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This coastal region has a succession of long sandy beaches, all with the green of the maritime pines as their backdrop, contrasting with the blue of the sky and the golden tones of the sand.

After visiting Marinha Grande, make sure to pass through the ancient forest of Pinhal de Leiria, breathing in its fresh pine-scented air, and head for the resort of São Pedro de Moel.

Make a slight detour and drive up to Ponto Novo, a privileged spot for observing the immense "green and whispering cathedral", in the words of the poet Afonso Lopes Vieira.

Situated between the pine-forest and the sea, São Pedro de Moel has a magnificent beach and is an excellent spot for surfing. Here you will find a swimming-pool of sea water and many restaurants with terraces where you can sit and enjoy the traditional cuisine based on the use of very fresh fish.
Make sure also to visit the Museum at the former home of the poet Afonso Lopes Vieira (1878-1946), its impressive exterior built in the style of the architect Raul Lino.

To the north of São Pedro de Moel, there are more than ten kilometres of immense sandy beaches, dunes and pine-forest.

At the seaside resort of Vieira, the fine craftsmanship and flavoursome regional cuisine reflect man's close links with the sea, whether in the tasty fish-stews and dishes of shellfish with rice or in the bright colours of the wooden boats.