KITESURFING AT MOLEDO BEACH

 Kitesurf in moledo, North Portugal, perfect playground for all levels

Moledo Beach, or Praia de Moledo, is neighbour to the already popular kite spot Viana do Castelo. Except it’s way less crowded, with plenty more room for kitesurfers of all levels to share the fun. Boasting its long, sandy area, it is one of the largest beaches in North Portugal. If you’re looking for somewhere with as good kitesurfing conditions as Viana do Castelo, but more wild, rugged, quaint, and spacious, then look no further than Moledo.

What makes this the ideal spot to learn kitesurfing? Firstly, the average wind speed is 20 - 25knts. This means the wind can be slightly lighter than in Viana do Castelo, which makes it easier for learning, however still almost as consistent. Secondly, we are fortunate to be on the West coast of Portugal, where the North wind (Nortada) works with strong thermal wind giving us this perfect average wind speed. The main kitesurfing season is from May to October. There are certain peaks and sandbanks at Moledo beach which provide waves almost all year round. Depending on what kind of lesson you are looking for, there are areas of the beach to suit all abilities and style. We offer anything from a beginner’s first lesson to strapless surfboard wave riding lessons, and even advanced coaching for some new tricks to add to your arsenal. As a complete beginner, you will have your very first lesson on the wide sandy beach, learning all the basics of piloting a kite from the comfort of dry land before moving into deeper waters. Don’t be intimidated by the description of the waves. As well as the peaks that provide the wave rider’s playground, there are areas of the beach which are protected and therefore have flat water to practice taking your first rides.

As far as locations in Portugal go for having conditions suited to any style and ability of kitesurfing, this really is one of the best, underrated spots Portugal has to offer. Not to mention the stunning vista with the Insua Fortress as your kitesurfing backdrop. The fortress is a centuries-old unusual star-shaped structure that was built on a little islet, which you can visit by boat from Caminha, or even ride the short distance from Moledo beach, land your kite and get a closer look.

Compared to the bustling town of Viana do Castelo, Moledo is a charming village which still has all the necessary amenities, and more. The beach has facilities such as parking, toilets, bars and restaurants - the perfect setting to soak up the sunset after an epic day of kitesurfing! Looking for more things to do? Here with your family who aren’t so much into kitesurfing? Well if you haven’t already convinced them to give that a go, there are plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. The waves attract both surfers and kite surfers alike, so why not hire a surfboard or even take a lesson with the local surf schools there at the beach. For hikers and bikers, the various scenic nature trails in the area provide for some serious adventure. Take your pick from the renowned Ecovia coastal bike trail, to the Serra D’arga and surrounding nature trails. If this isn’t enough, there is yet birdwatching, canyoning, and paragliding.

We are truly blessed to be based in such a part of the country that offers so many opportunities to discover new adventures. The advantage of choosing a kitesurf holiday in Moledo is being within short driving distances from wildly varying landscapes and points of interest. Situated close to the River Minho which sits on the border between Spain and Portugal, it’s a short boat hop across the river from Caminha to Spain if you want to really make the most of a cultural experience. Caminha itself, conveniently close to Moledo, is a great place to spend a relaxed afternoon; sitting in the town square for a coffee and a spot of people-watching, and admiring the medieval clock tower. If you want to delve deeper into the region’s culture, and combine this with adventure, then a trip to Ponte de Lima simply must have a place on your itinerary. It’s one of the oldest villages in Portugal, and is easily accessible from the Ecovia cycling route and Serra D’arga nature trails. Kayaking on the river Lima is also a highlight, while appreciating the splendid Roman bridge from the water. And for the cherry on the top, Ponte de Lima is home to the world-famous Vinho Verde so if you’re a fan, book yourself in for a wine tasting tour in the very home of this quintessentially Portugese delight.

Being only an hour’s drive from Porto, short drives from Viana do Castelo and many more fun places, it would be folly not to give us a visit. Whatever your kitesurfing needs; whether you want to simply improve your skills or dive straight in from the beginning, we’ve got you covered. We are more than ready to welcome you to our new kitesurf school in Moledo; in an exciting region with countless reasons to make your kitesurf holiday in North Portugal one that you won’t forget in a hurry. See you soon!