Areias do Mar

Areias do Mar is a small, owner-run outfitter based on Praia da Franquia, the river beach of Vila Nova de Milfontes in the municipality of Odemira. Since the summer of 2010 it has offered kayak tours and rentals on the River Mira and at the beaches around its mouth, on a stretch of the Alentejo coast that lies inside the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park.

Paddling is the whole idea: quiet, human-powered boats that let visitors watch the birds of the estuary from water level, with departures timed to the tide so that the current does part of the work. The company is registered with the national tourism authority and is a recognised partner of the Portuguese network of nautical stations. Life jackets are compulsory and insurance is included.

There are three guided routes. The shortest is a five-kilometre loop of about two and a half hours that needs no transport; the second runs thirteen kilometres upriver to Cais da Casa Branca in about four hours; the longest follows the Mira for thirty-one kilometres to Odemira and fills a whole day. Return transport is included on the two longer routes. Kayaks can also be rented, and stand-up paddle is available, for exploring the river independently.

Praia da Franquia is a short walk from the centre of Vila Nova de Milfontes, so no car is needed by those staying in the village. The tours suit beginners as well as experienced paddlers, and booking ahead is advisable in high season.