If you’re a British surfer then the idea of heading to sunnier climes and catching some waves without a full winter kit is an appealing thought. Check out our top five European surf destinations to get some inspiration.
Morocco
A long-time popular surf destination known for big waves and plenty of sunshine, Morocco is a great choice for chilled out surfers.
If you’re looking for a winter break then head for the Taghazout or Agadir between December and March. If it’s a summer break you’re after, Oualidia and Rabat are the best bet for perfect surf conditions. Between September and October you can hit up any beach along the coast and find big swells and very little wind. Give this destination a miss in November and April due to the rainy season.
If you’ve been to Morocco before and are looking for a new challenge then why not head down south on a surf tour of the more remote and quiet surf spots?
Portugal
A surf trip to southern Portugal is a great choice for a sunny break on a board and there are plenty of cheap flights from Britain to get you there without breaking the bank.
Fly into Faro then head for Sagres where there are plenty of great beaches with surf schools and equipment hire shacks dotted around. The weather is great and a post-surf lunch or dinner will please even the most picky eater.
If you’re looking for a quiet spot where you might catch the waves undisturbed then head north to the Cortega region – get there by Flying into Porto.
Spain
Spain is a great holiday destination for surfers of all levels. Start in one of the most popular surf towns, Zarautz where you’ll find 3km of beach lined promenade. There are loads of great restaurants, bars and places to relax.
If you want something a bit more cultural head to San Sebastian: the Gastro capital of Spain. There are two stunning beaches there with La Zurriola throwing up consistently great waves.
Madeira
A fairly new surf destination, Madeira has just started to get popular with people looking for a less well-worn destination. Better suited for experienced surfers, Madeira has great waves but also rocks which have to be navigated. But if you know what you’re doing, the risks are well worth it with everything from point breaks to reef breaks up for grabs.
The good news is that the surf here hits its peak in the off-season so you’ll get better rates on your hotel and rental car. Madeira is well-known as a honeymoon destination and is popular with older holiday makers, but if you like a chilled out atmosphere and waves that don’t have waiting lines then why not try Madeira before the secret gets out?
France
France is best from March to November and with some of the world’s best beach breaks to choose from. You can take your pick of beaches down the west coast. In fact, keep heading south and you’ll find the waves just get better and better. Try Barriatz, Hossegor and Seignosse Le Penon for starters.
Most airlines like Aer Lingus will carry Surf Boards as checked baggage and a small fee may apply.
Where do you fly for a great surf holiday?
Featured images:
- License: Creative Commons image source
- License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
Nick Gibson is a travel writer working for a publishing house based in London. He loves surfing and spends his weekends surfing in Scotland or Cornwall.
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About Douglas Smythe
