My Aljezur

Stephanie Huchet is a part consultant, part artist, part entrepreneur based in Western Algarve. @surfshanti_

Akeen surfer and sailor, I live in Aljezur with my Australian partner. I travelled extensively to explore remote areas of SE Asia, Indonesia, Australia, France and beyond. This curiosity has taken me on a journey of reaching many different paths over the years. Today, I work in luxury hospitality management and more recently as an interior designer. I’m passionate about the Ocean and anything that is chic, sophisticated and vintage.

Surf

My favourite beach to surf is Amoreira beach on the Costa Vicentina. There is nothing like an early morning surf to start the day and feel blown away by the beauty of the Ocean and rugged coastline. This area is known as “the little California of Europe”. Amoreira beach also offers a beautiful river where I love to swim all year round. Spotting dolphins while surfing is the most amazing experience...

Hikes

The Costa Vicentina is blessed with amazing hiking trails alongside majestic cliffs and pristine beaches. I have a few secret spots where I like to go to be alone in nature. The hike between the beach of Carrapateira and Arrifana beach is a spectacular one. All year round, hikers from all over come here to enjoy the trail. Best avoid the summer months though, because of the heat.

Eat

I love Portuguese food, especially fish and to eat at the local restaurants at Monte Clerigo beach. O Sargo is a favourite one and so is Zé. For breakfast, A Rede is a good option. The West Algarve is famous for the seafood and especially the “percebes”. A great option for seafood lovers is O Paolo at Arrifana beach.

Beaches

We are blessed with many gorgeous beaches around here. Odeceixe, Amoreira, Monte Clerigo and Arrifana are all stunning and make good surf beaches. If you explore further, there are also many more beaches North and South of Aljezur.

Stay

My partner and I have created two bespoke accommodations in the area. Surf Shanti bespoke lodgings, inspired by quintessential coastal style. A luxury contemporary villa with Ocean views at Monte Clerigo beach and a beautiful cottage in the historical town of Aljezur. All year round, we welcome discerning guests from all over the world. We are also open to home swaps in surfing locations. The West Coast Algarve is now popular with North Americans with new direct flights from New York and Toronto to Faro!