Costa Vicentina between Sines and Sagres is one Portugal's wildest and most rugged coasts. The beautiful, steep cliffs, peppered with sandy beaches, are traditionally an area for surfing expeditions – kites and windsurfing kit are rarely seen. But with a bit of luck you can score good days here: like when north-westerly wind and swell coincide in winter. Ironically the thermal Nortada rarely blows strong enough in summertime, so the best chances come on clear, chilly winter days. Sheltered by capes, northerly blows pretty gusty in 'Vila Nova' and 'Odeceixe'. Cross-on low-pressure south-westerlies are also good, but only on the first day as swell and currents soon turn gnarly.