Wild swimming at the windmill

Wild swimming has become one of my absolute favourite ways to spend a summer afternoon. Around the windmill, we're lucky to have some of the best wild swimming spots in central Portugal.

At Fadagosa, two rivers meet (Ribeira de Eiras and Ribeira do Carvoeiro), which means the water never runs dry. On a hot, sticky day, there is no better feeling than stepping into the crystal-clear river and immersing yourself. It's an instant refresh. You'll leave feeling cooler, cleaner, healthier and perhaps just a little bit wilder.

One of the best things about swimming here is the peace. It's rare to see another person, so if you'd rather leave the swimsuit behind, nobody is going to mind...

Another unexpected bonus? Unlike the sea, the freshwater won't leave you feeling salty and sticky. In fact, if you jump in wearing your clothes, they'll dry quickly and probably come out cleaner than when you went in. Who needs a washing machine?

Whether you love waterfalls, natural pools or simply dangling your feet in a cool stream with a picnic, there's a spot for you.

People sometimes ask us whether we'll ever build a swimming pool at The Windmill.

Our answer?

No. No. No.

When nature has already created swimming pools like these, why would we?

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