VISAS: Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, and for most travellers, visas are not generally required for stays up to 90 days within 180 days. However, visa requirements can vary depending on your nationality, so it's advisable to check the specific requirements for your country before travelling. More information can be found here. CURRENCY: EUR PRICES: Beer: €1-2; Food: Lunch €7-15; Accommodation: €45-100 pp; Kite Lessons: 6H €200; Kite Gear rental: €15 per hour. LANGUAGE: Portuguese INTERNET: Wifi is readily available, but for a more reliable connection, consider getting a local SIM card. TRAVEL ADVICE: Even during the summer, bring some warmer clothes for the evenings. Local dining habits involve later dinners, starting around 9 pm. Renting a car is advisable for exploring the region. TEMPERATURE: Water temperatures range from 14 – 20°C / 57 - 68°F, requiring a 3/4mm wetsuit most of the year. A windbreaker jacket is recommended for windy days.

NEAREST TOWN: Viana do Castelo NEAREST CITY: Porto NEAREST AIRPORT: Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport [OPO] 76 Km, Vigo Airport [VGO] 99 Km. Accessing Viana do Castelo is easy through two nearby airports: Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto and Vigo Airport in Spain. You can use public transportation or rent a car to visit the coastal kite spots. Renting a car for more flexibility is recommended, but public buses are also available during peak season. The cost of public transportation is approximately 8€ for a train ride (1 hour) or 5€ for a bus ride (1.5 hours) plus an additional 3€ for a train ride (30 minutes). GETTING AROUND Many kiteboarders prefer to rent a car due to the low rental prices in the region. You can easily get a comfortable all-rounder for less than €100 per week. If renting a car is not feasible, you can stay at accommodations closer to kite spots or use public buses. Some kite schools may offer transportation services, particularly if you are renting equipment or taking lessons. Most people in Viana use cars, bikes, boat taxis, or public buses to get around, with a taxi from the old town to the beach costing 6€, a boat taxi costing 1.50€, and bike rentals ranging from 20-60€ per day.

Viana do Castelo, particularly Praia do Cabedelo, boasts a year-round wind playground. However, the most wind-reliable period spans from early April to late October, when daily forecasted winds receive consistent boosts from local thermals. During summer afternoons, a prevailing northerly wind known as "Nortada" dominates in Viana. It is a trade wind whose strength is increased due to thermic and bay wind effects. Average wind speeds range from 15 to 25 knots, with the thermal wind occasionally elevating forecasts by 50%, reaching its peak intensity around 4 pm. This dynamic wind pattern necessitates larger kites in the morning, transitioning to smaller sizes as the afternoon progresses. The most frequently used kites fall within the 7m to 10m with the more giant or foil kites needed for morning sessions. Summer temperatures soar to 30°C / 86°F, while early-season conditions bring temperatures down to 11-20°C / 51-67°F. Abundant sunshine graces the region year-round, making it a warm haven for kiteboarders. As the day transitions to evening, a sweater and a pair of jeans become comforting companions. Two prevailing wind directions grace Viana do Castelo: Nortada: Blowing from the NW-N, Nortada winds provide onshore/cross-onshore conditions. Averaging 15-25 knots, they are most common during the peak season from May to September. Suestada: From the SW, Suestada winds offer cross-shore conditions. They occur more frequently in the off-season months and provide an excellent alternative win direction for kiteboarders. WIND DIRECTIONS: NW-N, SW WINDIEST MONTHS: High Season - May, June, July, August, September. Mid Season - April, October. Low Season - November - February.

Viana do Castelo's beaches, with their expansive sandy shores, still demand standard precautions during launching and landing, especially in the High season (June to August) due to crowded beaches. Also, tidal conditions influence water depth, particularly during high tide. Beginners should exercise caution during intense currents and chop. For off-shore wind days, consider the safety/transfer boat service from local schools to ensure a secure kitesurfing experience. *For kite-related services, contact local kite centres or camps. Seek advice from qualified instructors.