The five best surfing locations in Europe

Europe’s leading surfing city

The salty waves that roll in over the beaches in Biarritz in the south of France attract both keen surfer tourists and professionals from all round the world. It’s here that the sport of surfing is said to have first gained a foothold in Europe and today, Biarritz is considered the leading surfing city in Europe, which can be seen by the large number of surfing schools here.

Surf and shellfish

Ericeira is about 50km north of Lisbon airport. This little fishing village is famous for its fantastic selection of shellfish, however most people that come here do so to catch the waves on a surfboard. The waves are a bit bigger in the fall and attract experienced surfers, so beginners are better advised to head to Ericeira in the spring. As it's close to Lisbon, a day trip can be a good idea, but if you wish, you can stay longer and explore all the neighboring surfing beaches.

For surf freaks and foodies

Visitors to San Sebastián in Spain are met by the paradise like turquoise sea and beaches. You’ll also spot a few surfers bobbing in the water on their boards. Thousands of people come here every year for a good time and to go surfing. There are three beaches and several surfing schools in the city. International competitions are also held here every year. Surf freak foodies will think they’ve gone to heaven in San Sebastián. The Basques are famous for their pintxos (small dishes that should not be confused with tapas) and San Sebastián always ranks very high among professional food critics.

England’s leading surfing town

When people talk about surfing, England is perhaps not the first country that comes to mind. However, Newquay in the far south west of the country, attracts surfers that come here year after year. The town hosts several international competitions each year and has nine different beaches to choose from. The 750m Fistral Beach is good for beginners. There are plenty of surfing schools if you fancy learning to surf or wish to improve. Some are open all year round.

Surf and sunbathing

Corralejo is in the north of Fuerteventura, one of the Spanish Canary Islands. Fuerteventura means strong wind in Spanish, so surfers are pretty much guaranteed big and powerful waves at any time of year. Visitors here are far more likely to be in the water on the lookout for waves than lying on the beach. You can surf any time of year, but the conditions are said to be best from October to May. If you’re an advanced surfer looking for a challenge, head along the gravel tracks to El Hierro, near the town of Majanicho.

Text by Amanda Hjelm