Hertz Campers is often associated with summer, long days, beaches, road trips, etc. But there is a less obvious season when the Campers continues to be the ideal partner: WINTER.
Winter in Portugal has a unique beauty. The coast changes colour, the sea gains strength, the beaches become empty. The Atlantic winter becomes more serious, more silent, more beautiful, ideal for a different style of travel.
On this trip, travelling in a Campers, professional surfer and environmentalist Miguel Blanco explored two iconic spots on the Portuguese coast: Figueira da Foz and Peniche. A journey that demonstrates the versatility of a Campers, which is not limited to just one season.
Why is Campers also perfect for winter?
In summer, the Campers is a promise of freedom. In winter, it is a tool.
Winter calls for a different kind of adjustability. It calls for preparation, it calls for shelter when the weather turns harsh, it calls for autonomy, it calls for a flexible plan with shorter days.
With a vehicle equipped and ready for the road, Campers allows you to experience winter with a different mindset: less dependence, less logistics and more scope for exploration.
Beaches for surfing in Figueira da Foz
Miguel Blanco started in Figueira da Foz, one of the most iconic surfing spots in Portugal. It was the Americans who, in the last century, began to explore these waves, bringing a culture and lifestyle that still marks the city.
He passed by Praia do Cabedelo, where he had the opportunity to surf one of his favourite spots in the region. Where the sea meets the Mondego River, the waves are powerful in winter and the line-ups are empty, a perfect session for Miguel Blanco. The energy of this area is celebrated throughout the year in events such as Gliding Barnacles, a surf, art and community festival that embodies the cultural richness of the region.
A few minutes away, Buarcos was another must-see. One of the most iconic waves on the Portuguese coast, a long right-hander that challenges even the most experienced surfers. It is also a fishing village steeped in history and tradition.
Miguel's recommendations: For those looking for a different perspective, Miguel Blanco recommends climbing the Serra da Boa Viagem. Above the city, you will find viewpoints over the Atlantic, trails among pine trees and breathtaking views. When it comes to gastronomy, a great suggestion is the restaurant ‘A Caçarola’. This is where Miguel Blanco had lunch during his visit to Figueira da Foz. Traditional cuisine, fresh fish, family atmosphere.
Beaches for surfing in Peniche
Peniche carries centuries of history in its streets and walls. It was a fortress, a fishing port, a political prison. Today, it is the undisputed surfing capital of Portugal, hosting a stage of the World Championship Tour, the stage for the world's surfing elite, on the legendary Supertubos beach.
But what also makes Peniche special is its young and international atmosphere. In winter, when many destinations fall asleep, the city of Peniche remains alive. In addition, the design of the Peniche peninsula is something rare: its shape, exposure to swell, protected bays. It is this unique geography that allows you to find waves in virtually all conditions, especially in winter.
Baleal was the epicentre of Miguel's trip, passing by Bar do Bruno, a mandatory meeting point for wave checks.
He then headed to the north coast, one of his favourite places, with its unique cinematic landscape. It offers surf spots such as Almagreira, Pico da Mota and Praia d'El Rei, which in winter provide unparalleled scenery and surfing conditions. As expected, Miguel Blanco couldn't resist and went surfing at Almagreira.
Miguel's recommendations: For those who are just starting to surf, Miguel Blanco suggests Praia do Baleal or Cantinho da Baía, which offer conditions for all levels throughout the year, and with a privileged view of the beautiful island of Baleal. For lunch or dinner, don't miss the opportunity to visit ‘Tasca do Joel’. A place with soul and authenticity that serves food with the taste of the sea and tradition.
Winter awaits you with a Hertz Campers
The Atlantic winter is for those who value authenticity, the power of nature and the freedom to explore, far from the crowds. With a Hertz Campers, you have mobility, comfort and the possibility to follow the coast at your own pace, when it is at its rawest. Adventure has no season. But if it did, it would be winter.
In addition to Peniche and Figueira da Foz, Ericeira is also a paradise for surfers. Find out more about surfing in Ericeira here.
Want to see Miguel Blanco's adventure with Hertz Campers? Follow the mini clips we're sharing on our Instagram and start getting inspired for your next winter road trip!