Sagres and Lisbon, the Algarve, Portugal
Arguably Europe's premier surfing capital, the southwestern coast of the Algarve sports long Atlantic rollers that sweep onto its shores. The party city of Lagos and the chilled-out haze that is Sagres are the hubs of the surf scene within the area. The winter is the season to find the ideal swells within the region as high winds in the summer make the time more suited to wind surfing although anytime of the year is still a good bet for a great surfing trip, the 150 km of coastline will guarantee that. Bundoran, Ireland
Playing host to some of the most renowned international tournaments this location in Northwest Ireland has beautiful jade waves that crash down on the headlands and flat rock reefs of the Emerald Isle. The Tullan Strand sends out fast hollow barrels and more mellow peaks. The consistency and quality of these breaks are better than anywhere else in Ireland and are for experienced riders only. Jaeran, Norway
Although not often thought of as a surfing haven, Norway is truly a rare surfing frontier and is obviously only for the bravest and most experienced. The intensity of the cold Arctic sells can be over the top unless you consider yourself a real surfer. Jaeren is known by most as the best spot in Norway to get a ride in on the granite and boulder reefs. Although the best time to surf up is in the winter when it is dark 24/7, it is all made up for in the summer when surfing action goes as the sun goes (also 24/7!). |
Mundaka, Spain
The spot once used as a site for the World Championship Tour of Surfing on the Bay of Biscay has played host to the elite of the surfing world. Dangerous conditions can lay host here when the crowds and winds are out in full force. With San Sebastian and Bilbao each within an hour and a half away those looking for the tourist surfing combo are sure to be pleased Biarritz, France
The surf at the Southern tip of France is ideal for both the newest riders, and the seasoned veteran. Cote de Basque sports all the foamie board riders, whereas around the corner at the Grand Plage those looking for a more challenging wave can find a temperamental break that may be inconsistent, but on a good day it can be as good as any break in Europe. The thing you have to be most careful about is your budget when in these seaside towns as the luxurious lifestyle isn’t compatible to a shoestring budget |