Vila Nova de Milfontes is a Portuguese parish in the district of Odemira, Beja district, located on the north bank of the mouth of the river Mira. It is inserted in the Natural Park of Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina. It has 75,88 km ² of area and 5001 inhabitants (2011). Density: 65.9 hab / km².

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Vila Nova de Milfontes is a surprise, especially if you approach the road that passes through Cercal. In the estuary of the Mira river, it is whitewashed and pleasant, ideal for summer tourism. Advance along the main avenue perpendicular to the river and contribution to the marginal where stands the fort of São Vicente, built between 1599 and 1602 and classified as public interest.

The fort shows changes in relation to the time when it had a warlike function, the most visible after 1939, during the restoration works. In the exterior, the frieze of arched windows stands out, which finishes the wall of the low square and marks the silhouette of the fort seen from south or west, traced to improve the habitability of the fort. Previously the fort was to the north and to the east, a moat, outwardly bounded by counter-escarpment, which stretched a covered path, accessible from the moat by a stone staircase, which had since disappeared. The wall that now surrounds the moat of the castle and which forms the viewpoints of the Barbican is what remains of this ancient fortification outside.

The estuary of the Mira river in Milfontes, habitat of the most varied marine species, can be crossed by boat or traveled from Odemira. In the late afternoon, have a drink or enjoy a nice fresh fish dish on the breakwater, from where you can see the river beach and the estuary entrance. At the handicraft level, it is possible to find pieces in basketwork, works made in wood and cork and still pottery. The art of making baskets, practically extinct, is developed by only two or three artisans in the county.

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Fish is understandably the largest gastronomic resort in this region. Grilled and salted or in a well-watered cauldron, is well appreciated both in summer and winter. The seafood comes next, highlighting the perceve, the mussel and the limpets. But sweet potatoes, sausages, honey and medronho also delight diners.

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Due to its coastal location, Milfontes has a temperate and mild climate, with a dry period of 80 to 100 days, during the summer, where the average temperature varies between 23 ° C and 29 ° C.

 The nights can be quite cold, so be sure to wear a warm coat. During winter, temperatures are mild due to Atlantic influence.

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