City Secrets: Comporta, Portugal

Under the radar and super chic, Comporta has been a well- guarded secret among Europe’s toniest residents. This is the place where Caroline of Hanover, Christian Louboutin and Jacques Grange all drop off the grid to enjoy lazy summers in breezy villas a mere 90 minutes south of Lisbon. Ride over the endless sand dunes and through rice patty fields to swim in the gorgeous turquoise waters and lay down on immaculate almost empty beaches. Most of the local swells have homes, but now Comporta has several hotels where mere mortals can unwind in paradise. Check out our Comporta guide below.

STAY

The living area at Casas Na Areia, a small hotel made up of traditional thatched huts designed by architect Manuel Aires Mateus was chosen to represent Portugal at the Venice Architecture Biennale in 2010. The three chic guest cottages sleep eight people total; the living room cottage has a sand floor. 351-934-418-316; cottages from $273 per night.

The newest addition to the hotel scene is the Sublime Comporta hotel, which opened a year ago.Rest in the calm white rooms or swim in one of two outdoor pools. Estrada Nacional 261-1, 351-269-449-376, doubles from $217.

SHOP

CÔTE SUD, COMPORTA & QUINTA DO LAGO

Manet, the charming Portuguese owner of CÔTE SUD, brings together unique summer products from all over the world, handmade beach bags, light caftans and summer accessories. Largo de São João, nr. 3; 351-265-497-317.

Isabel de Carvalho’s store, A Loja do Museu do Arroz, has chic vintage and modern home goods. 351-927-153-677

EAT

Lunch on the terrace at Sal's, where everyone gathers for leisurely meals overlooking the beach. Praia de Pego; 351-265-490-120; entrees from $18.

BEACH

Carvalhal is Comporta’s most laid back beach. Here you can pretty much chill out  and have the beach to yourself.

by: Shop Latitude Team

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