Porto Beach Lodge (Árvore, Portugal)

ABOUT THE SURF CAMP

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LOCATION AND SURF CONDITIONS

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The Beach lodge is located only 400 meters to the sea, you can reach our "home beach" with 3 surf spots in a few minutes foot walk.

The several kilometers stretched sandy beach is largely protected and part of the natural dune landscape of the Nature Reserve of Mindelo.

Highly considered as a great surf destination, attracts surfers from all over the world. Within a radius of only 30 kilometers, 25 surf beaches offer a wide range of excellent waves suited both for absolute beginners and pro surfers.

 Having that many options and alternatives, our experienced surf coaches will always find the surf spot with the best conditions for your level and line ups where you hardly have to share the waves with other surfers –  even in high season.

The north provides a maritime climate with mild winters (13° C/ 55° F) and warm summers (28° C/ 82° F). The water temperatures vary between 14° C (57° F) in winter and 19° C (66° F) during the summer months.

The biggest swells arrive between the months of November and April and create the highest waves at the North coast of Portugal. In the summer months, however, the waves are smaller and therefore ideal for learning and catching the first small green walls.

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CAMP CHARACTER

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 The Porto Beach Lodge have a family and relaxed atmosphere with a touch of historical flair.

Are framed by a beautiful Mediterranean natural garden with large green areas inviting for walks and rest in the shades of the trees.

Is ideal for all ages, child-friendly but dogs are not allowed.

At Porto Beach Lodge the main language is Portuguese, but our staff speaks English, Spanish, Italian and French.

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CAMP OPERATOR

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 The PORTO SURF COMPANY (PSC) is founded by the three surf buddies Hugo Taipa, Stefan Strauss and João Cavalho. For decades they have not only been on the surfboard themselves, but also live and work in the world of surfing. Each of them has set his own individual focus, such as competition surfing, the organization of surf competitions, writing surf books, running a surf school as well as the organization and implementation of surf camps and surf trips.

The basic idea was to create a place in the north of Portugal where beach lovers, surfers and friends of urban experiences and culture can find a common place to go and enjoy a relaxed holiday in a family atmosphere. To achieve this we have created two locations in Porto: One directly in the center of the city and the other right at the beach, 25 kilometers further north.

Today PORTO SURF COMPANY is managed by our international team, comprising experts for water sports like Surfing and SUP, professional instructors, passionate surfers, nature lovers and tourism experts as guides and competent service staff.

We attach great importance to the holiday of our guests and participants while making their stay as perfect as possible. Whether in the surf course, on our tours  or in the surf lodge –  we bring commitment, passion and expertise to our work to assure an unforgettable surf AND vacation experience. We take pleasure in what we do and we are proud of what we jointly achieved.

Besides passion and commitment, quality and safety is extremely important for us.  All our coaches, instructors  and guides are trained and licensed to international standards and very familiar with the local conditions. Specially  trained to ensure your safety in the water, you don´t have to worry about anything but to concentrate on surfing. Our friendly lodge crew will make you feel like home anytime, bring you closer to Portuguese culture and local life.

ACCOMMODATION AND CATERING

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ACCOMMODATION TYPES

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 Our surf camp is located in the middle of green pine trees within a stone's throw of the natural beach, just only 400 meters to the sea, you can reach our "home beach" in a few minutes foot walk.

Our surf spot in Praia da Azurara is one of the best surf spots in North Portugal, equally popular with surfers especially known for its consistent conditions for surfing.

Porto Beach Lodge is made by a main house, with two dorms (mixed and female), two double or single room and one suite for 4 persons, and the adjoining houses, with one suite for 4 persons, two double or single rooms and one triple room.

Except for the dorms, all rooms and suites have a private bathroom and smart TV, a web-enabled TV that offers a variety of multimedia applications, as well as USB ports and wireless charging stations for smartphones.

Bed linen and towels are provided and changed every 4 days, free of charge, if you want to change them first there is a cost of 1€ per towel and per set of bed linen, but it will always have to be requested before the cleaning of the room.

All facilities are non-smoking, only outdoor smoking is allowed.

The common areas are the large living room in the main house that offering a cozy sitting area, a fireplace and TV as well as a spacious dining room and a sun terrace, a fully equipped, shared kitchen.

We have a reception service available 24h in case you need anything, or in case of late or earlier check in.

The houses are framed by a beautiful Mediterranean natural garden with large green areas inviting for walks and rest in the shades of the trees. The attendant sports field, a bike rental and a yoga-deck invite for active sports as well as for more relaxed Yoga sessions.

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CATERING

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 The Breakfast is included, various types of bread, cakes, butter/cream cheese, sausage, cheese and jam as well as muesli in various variations, yogurt, fruit salad and eggs, are examples of what is served.

If you have any food allergies or are vegetarian, you should notify us in advance by email or at reception.

We serve hot beverages like coffee and tea, as well as cold ones like water, milk and fresh orange juice.

Free coffee, tea, water, and fruits are available all day long.

For additional meals and self-catering a fully equipped, shared kitchen is available any time, nearby you can find grocery stores (800m from the lodge).
Five days a week you can join a communal dinner or BBQ for 12-15 EUR per meal (incl. drink).

Some typical Portuguese cafés and restaurants can be found in the immediate vicinity and many more options are waiting for you in the nearby village of Vila do Conde. If you spend the evening in Porto, the culinary variety and the offer of restaurants are even larger, of course.

 

SURF COURSE AND ACTIVITIES

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SURF COURSE DETAILS

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 For all levels and ages

Our surf courses for all levels and ages are offered 5 days a week. Under the instructions of experienced and licensed surf instructors of the PORTO SURF SCHOOL, you will learn how to catch your first waves or improve the skills you already have.

Depending on the given wave conditions and tides there are either two surf sessions of 1.5 hours or one long session of approx. 3 hours per day. Regarding the tides and conditions, we start every morning between 9.30 and 10.30 am. At best, the courses takes place directly at our home beach – Praia da Árvore. If the waves next door do not meet our requirements, we will take you to other surf spots where beginners as well as intermediates and advanced surfers will get the best conditions the area offers. The lessons are given in English.

The Surf Class include:

Beach transfer; 3 hours lesson per day; All levels and all ages; Surfboard and wetsuit; Certified surf instructors; Insurance

 In addition to our normal surf courses we also offer private lessons on request. With a maximum of 2 persons you will be individually trained according to your surf level. With our intensive private classes you can achieve even more effective learning goals and faster results. 3 hours of private surf lessons (1-2 persons) 180,- EUR.

No accommodation is required at Porto Beach Lodge, to enjoy the surf courses we offer.

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SURF MATERIALS

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 Always the best material to learn

To ensure your well-being and safety in the water, we particularly focus on quality. Therefore, we only provide high quality material in all our surf courses.

We offer soft boards in sizes 7'0 to 9'0 feet for absolute beginners and hard boards between 6'4 and 7'6 feet for surfers with previous experience. Even if the Atlantic Ocean is famous for its chilly temperatures, you are not going to freeze since every participant will get his own thick 4/3mm wetsuit.

Surfboards and wetsuits are available for you to practice independently even outside the course hours.

Rental Prices:

 Surfboard and wetsuit Rental €25.00 per day

Surfboard Rental €20.00 per day

Wetsuit Rental €7.50 per day

 

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OTHER ACTIVITIES

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 Douro SUP-Tour

Our SUP van will take you to a picturesque village where a tributary of the Douro joins the main river with vineyard terraces reaching down to the river bank. The SUP tour has not even started yet and you are already enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Porto. As soon as we have left the city a charming hinterland opens up: Hilly landscapes with sleepy village, Mediterranean gardens and green vineyards all the way along the river side. After approx. one hour´s drive we have reached our destination. The paddle boards will be let to the water at a quiet spot of the river. Here we have calm flow conditions which are ideal to get used to the boards and practice the first paddle steps. Our experienced guide will explain you the basic technique and help you finding your balance on the board.

As soon as you are feeling comfortable we will start paddling down the river towards a smaller  tributary, that will lead us through a scenery of green rich nature and rock formations. Smaller bays and secluded coves with waterfalls as well as diverting currents will give you the opportunity to both relax and enjoy the nature and have fun and spend some joyful moments while jumping into the water or paddling through stronger streams – whatever you like, there is something for everyone on this tour. The SUP tour ends on the Ilha dos Amores –  the island of lovers –  a small river island where we will rest, have a small lunch and enjoy the unforgettable view of the Douro before heading back to Porto.

The SUP TOUR includes:

All levels and all ages; Transfer to the location; Tour guide; Introduction; Board, Paddle & Wetsuit.

The price for 5 hour tour (price per person) is 60 EUR.

MORE INFO, HOW TO GET THERE & FAQ

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 SURF CONDITIONS

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Breaks directly at the main spot and at nearby spots

With a distance of only 400 meters to the sea, you can reach our "home beach" in a few minutes foot walk. The beach side is one of the most beautiful the region offers and is equally popular with surfers and beach lovers due to its fine white sand and wave quality.

Seasonal conditions

Due to its long Atlantic coast, Porto provides a maritime climate with mild winters (13° C/ 55° F) and warm summers (28° C/ 82° F). The water temperatures vary between 14° C (57° F) in winter and 19° C (66° F) during the summer months. The biggest swells arrive between the months of November and April and create the highest waves at the North coast of Portugal. In the summer months, however, the waves are smaller and therefore ideal for learning and catching the first small green walls.

Crowd factor and local people

At the northern end of the beach, at the mouth of the river Aves, lies Praia da Azurara, one of the best surf spots in North Portugal, especially known for its consistent conditions as well as for its relaxed atmosphere.

Our experienced surf coaches will always find the surf spot with the best conditions for your level and line ups where you hardly have to share the waves with other surfers –  even in high season

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 SURROUNDINGS / REGION

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Characterization of surroundings/region

During the summer months you can take a boat from here steering to the other side of the river where the small historic seaport, Vila do Conde, attracts you with its Mediterranean flair – the original Portuguese ambiance of the old town is best enjoyed in one of its many traditional cafés and restaurants situated right at the sea side or hidden in its narrow alleys.

Activities and facilities

If you like sports, the Beach Lodge, the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean, the river landscape of the Douro and the mountainous hinterland with its forests and parks give you countless opportunities to practice your favorite sport in the great outdoors.

Activities:

Guided Porto Tours - Full day or half-day tours –  the north of Portugal offers a wide range of historical, cultural and very special scenic highlights.

Douro Valley and Port Wine Tasting - Enjoy a wine tasting in the vineyard-lined hills of the Douro Valley, a World Heritage listed region famous for its port wine production.

Yoga - Yoga has many positive effects: It strengthens and stretches the muscles, mobilizes the spine and harmonizes body, mind and soul. Thus stress is reduced and the energy of the body is brought to flow. Our Yoga Deck is situated in a quiet forestal area. During the main and middle season, the yoga classes take place from Monday to Friday in a well spoken English and can be booked on site. Whether you are an advanced yoga student or have never done it before, the classes are adapted to each level. If you want to do yoga on your own, you can use the yoga deck any time as well.

Biking; Running; Bird Watching; Golf; Diving; Horseback riding; Wind- and Kitesurfing; Hiking, Trekking, Pilgrimage; Trail Running (Distance: 100 km/ 1 hour by car); Climbing and Bouldering (Distance: 40 km - 100 km / 30 min -1 hour drive by car).

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 JOURNEY

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Ways to get to the camp

By Táxi or car:

18 min (18.4 km)

- Get on A41 in Santa Cruz do Bispo
2 min (1.7 km)

- Head south
140 m

- Turn right onto the ramp to Porto/Matosinhos/Maia
1.2 km

-Keep right at the fork to continue on Exit 1, follow signs for A41/Perafita/Viana C.lo/V. Conde/A28 and merge onto A41
350 m

- Take A28 to R. da Aldeia Nova/N13 in Modivas. Take exit 13 from A28
7 min (10.6 km)

- Merge onto A41
1.9 km

- Take the exit onto A28 toward Viana C.lo/V. Conde
8.3 km

- Take exit 13 to merge onto R. da Aldeia Nova/N13 toward Mindelo
300 m

- Follow N13 and R. da Estrada Velha to R. Eng. Mário Almeida in Árvore
9 min (6.1 km)

- Merge onto R. da Aldeia Nova/N13
450 m

- At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto N13
1.8 km

- At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Av. Primeiro de Maio/N13
550 m

- Turn left onto R. da Estrada Velha
350 m

- Turn left to stay on R. da Estrada Velha
700 m

- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit and stay on R. da Estrada Velha
1.8 km

- Turn left onto Av. Cel. Aires Martins
270 m

-Turn left onto R. Eng. Mário Almeida
Destination will be on the left
240 m

By Metro:

Take the metro at the Aeroport

- Metro towards Trindade (3 minutes, 2 stops)

- Change line to Verdes

- In Verdes, metro towards Póvoa de Varzim, exit to Varziela Station (17minutes, 9 stops).

Take the metro at the train station Campanhã

- Metro towards Póvoa de Varzim, exit to Varziela Station (42 minutes, 16 minutes)

- Buy the ticket to zone 5 (Z5)  2.40€

Important details

 We provide transport to the airport, the price for one way (including 1-4 persons) is 30€.

PACKAGES & PRICES

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Beach Lodge Package   - from 455€ per Week / Person

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This package includes:

-        Accommodation 400m from the next surf spot
-        Private bathroom and TV (except dorms)
-        Daily room cleaning
-        WiFi, USB ports, wireless charger
-        Lounge with books, TV and panorama window
-        Breakfast buffet
-        Lunch box (days of surf lesson)
-        Shared kitchen and dining area
-        Full day tea, coffee, water and fruits
-         Dinner or BBQ (optional)
-        Garden, sports ground and Yoga deck
-        3h surf lesson a day, 5 times a week
-        Surfboard, wetsuit and bikes 24/7 free usage
-        5 Yoga session per week (just from May till October)
-        Free guided Porto city tour
-        Free shuttle to the metro
-        Airport transfer (optional)

PRICES PER PERSON/WEEK

The duration of the stay can be arranged freely, but a minimum of 5 nights is required. We are happy to create an individual offer for you.

	low season	mid-season	high season
single room	655 EUR	705 EUR	740 EUR
double room	495 EUR	545 EUR	580 EUR
double superior	505 EUR	555 EUR	590 EUR
3 bedroom	475 EUR	525 EUR	560 EUR
3 bed suite	495 EUR	545 EUR	580 EUR
4 bed suite	455 EUR	505 EUR	545 EUR
dorm (price p.p.)	480 EUR	535 EUR	570 EUR

Low season (Nov. - Mar.), mid-season (Apr. - Jun. & Sep. - Oct.), high season (Jul. & Aug.)