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Peniche skatepark tour in Portugal

Continuing our ambitious mission to skate and film every skatepark in Portugal, we arrived at Peniche, a renowned surfer's paradise located in the western coastal region of the country.

Our next stop was Peniche Skatepark, unfortunately known as one of the worst skateparks in Portugal. Despite its lackluster reputation, we were joined by a dedicated crew consisting of Tiago Miguel, Buga, Margarida Cepeda, and Rodrigo Simão behind the camera. While the skatepark may not be worth visiting, Peniche's vibrant surf culture and picturesque setting compensate for its underwhelming skatepark.

Peniche skatepark

Peniche Skatepark, unfortunately, falls short of expectations when it comes to skateboarding facilities. Considered one of the worst skateparks in Portugal, its limitations and lack of quality hinder the potential for a remarkable skate session. However, our crew embraced the challenge, using their skills and creativity to make the most of the limited features. Tiago Miguel, Buga, and Margarida Cepeda pushed their limits, finding lines and tricks within the constraints of the skatepark, while Rodrigo Simão captured the action behind the camera. While the skatepark may not be noteworthy, the dedication and passion of our crew shone through, making the best of an underwhelming situation.

Peniche

Peniche, with its population of approximately 26,429 residents, holds a special place in the hearts of surfers worldwide. Situated on a peninsula, Peniche is blessed with stunning beaches and world-class waves that attract surf enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. The town exudes a laid-back, coastal vibe and offers a vibrant surf culture that permeates its streets and waters. Beyond the skatepark, Peniche provides an array of experiences for those seeking sun, sand, and unforgettable surf sessions.

Beyond the skatepark, Peniche offers a treasure trove of experiences. The town's historic center showcases its rich maritime heritage and offers charming streets to wander, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Peniche's location on the coast provides an opportunity for breathtaking coastal walks, invigorating swims, or simply basking in the beauty of the surrounding nature. Surfers will find themselves in paradise, with numerous surf breaks catering to different skill levels. Peniche's vibrant surf culture, coupled with its natural beauty, makes it a destination worth exploring, even if the skatepark doesn't live up to expectations.

In conclusion, while Peniche Skatepark may not be a standout destination for skateboarders, Peniche itself compensates with its vibrant surf culture, breathtaking beaches, and picturesque coastal setting. Surfers flock to Peniche for its world-class waves, and although the skatepark falls short, our crew made the best of the situation, showcasing their dedication and creativity. From the town's historic center to the exhilarating surf breaks, Peniche offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors seeking a coastal adventure in Portugal.

Crew: Tiago Miguel, Buga, Margarida Cepeda and Rodrigo Simão

Visit Peniche skatepark

By Haroun Cherif

The Mystery of the Belmonte Bowl

Quandary in the Quarry - The Mystery of the Belmonte Bowl. The village of Belmonte (population: ca. 3500) lies towards the northeastern part of Portugal. It’s head of a rural municipality where you can find about 54 people per square kilometre and where they’re highly likely to be advanced in years, as the ratio of elderly to young people is close to 3:1. Towards the northeastern part of the village, not far from the local Intermarché supermarket, there’s a small residential neighbourhood facing an abandoned quarry. Inside this quarry sits one of the biggest skate bowls in the world. It’s a kidney shaped bowl, wrapped around a half-pipe that leads to a fullpipe ending in a cradle. The pictures should help make this clearer. It’s close to 4 metres deep and has almost a full metre of vert all around. There are oververt extensions over a metre tall. It’s a beast of a thing, especially when you consider the standards of skateboarding and skateparks in Portugal. Anyone that sees it immediately asks himself “What the hell is this doing here?” And it seems to me to be a fair, reasonable question. Anyway, when faced with a Portuguese skate-related mystery, there’s always one thing you can do, and that’s call up Luís Paulo. This dude was the first Portuguese skater ever to get sponsored, one of the few to have met Tony Hawk and the only one to have done an aerial over him, so he’s been in the game for a bit and knows his shit. I thank him for giving us the lowdown on this one. Apparently the whole idea came from the Belmonte Municipality. They are close to Serra da Estrela, the only ski resort in Portugal, where there’s also quite a bit of downhill biking and hang gliding going on in the summer, so they figured a skatepark would attract some of that crowd and get some more visitors to come to the village. Not a bad intuition. However, as it often happens, they didn’t consult any skateboarders before diving into the project. At the time, the largest skatepark in the world had just been built in Shanghai (SMP Skatepark – it’s since been surpassed by the one in Guangzhou) and the architects hired to do the job in Belmonte decided to take inspiration from one of its sections. They did an impressive job: the bowl is nicely tucked inside the quarry walls, the transition is good and the full pipe and cradle look amazing. The only problem is that vert skaters in Portugal are thin on the ground. They did build a street section above the bowl, but unfortunately they didn’t study this subject as well as the transition bit, and it’s just unskateable. As it is, the Belmonte Skatepark, which was inaugurated in April of 2011, is about to celebrate its tenth anniversary with a still pristine coping. We have seen examples of what can go down at that bowl when the right people find it, but they’ve been few and far between. In 2012, Jake Phelps and the Thrasher crew (P-Stone, Rhino) came by and brought Peter Hewitt, Pedro Barros, and Grant Taylor for some serious ripping. One year later the Carve Wicked team (Sam Pulley, Alex Perelson, Sam Beckett, Rob Smith, etc.) also dropped some hammers. But the place can take it. In fact, it’s begging for it. If you’re into big walls, start planning that trip and type this into your GPS.

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Santarém skatepark tour in Portugal

Nestled in the heart of Portugal, the vibrant town of Santarém boasts an extraordinary gem for skateboarders and enthusiasts alike—the Santarém Skatepark. This urban oasis is more than just a place to ride; it's a masterpiece inspired by renowned skateboarding spots around the world. The ingenious design marries elements from iconic locales like the Hubba Hideout in San Francisco, the Brooklyn Banks in New York, and the Las Olas de Besós in Barcelona, resulting in a skatepark that's a true homage to the global skateboarding culture. The homage to these legendary spots isn't just a mere replication—it's a celebration of the spirit of skateboarding that transcends borders. The Hubba Hideout's legendary stair set, the Brooklyn Banks' urban feel under your board, and the flowing lines of Las Olas de Besós' waves have all found a harmonious home in Santarém. This park isn't just a spot; it's a testament to the universal language of skateboarding. Beyond the skatepark, Santarém has much to offer curious explorers. As you take a break after a session, immerse yourself in the town's rich history and culture. Wander through its charming streets to discover medieval churches, gardens, museums and charming restaurants. The imposing Santarém Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, is a must-visit, offering panoramic views of the town. Santarém isn't just a skateboarding haven; it's a multifaceted experience waiting to be explored.   Santarém Skatepark stands as a testament to the boundless creativity that define skateboarding. As you navigate its inspired features, take a moment to appreciate the artistry that went into blending these legendary spots into a single, awe-inspiring playground. In Santarém, skateboarding and exploration unite, promising an unforgettable day in Portugal. Crew of the day: Rodrigo Russo (local skater), Tiago Miguel and Rodrigo Simão behind the camera. Visit Santarem skatepark

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Torres Vedras skatepark tour in Portugal

Welcome to the next exciting stop on our mission to skate and film every skatepark in Portugal! Today, we find ourselves in Torres Vedras, a city steeped in history and a vibrant skateboarding community. As we explore this charming place, we can't help but notice the rich heritage that blends seamlessly with the modern skateboarding culture. While the skatepark itself may be in need of some love and attention, the abundance of high-quality street spots makes Torres Vedras one of the best places we've visited on our skateboarding journey. Historical Charm Torres Vedras boasts a captivating history that dates back centuries. The city was strategically fortified during the Peninsular War, earning it the title of "Lines of Torres Vedras" – a defensive system that successfully halted the French invasion in the early 19th century. Today, visitors can still explore remnants of these fortifications and gain a glimpse into Portugal's past. The blend of old architecture and modern influences creates a unique backdrop for our skateboarding escapades, giving us a sense of connection with the past as we ride through the streets.   Places to Visit Beyond skateboarding, Torres Vedras offers a plethora of attractions for everyone to enjoy. The historic city center, with its narrow cobblestone streets and picturesque squares, is perfect for leisurely strolls. As we explore, we stumble upon quaint cafes serving delicious pastries and local delicacies. For a touch of culture, we immerse ourselves in the city's museums and art galleries, where the work of talented Portuguese artists is proudly displayed. Population and Community With a warm and welcoming population, Torres Vedras embraces its skateboarding community with open arms. We find like-minded individuals eager to join us in our mission to revive the skatepark and celebrate the sport we love. The locals' passion for skateboarding is evident. As we bond over shared tricks and tips, we discover that skateboarding has become a powerful unifying force in this charming city. Conclusion In conclusion, Torres Vedras captivates our hearts with its rich history, charming streets, and welcoming community. While the skatepark may be in need of renovation, the abundance of high-quality street spots compensates for it and makes Torres Vedras a must-visit destination for skateboarders of all levels. As we continue our journey across Portugal, we're grateful for the experiences and connections we've made in this extraordinary city. So, join us as we ride the streets, embrace the past, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Skate on! 🛹✨ Stay tuned for more skateboarding adventures and follow our journey. Visit Torres Vedras skatepark

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