The Santa Luzia River Beach, in Pampilhosa da Serra, won 2nd place in the 2018 River Beach of the Year Award, bestowed by the readers of the River Beaches Guide, having been the most voted for in the Central Region.
Through an online vote, the readers of the River Beach Guide elect their favourite river beach in the country. This time, Santa Luzia River Beach was only surpassed by Fraga da Pegada in Macedo de Cavaleiros, with Mourão River Beach taking third place.
The Santa Luzia River Beach and all the surrounding area has one of the most beautiful panoramas in the region and in the country as a whole. Nature in its pure state, the quality of the air and water and the breathtaking scenery make this an ideal destination to explore and enjoy, not only during the swimming season but throughout the entire year.
Over the past few years, the Aldeias do Xisto River Beaches have been recognised for the quality of their water and facilities. In 2019, 16 beaches received the Blue Flag certificate and 8 were awarded the Gold Medal by Quercus.
All the river beaches in the country that are classified by the APA - Portuguese Environment Agency, as well as a selection of the best non-classified swimming areas in Portugal, are eligible.