Vila Praia de Ancora is a thriving seaside town at the mouth of the Ancora estuary. Sea and sand are the main interest here, with good beaches in the town, although these get very busy in the summer season. About 5km south is Afife beach, one of the best for surfing and big enough for you to find a quiet spot. Moledo, about 4km north, is another fine beach and the most northerly before the Minho river.

The beach at Vila Praia de Ancora

By way of historical interest, there are 2 old forts, the Fortim de Cao and Forte de Lagarteira, down by the sea, plus a grisly legend about the origin of the name of the town. King Ramiro is supposed to have punished his unfaithful wife, Queen Urraca by throwing her into the river. He finessed this by tying an anchor (ancora) around her neck ...

Afife beach (photo: Christopher Page)

Rather more agreeably, the busy fishing harbour ensures a fresh and abundant catch and there are plenty of restaurants to help you enjoy.

Santa Marinha church, Vila Praia de Ancora (photo: PatriciaR)

Vila Praia de Ancora is easy to get to, whether by road or by train direct from Porto and Viana do Castelo. You can base yourself in the town about 500m from the beach at our Estrela apartments (1 and 2 bedrooms for up to 22 people in all), or at Afife village, where we have two villas with private pools, each to sleep 8 so ideal for groups looking for beach and surf, families holidaying together or both.

Do please contact us with any queries.