Peniche is a traditional Portuguese working harbour town occupying a peninsula fringed with unspoilt sandy beaches. It has a thriving fishing industry which has been sited away from the historic core of the town. The centre of Peniche is set within ancient walls, is cobbled and has many restaurants, cafés and shops. Here are the marina, fortress (now a museum), parks, cultural centre and farmers market - and Casa Azul.

There is an excellent array of restaurants and pastelarias (café/bar/bakery) in Peniche, with the delicious local produce and wines on the menu.

The area is brimming with historical interest. Peniche has a long history of lace-making, which can be observed in several cooperatives still practising. Wonderful calendar of festivals, including the Easter processions, and the Festival of Our Lady of Good Journeys. The region is renowned for its birdlife, and there are daily sea excursions to the nature reserve Isle de Berlinga, a precious bird site. Good coastal paths (and bird-watching) skirt around the peninsula.