River view from Mil Reis
If Found, Please Return to Milfontes, Portugal
By Elizabeth Orient
W
hether by car, train, or airplane, I have been traveling my entire life. Amidst the madness, it’s too easy to lose sight of the purpose of your journey. Every once in a while, there is a place that grounds you as you fall irrevocably in love with its people, domain, and culture; a place that is full of magic and lights a re within you; a place that reminds you of your purpose. For me, that place is Vila Nova de Milfontes, Portugal
What to Ea Milfontes is a quaint, seaside village located about two hours south of Lisbon. After traveling by car or bus, you will more than likely be hungry upon arrival. This is where I say that you cannot, under any circumstances, leave without eating a chocolate croissant at Mabi. I
have had many a croissant in different countries (including France); none of them compare. I am still amazed that a tiny Portuguese village serves the best pastries in all of Europe. If you are in need of a more substantial meal, pack a few sweets for t h e r o a d a n d w a l k o v e r t o 1 8 e Piques for handcrafted sandwiches and salads that are made with locally sourced ingredients. Their honey, walnut, and goat cheese atbread is divine Be prepared to eat well, eat often, and take your time while doing so. After a long day, there is nothing better than having lunch at Porto das Barcas and dinner at Tasca do Celso. Spend a few hours at Porto das Barcas with friends to enjoy family-style food and wine. Rumor has it that the restaurant serves the best chocolate mousse (I have yet to con rm this theory). Tasca do Celso is the king of traditional seafood cuisine. I am known to be a picky eater and even I couldn’t s t a y a w a y f ro m their superbly fresh seafood
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