29/05/2026
Algarve beach awarded Europe's best beach 2026
Praia de Monte Clérigo named the best beach in Europe for 2026.
The stunning stretch of sand in Aljezur, far from the usual tourist hotspots of the Algarve, has topped the latest ranking by European Best Destinations, taking the number one spot.
Praia de Monte Clérigo, 59 km from our house, has quietly become one of Europe’s most desirable Atlantic escapes. Ranked among the Best Beaches in Europe and celebrated by European Best Destinations as the Most Beautiful Beach in Europe, this spectacular beach on the Costa Vicentina is increasingly attracting travellers searching for authenticity, nature and understated luxury far from overcrowded resorts,” the authors of the list write.
“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.
Many famous names have been linked to the beach, including foreign royalty.
“This springtime, Alexandre Grimaldi, son of Prince Albert II of Monaco, was spotted enjoying the atmosphere of Monte Clérigo, while fashion designer Christian Louboutin is known to visit the region as a discreet neighbour – further proof that Costa Vicentina is becoming one of Europe’s emerging chic coastal hideaways,” they add.
The authors go on to say Monte Clérigo offers the “chic spirit of Comporta with the sunshine of the Algarve”, while remaining “significantly more accessible, with luxury private accommodation prices often up to three times lower than in Portugal’s famous celebrity retreats”.
For the European Best Beaches 2026 selection, the editorial team of European Best Destinations reviewed hundreds of beaches across Europe and pre-selected around 10 remarkable beaches 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 30 highest-rated beaches were then submitted to an international panel of travellers and tourism enthusiasts who voted to determine the Best Beaches in Europe 2026.
