Portugal is well known for its beautiful beaches, but if you're not a fan of sand getting everywhere, we have a great alternative to the beach for you this summer. Natural pools in Portugal can be hard to come by, but we've gone on a mission and put together a selection of the very best natural swimming pools in mainland Portugal and on the island of Madeira. Check out our recommendations of these "piscinas naturais" which is how you say natural pools in Portuguese.
Porto Moniz Natural Pools, Madeira
Our first stop takes us to the wonderful Natural Pools of Porto Moniz Portugal which are located on the island of Madeira. Madeira Island is home to some of Portugal's best natural pools and Porto Moniz arguably tops the list.
Is Porto Moniz worth visiting? Without a doubt, and this is why. Porto Moniz natural pools are unique due to their volcanic nature and became famous all over the world after their appearance on National Geographic and as part of a CNN feature of the best natural pools in the world. The pools were formed by lava cooling and for the cost of just 3 euros, you'll be able to take full advantage of these beautiful natural swimming pools and unbeatable sea views.
Seixal Natural Pools, Madeira
Staying on the island of Madeira, this natural swimming location is the closest thing you'll find a natural infinity pool in Portugal. The Seixal Natural Pools on Madeira Island are also of volcanic origin and these tidal pools are perfect for a relaxing swim and exploring.
With lots of caves and unique rock formations and rock pools to discover, possibly the best part of these lava rock pools in Madeira is that they are free of charge! However, be warned, the water here is known for being very cold and isn't for the faint hearted!
Azenhas do Mar Natural Pools, Sintra
Moving on to mainland Portugal, we're off to the province of Sintra which is home to the wonderful coastal village of Azenhas do Mar. When you arrive at Azenhas do Mar you drive over a bridge which will invite you to stop and take in the picture-perfect scenery which is especially beautiful at sunset.
Take the time to take a walk down between the cliffs where you will come across a small beach with a swimming pool which is filled with water from the sea and overlooked by a charming selection white houses that hangs on the side of the cliff.
Tidal pools of Leça de Palmeira, Porto
In the Porto area you will find the wonderful Tidal pools of Leça de Palmeira, known in Portuguese as "Piscina das Marés" and despite not being completely natural swimming pools, we felt the need to include them in our selection nevertheless. The architect who designed these wonderful coastal pools took full advantage of the surrounding rock formation and the result is a perfect combination of man-made and natural.
These swimming pools in Northern Portugal are well worth a visit, just keep in mind when planning your trip that the pools can get rather busy at the weekends or during the main holiday periods.
Ponte de São João, Rio Coura, Viana do Castelo
Our final stop on our tour of Portugal's natural swimming pools is in Viana do Castelo where you will find quite possibly the most natural swimming pool in Portugal. This pool in the Coura River isn't the easiest place to get to, but the reward is well and truly worth it, as a steep track leads you to this natural pool where the turquoise waters are the star of the show.
The mountain water which springs from the Monastery of São João and makes for a truly magical experience and is well worth the trek for any lovers of wild swimming.
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