Pack your bags and meet us in Santa Cruz, a Hidden Gem between Ericeira and Peniche. Where the uncertain and sometimes gloomy weather makes all the sunny days with clear skies a lot more special. This village enjoys a quiet tourism scene, making it perfect for anyone wanting to escape the crazy city life. Everything we've been longing for these days, actually.

As good foodies do, let's dive right into the best food spots:

Start your day with heavenly croissants at Café Parque. The kind of croissants you will tell everyone about afterwards. Then, savor the best at Noah and Vela D'Ouro. At Noah, each dish sparks curiosity and, of course, a desire to taste. Besides, not many places can say they have the best sea view in Santa Cruz. Vela D'Ouro is a classic Portuguese seafood restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a lunch gathering with family & friends.

Manel Bar is surely not one to miss. A visit to this bar feels like stepping into a living museum. This legendary bar has been a meeting point for generations, with its phenomenal cocktails (in every sense of the word) and a dish called the "Manuelinha" taking center stage. This is a regional specialty akin to the famous "Francesinha" sandwich from the north, but some argue it's even better.

Well, we're lucky to say that Portugal is kind of a little surf paradise. Good weather, great waves... pretty much wherever we go down the coast. In Santa Cruz, you can have all that with no crowd, how about that? If you're into surfing or simply want to have a good time at the beach, check out our beach itinerary. You may need one or way too many windbreakers but you already know.

One thing not to miss is the rock formation at Penedo do Guincho beach and the thrill of passing beneath it. Another is to walk along the "Passeio dos Poetas" dedicated to the works of Kazuo Dan, João de Barros, and Antero de Quental. This path honors their literary contributions.

Above all, Santa Cruz is a small village and sometimes the best plan is to have no plan at all. Taking a stroll along the cliffside benches and soaking in the views of the Atlantic may be the best way to discover some things along the way. At least, it's what we did.

We were mesmerized by the charm of this coastal village, where time seems to stand still. Cheers to that feeling.