Surfing

Algarve (Portugal)

In August 2012, I left for Faro. Not for a beach- or cultural vacation, but to learn how to ride the waves! Trough Atlantic Riders, I got a whole week of surfing lessons and I've stayed in a surfing camp. The surfing took place on Arrifana Beach & Vale Figueires.

The learning curve was not so hard than I'd expected it to be. After the second day, I could already stand on my board. At the end of the week, I mastered some simple tricks. My teachers Tom, Jack & Josh were Australian surfers whose good explanation and guidance resulted in my rapid progress.

After this awesome week I got a good look on this board sport and I'm planning to do some more surfing in the future.

 

Mimizan (France)

 

My second surfing trip wasn't as good as I expected it to be. I had a fun week, but didn't get any better in surfing. I stayed at Pura Vida Lodge. It's a very nice place to stay if you're searching for something else than a surf camp. The main surfing beach is a 10 min bike ride away from the lodge.
Mimizan itself is an enjoyable town in southern France with lot's of restaurants, shops and a couple of bars.

Unfortunately, in my week, the surfing conditions weren't good at all. There was this strong current and the waves were really small (if there were any). On better days, I could practice on the white waves what I've learned in Portugal, but didn't really get a shot at green waves. Not what I've expected of one of the most popular surf spots in Europe.

Eventually Mimizan is a nice place to stay for surfers, but you need a little bit of luck with the waves...