Sailing hotspot, Matosinhos and Porto, Portugal, capitalize on giant maritime games
The North of Portugal is making waves in the world of nautical tourism, thanks to a partnership between Turismo do Porto e Norte de Portugal and The Ocean Race. This collaboration aims to promote the region's nautical activities while fostering environmental conservation values among future generations.
Matosinhos, a port town and fishing center, is at the forefront of this exciting development. With an award-winning terminal at Leixões and a coastline stretching over 15 km, Matosinhos is more than just a cruise destination. It is a hub for water sports such as kite-surfing, windsurfing, and surfing, and Fernando Adrià, the Spanish star chef, has even declared the fish here as "the best in the world".
The municipality of Matosinhos is capitalising on this reputation, launching the brand "Matosinhos World's Best Fish". The FeelViana Sport Hotel in Viana do Castelo, located about 80 km north of Porto, offers services for various water sports and bicycle tours, making it an ideal base for adventure seekers.
Viana do Castelo itself is a hotspot for nautical activities. Its proximity to Ponte de Lima, the oldest Portuguese village and a reference for Vinho Verde production, adds a touch of culture and history to the mix.
Aphros Wine, a farm-winery in Ponte de Lima, is a pioneer in the Portuguese biodynamic wine movement. Recognized by the New York Times, Aphros Wine is considering opening a small restaurant on their farm for a more engaging tasting experience.
The international appeal of sailing is highlighted through a stop in Matosinhos during The Ocean Race Europe. Portugal's headquarters for The Ocean Race may move from Alicante to Porto, with discussions centering around the strong commitment of local authorities, efficient organisation during the 2025 stopover in Matosinhos-Porto, and the region's ambitions to establish itself as a nautical sports destination focused on sustainability.
The Ocean Race attracts international nautical and sailing tourism, particularly from Spain, France, Germany, and Italy. The Ocean Race 2029 is planned to stop in Porto, further boosting the region's profile. The Norte region of Portugal, with its 140 km of coastline and numerous marinas, is poised to become a significant player in the world of nautical tourism.
Moreover, the promotional strategy for the North region focuses on both global and European levels, with a more targeted offer beyond Porto. The region's commitment to sustainability, ocean protection, and nautical tourism development is evident in its plans to host the Ocean Summit and become an official stage of the global Ocean Race in the future. Matosinhos could even become the permanent race headquarters after the contract with Alicante expires.
The North of Portugal offers more than just nautical tourism. It is a gateway to viticulture, gastronomy, sports, nature, culture, history, and iconic symbols like the "shell" of the Camino de Santiago. Whether you're a sailing enthusiast, a food lover, or an adventure seeker, the North of Portugal has something for everyone.
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