Figueira da Foz, Silver Coast, Portugal

Figueira da Foz situated at the mouth of the River Mondego on Portugal's Silver Coast (Costa da Prata) is one of the liveliest resorts on the west coast.

Around 201 kilometres north of Lisbon and 140 kilometres south of Porto, it is easy to locate from the country's two main airports and has a good level of infrastructures. Figueira, as it is locally know, became popular during the early 20th century as a holiday destination.

However Figueira da Foz is a thriving resort it is also a major deep sea fishing port and the harbour, which is slightly south of the town's stunning Blue Flag beaches, is a haven of activity all year round.

The resort of Figueira arcs round some of the widest and sandiest beaches in Portugal and it earned itself the nickname of Rainha das Praias (Queen of the Beaches) due to the sheer number of magnificent beaches in and around it's boundaries. There are in fact 13 beaches, so whether you want to stretch out in the sun, take a stroll on the sand, cast a line or surf there is plenty to choose from.

Arcing around the main beaches is a long and wide promenade lined with a plethora of cafes and fresh seafood restaurants. Back from the beach the old town of Figueira is a maze of cobbled streets and cafes.

Figueira is also home to one of the largest casinos on the Iberian peninsular and this can be found in the cobbled backstreets of the town. Figueira also boasts a number of retail parks and shopping centres ensuring you can relax with a little retail therapy during your stay.