São Martinho do Porto is one of the real gems of the Silver Coast. It’s small – the population is less than 3,000 – but very beautiful. It is built around a magnificent shell-shaped bay that keeps it sheltered from the wind and ensures that the water is calm and warm, making it ideal for families with small children.

This used to be the favourite holiday destination of the Portuguese royal family and it’s easy to see why. The charming promenade is lined with quaint shops, bars and seafood restaurants, while cobbled streets and a lift take you up to a stunning church and the local farmers’ market which offers wonderfully fresh produce seven-days-a-week.

One of the great advantages of its small size is that parents can browse the shops, or enjoy a drink, and never be too far away from their children playing safely on the beach, having fun in the children’s play area, or cycling around the bay.

It is an exclusive and beautifully maintained village where nothing is more than a 15 minute walk away. Probably the only time you will need to use a car is if you want to play a round at one of the nearby golf courses, or visit one of the many historic churches, monasteries and castles in the area.

While it is small and peaceful it still buzzes with life all year round. You only have to be there at New Year or attend one of the Sardine Festivals to see that these people know how to enjoy life.

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