Nice review of climatic zones with the old data; climate change has begun to alter those old averages. 95 degrees would have been a relief from two weeks of 100 degrees plus weather in Coimbra and many places in the summer of 2023. That inferno was followed by a cooler than usual summer in ‘24. Next year ?
But touting climate zones as significant determinant for those already with health issues invites frustration , if not calamity. Portugals health system is on Life-support in many areas. There are “medical deserts” in Portugal and if your health condition may require a rapid response, 20 minutes is life or death, so choose wisely. Between 70-80% of the population is close to the coast, but distribution of medical care is even more concentrated. Weather is unpredictable; how long it takes to get to an ER can be calculated, albeit only as a best-case scenario.
Thank you for your comment, Dante. The article was intended to be a high level overview of the weather in Portugal, and I indicated that in the post. I also mentioned in the post that climate change can affect the average temperature and weather conditions. The article did not focus on medical assistance and the overall health care system in Portugal including the 'medical deserts' you mentioned. Many countries have that problem. That topic will be covered in a future article. - CW
Thanks for your message. The Silver Coast is a lovely area, in my opinion.
The Silver Coast is increasingly becoming a desirable destination for foreigners, particularly retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Several factors contribute to its appeal including affordability compared to other European coastal areas; lifestyle with landscapes and a relaxed, slower pace of life; a growing number of expats have settled in the area; and its proximity to Lisbon.
Of course, it largely depends on personal preferences and expectations. We considered moving to the Silver Coast when we were first thinking about moving to Portugal, but ultimately decided on being closer to Lisbon and Cascais along the coast.
The folks at Portugal the Place, a relocation service have strong roots on the Silver Coast. If you need contact information about them, send me an email and I'll be happy to provide it to you. - CW
Great synopsis, thank you!. On a recent trip through northern PT (Bragança) and on into Spain I found it interesting how dry that area is, having "assumed" all of northern PT was like Gerês. Indeed a wine expert from Chaves told me that the Trás-Os-Montes area, from Chaves and east to the border, has its own climate and viniculture for their wines. And of course the Alto-Alentejo is quite different from the vast rolling plains of the Alentejo. Fascinating differences in geography, geology and climate in such a compact country!
Thank you, very comprehensive. Several Porto natives I’ve heard from say that this year’s summer has been cooler than in previous years, and has been trending that way for a bit. Before we left Florida, it was unbearable to be outside, so the weather in Porto is delightful for a newbie.
Thanks for your comment, Maria. In the 3 years that we've lived in Portugal, no two seasons have been the same. I'm sure you're happy that you're not in Florida anymore! Enjoy the Porto weather! - CW
A helpful overview, thank you. I want to amend your comments on the Alentejo region however. We live on the Alentejo coast and we experience the best weather I’ve ever enjoyed (I’ve lived in Pennsylvania, Boston, Wyoming, Oregon and Southern Spain). Our winters are mild, we receive some rain in early spring, but our summers are gorgeous with low 60s at night, daytime highs rarely above the low 80s but most often in the 70s, and always a pleasant breeze off the ocean.
I was so excited to see this topic! It is asked so frequently. Many newcomers find that their diet and exercise reduce their dependencies on medications for high blood pressure and cholesterol, but the weather itself brings new allergies and respiratory issues. Thanks so much and great photos from Paul.
Nice review of climatic zones with the old data; climate change has begun to alter those old averages. 95 degrees would have been a relief from two weeks of 100 degrees plus weather in Coimbra and many places in the summer of 2023. That inferno was followed by a cooler than usual summer in ‘24. Next year ?
But touting climate zones as significant determinant for those already with health issues invites frustration , if not calamity. Portugals health system is on Life-support in many areas. There are “medical deserts” in Portugal and if your health condition may require a rapid response, 20 minutes is life or death, so choose wisely. Between 70-80% of the population is close to the coast, but distribution of medical care is even more concentrated. Weather is unpredictable; how long it takes to get to an ER can be calculated, albeit only as a best-case scenario.
Thank you for your comment, Dante. The article was intended to be a high level overview of the weather in Portugal, and I indicated that in the post. I also mentioned in the post that climate change can affect the average temperature and weather conditions. The article did not focus on medical assistance and the overall health care system in Portugal including the 'medical deserts' you mentioned. Many countries have that problem. That topic will be covered in a future article. - CW
Hi Carol, what is your opinion of the Silver Coast?
Hello Vernon,
Thanks for your message. The Silver Coast is a lovely area, in my opinion.
The Silver Coast is increasingly becoming a desirable destination for foreigners, particularly retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Several factors contribute to its appeal including affordability compared to other European coastal areas; lifestyle with landscapes and a relaxed, slower pace of life; a growing number of expats have settled in the area; and its proximity to Lisbon.
Of course, it largely depends on personal preferences and expectations. We considered moving to the Silver Coast when we were first thinking about moving to Portugal, but ultimately decided on being closer to Lisbon and Cascais along the coast.
The folks at Portugal the Place, a relocation service have strong roots on the Silver Coast. If you need contact information about them, send me an email and I'll be happy to provide it to you. - CW
Thank you so much for this article. It's one of the best I've read yet and so helpful!
Great synopsis, thank you!. On a recent trip through northern PT (Bragança) and on into Spain I found it interesting how dry that area is, having "assumed" all of northern PT was like Gerês. Indeed a wine expert from Chaves told me that the Trás-Os-Montes area, from Chaves and east to the border, has its own climate and viniculture for their wines. And of course the Alto-Alentejo is quite different from the vast rolling plains of the Alentejo. Fascinating differences in geography, geology and climate in such a compact country!
Thank you, very comprehensive. Several Porto natives I’ve heard from say that this year’s summer has been cooler than in previous years, and has been trending that way for a bit. Before we left Florida, it was unbearable to be outside, so the weather in Porto is delightful for a newbie.
Thanks for your comment, Maria. In the 3 years that we've lived in Portugal, no two seasons have been the same. I'm sure you're happy that you're not in Florida anymore! Enjoy the Porto weather! - CW
A helpful overview, thank you. I want to amend your comments on the Alentejo region however. We live on the Alentejo coast and we experience the best weather I’ve ever enjoyed (I’ve lived in Pennsylvania, Boston, Wyoming, Oregon and Southern Spain). Our winters are mild, we receive some rain in early spring, but our summers are gorgeous with low 60s at night, daytime highs rarely above the low 80s but most often in the 70s, and always a pleasant breeze off the ocean.
I was so excited to see this topic! It is asked so frequently. Many newcomers find that their diet and exercise reduce their dependencies on medications for high blood pressure and cholesterol, but the weather itself brings new allergies and respiratory issues. Thanks so much and great photos from Paul.
The Leiria and Peniche area are also pssible locations. They have moderate clima, and a lot of different facilities