Western Algarve beach leads latest European list
Praia de Monte Clérigo in Aljezur has been ranked number one in the latest European Best Beaches 2026 list by the European Best Destinations, placing it ahead of several Greek beaches that often dominate the ranking.
Far from the usual tourist hotspots of the Algarve, Monte Clérigo has quietly become “one of Europe’s most desirable Atlantic escapes”, according to the list’s authors.
“This spectacular beach on the Costa Vicentina is increasingly attracting travellers searching for authenticity, nature and understated luxury far from overcrowded resorts.”
“Known for its golden cliffs, wild Atlantic landscapes and unforgettable sunsets, Monte Clérigo is rapidly earning a reputation as one of Portugal’s leading ‘Sunset Beaches’,” they add, with many famous names linked to the beach, including foreign royalty.
For the 2026 selection, the editorial team reviewed hundreds of beaches across Europe, pre-selecting around 10 per country. Each destination was evaluated according to a combination of editorial, environmental and traveller-experience criteria, including natural beauty, water quality, accessibility, family-friendliness, authenticity, available activities, preservation of the environment, beach services, nearby accommodation quality and overall atmosphere.
The top 30 were then submitted to an international panel of travellers and tourism enthusiasts who voted to determine the Best Beaches in Europe 2026.
The top 10 includes Greece’s Voutoumi and Fteri beaches (2nd and 3rd), Elafonsi Beach in Crete (4th), Bogliasco Beach in Italy (5th), Cala Mesquida in Spain (6th), Norway’s Kvalvika Beach (7th), Rovinia Beach in Greece (8th), Kaputas Beach in Turkey (9th) and Paleokastritsa Beach (10th), yet again in Greece.
Article originally published by Michael Bruxo on The Resident.
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