese maritime heritage, visited annually by more than 40,000 people.
Historic Center : picturesque streets, lively squares, and iconic architecture that reflect centuries of history.
Nautical and nature routes : active tourism experiences on the Lima River and along the Atlantic coast.
