Property for Sale in Caldas Da Rainha

Caldas Da Rainha is a city and municipality in the Oeste region, in the district of Leiria. In other words, it is part of Portugal’s Silver Coast, and lies just an hour’s drive north of Lisbon.  

Interestingly, Caldas da Rainha translates to “Queen’s hot springs” or “Spas of the Queen” and tells of the origin of the town. Way back in 1498, Queen Lenor, wife of King John II of Portugal, came across the town on her travels. She noticed that the peasants were bathing in seemingly unpleasant waters and enquired why, they told her that the water had healing powers. Queen Lenor then dipped in herself and was so impressed that she wanted the bathing site to be turned into a hospital (it still stands today!). From the late 19th to the 20th century, it was fashionable to visit Caldas for a spa getaway. If you would like a feel for this, you can visit the Parque D. Carlos I, with its row boats, tennis courts, olive groves, vineyards and cafes. Caldas’s fascinating history is also tied to its clay rich soil, as it is perfect for ceramics. Today, this is recorded in the 19th century estate turned museum with pieces dating back to the 1600s, Museu de Cerâmica. In 2019, Caldas was added to the UNSECO Creative City Network for crafts and folk art. The city is made up of cobbled streets, cafes, fresh markets and lots of artful nods to ceramics, fortunately, it is very easy to get around on foot.  

Just a thirteen-minute drive from the city is Praia Foz do Arelho beach, on one side you will find the tranquil waters of the Óbidos Lagoon, and on the other, the unrulier Atlantic Ocean (which is superb for surfing). Undoubtedly, Caldas would suit any ceramic-loving property buyer, looking to decorate their new Portuguese property with humorous trinkets and beautiful designs. But it would also be an excellent choice for anyone who loves to be surrounded by culture, history and the beach. 

The hot season in Caldas lasts from June to September, August is the warmest month with an average high of 26°C. While October and November are in the early teens to low twenties, the temperature drops in December, with an average high of 15°C. In March, the weather picks up 18 degrees.    

Caldas is closest to Lisbon International Airport, which has affordable flights year-round. The fastest way to get there is by car, in a little less than an hour. While the train and bus both serve as cheaper (but lengthier) options.  

Property for sale in Caldas is much more affordable than Comporta, the Algarve or Lisbon. The Silver Coast gains less attraction than these places as it is not as hot, cosmopolitan or glitzy – but it is incredibly cultured and characterful. If you fancy transforming a land plot for sale or even an old home into your Silver Coast paradise, you can purchase one for as little as €50,000. However, if that is not for you, then you will be able to find a one-bedroom apartment for around €120,000. If you are looking for a house for sale in Caldas Da Rainha, you can find a four-bedroom one for as little as €300,000. Additionally, Caldas has an increasing number of new build and off-plan projects popping up, though these tend to be slightly more expensive. Often, these homes will be built with the highest quality materials, a swimming pool and benefit from being just minutes away from the beach. It is worth bearing in mind that a similar property would cost you thousands more in the Algarve.