Neu Destinations: Caldas da Rainha

After showing us the magical island of Madeira, our journey with the talented couple of @allaboutwanderlust continues for our 3rd NEU DESTINATION: Caldas da Rainha, one of the most beautiful yet lesser known cities of Portugal.

Located one hour north of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, Caldas as it is commonly called lies on the beautiful Silver Coast, but it’s known for its famous thermal baths. Story says that back in 1484 the Queen Leonor was passing through the area and spotted peasants bathing in peculiar, smelling water near the roadside. She questioned them about their strange pastime, and they boasted of the waters healing powers. Her curiosity took over and she had to try out the thermal water for herself. She was so impressed that she ordered a hospital to be built around the spring and the city of Caldas da Rainha was born. That hospital is the oldest purpose-built institution in the world and is still in operation today. Caldas da Rainha literally translates to, “Baths of the Queen,” in Portuguese.

Now, let's take a trip around our favorite corners of the city while discovering our best-seller styles from our summer collection.

 1st stop: the streets of Óbidos Medieval town in the perfect neutral look for all ages and occasions, the Kerala blouse and the Angela Parka paired up with our Cara Palazzo Pants in white. Chic with any of our sustainable ladies’ bottoms, the casual Kerala is a versatile vacation staple.

Filled with cobblestone streets and picturesque houses, Óbidos is the ideal place to get lost in magical alleys filled with traditional ‘azulejos' tiles, small gardens and breathtaking views. Also, during July Óbidos castle hosts a traditional 'Medieval Market' that brings visitors from all around the world. For two weeks the castle and the surrounding town recreate the spirit of medieval Europe. Within the town, you will find makeshift restaurants and shops, theater performances and more.

2nd stop: a sunny day at the Foz de Arelho beach wearing our warm weather staple, the Formentera Kaftan. Although a kaftan is a dream cover-up on the beach, shielding your skin from the sun and keeping you cool in the heat, it also looks great for a summer night on the tiles. Grab your tote bag – discover our accessories for women here – and go!

Foz do Arelho beach is a very unique place since its ocean feeds into the Óbidos Lagoon, the largest saltwater lagoon in Portugal, creating two distinct beaches. The serene lagoon is the perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying nature. Over at the main beach, one can surf in the waves or take a swim to later on ease up on the long stretches of white sand.

3rd stop: the unmissable coastal walk of Foz do Arelho in our forever favorite Linen Boyfriend Shirt in Olive Night during and our effortless matching set, the Eileen Shirt and the Riga Shorts.

In its almost 800m length you will contemplate how the forest rolls down to the water’s edge and the Atlantic pounds on beaches at the entrance to the lagoon. For those who are expert and daring enough to venture out into the waves, the lagoon offers an ideal launching place and a safe harbour to return to. And don’t forget to stay for an incredible sunset session!

 

SUMMER BEST-SELLER ESSENTIALS