SURFLIFE GUESTHOUSE TOCHA
This unique place can be described as a guesthouse, surflodge, or surfcamp situated in Praia da Tocha, Portugal in the Coimbra region between Porto and Lisbon. Surflife Guesthouse Tocha is located on the main street of this lovely town, and just a 2 minute walk from the beach of Praia da Tocha. The lodge is run by a devoted Portuguese/Dutch couple, and they love to share their passion about surfing, yoga, nature and their local knowledge about this region!
Where the Forest meets the Ocean, Praia da Tocha
We offer you a true and adventurous surf holiday in Portugal, combined with other activities such as Surf Lessons/Courses, guided surf tours, level 2 surf coaching, surfaris, Stand up Paddle (SUP) and Yoga. We also rent out Surf and SUP equipment, such as Surf Boards, SUP boards and Wetsuits.
What makes this place so unique is the traditional Portuguese vibe and its traditional fishing method. Once a week we will organise a Bbq night with the best selected fish and “catch of the day” directly bought from the fishermen on the beach. More fresh is impossible!
Apart from the surf lessons or other activities, everything is on walking distance and you can walk to the beach at any time of the day, to relax, have a nice drink at one of the beach bars or simply use our gear and surf all day!
This unique place can be described as a guesthouse, surflodge, or surfcamp situated in Praia da Tocha, Portugal in the Coimbra region between Porto and Lisbon. Surflife Guesthouse Tocha is located on the main street of this lovely town, and just a 2 minute walk from the beach of Praia da Tocha. The lodge is run by a devoted Portuguese/Dutch couple, and they love to share their passion about surfing, yoga, nature and their local knowledge about this region!
Where the Forest meets the Ocean, Praia da Tocha
What this authentic beach town has to offer is a beautiful beach, right up front, a couple of nice bars and restaurants, two supermarkets, two cash machines, and they are all on walking distance. Book your next surf trip to is authentic small coastal town hidden in the forests of the Beira Litoral region, between Porto, Coimbra, and Lisbon.
We offer you a true and adventurous surf holiday in Portugal, combined with other activities such as Surf Lessons/Courses, guided surf tours, level 2 surf coaching, surfaris, Stand up Paddle (SUP) and Yoga. We also rent out Surf and SUP equipment, such as Surf Boards, SUP boards and Wetsuits.
Apart from the surf lessons or other activities, everything is on walking distance and you can walk to the beach at any time of the day, to relax, have a nice drink at one of the beach bars or simply use our gear and surf all day!
YOUR HOSTS
The lodge founded in 2011 and is run by a devoted Portuguese/Dutch family. They love to share their passion and knowledge about surfing, yoga and nature with you
Brian is a level 2surf coach and has a post-graduation degree in surf & performance and he is the perfect person to help you improve your surf skills. Besides his passion for surfing, he is an entertainer and loves to cook, play guitar and tell funny stories and jokes.
Claudia is a yoga teacher and loves to share the yoga lifestyle with her students. She is also a biologist and as a Portuguese “chica” she will be more than happy to tell you all about the treasures of the Portuguese culture, history and also show you the beautiful nature around.
Apart from Brian and Claudia the staff consists of a couple of volunteers and two surf instructors to make your stay as enjoyable and comfortable as possible!
CHOOSE YOUR PACKAGE
Stay
Our guesthouse is located on the main street and 100m from the beach of Praia da Tocha. There are a couple of nice bars, a few restaurants, from traditional Portuguese to pizza and steak and vegetarian, 2 supermarkets, 2 ATM machines, all on walking distance from our place. In total, we have 6 rooms: 2 mixed Dorm rooms, 2 Double rooms with private bathrooms and 2 Double/twin-bed room with shared bathrooms.
What this authentic beach town has to offer is a beautiful beach, right up front, a couple of nice bars and restaurants, two supermarkets, two cash machines, and they are all on walking distance. Book your next surf trip to is authentic small coastal town hidden in the forests of the Beira Litoral region, between Porto, Coimbra, and Lisbon.
SURF GUEST HOUSE
We offer you a true and adventurous surf holiday in Portugal, combined with other activities such as Surf Lessons/Courses, guided surf tours, level 2 surf coaching, surfaris, Stand up Paddle (SUP) and Yoga. We also rent out Surf and SUP equipment, such as Surf Boards, SUP boards and Wetsuits.
DORM ROOM
The mixed shared rooms have a 4 or 6 bed option and a shared bathroom. this option is perfect for a group of friends or single low rate travellers. Bedlinen is provided and all bathrooms are fully equipped with a shower and washbasin.
DOUBLE / TWIN ROOM
The 2-person rooms are fitted with a double or twin bed (140*200) and share the bathroom with one other room. Bedlinen is provided.
DOUBLE ROOM / FAMILY ROOM
The 2-person double rooms are fitted with a double bed and has a private bathroom. (140*200) Bedlinen is provided and all bathrooms are fully equipped with a shower and washbasin. This room also has a 3-bed option with the possibility of a baby crib. A perfect option for a family 3 friends or a couple who like a bid more comfort.
video Impression
Surfing
For intermediate or advanced surfers we offer level 2 Surf Coaching with special focuses on manoeuvres along the wave and we will go over different techniques and video analysis to help you improve your skills.
SURF LESSONS
We offer professional surf lessons for all levels taught by experienced and qualified surf instructors. They are passionate about teaching you how to surf. By taking surf lessons you can speed up the learning process significantly and quickly catch your first wave.
LEVEL 2 SURF COACHING
For intermediate of advanced surfers we offer special level 2 Surf Coaching with special focuses on flow, speed and turns along the wave using different techniques. Contact us and we’ll get your surf program worked out!
BOARDS & WETSUITS
Choose from all sorts of surfboards, from shortboards (from 6 foot), and mini-malibus (7,6 to 8 foot) to longboards (9 to 10 foot). You can also choose from soft-top surfboards of different sizes which are perfect for surf lessons and starting surfers. A wetsuit protects you during surfing from the cold water, bright sun and board rash.
Food
BREAKFAST
Update: There will be no breakfast buffet for season 2020 due to covid-19. Wake up in the morning and smell the fresh smell of coffee/tea and bread. Choose your own spot to have breakfast, wether it is indoor or in our beautiful garden.
Our breakfast is a variety of fresh bread, sweet and savory fillings combined with eggs, fruit, cereals, milk and juice.
LUNCH
For lunch or dinner there are many options. Praia da Tocha has a couple of nice restaurants where you can enjoy a nice lunch or dinner at an affordable price. From traditional Portuguese food till a sandwich, a salad, pizza, steak and vegetarian, it´s all possible! Off course you can also buy your own lunch at the market or supermarket and use our fully equipped kitchen.
DINNER/BBQ NIGHTS
Once a week we organise a bbq night in which the our customers can participate at a reasonable price. This yummy food will make you beg for more and put your energy levels back in place after a surf and yoga session! The lunch or dinner options are upon request and are available for groups (minimum of 6 people).
Things to do
PAINTBALL
Enjoy Paintball Games played in a large open field with natural obstacles. A fun activity when in between sessions!
KAJAK TRIPS
Descending the Mondego river from Penacova to Torres (Coimbra) you’ll experience portugal’s nature up close. Please ask the team on location for more information!
HORSEBACK RIDING
Wonder around through the forrest or on the beach and explore the beautiful scenery on a horse!
MASSAGE
For when you are tired and sore after your surf session. Our masseuse will make you feel relaxed and loose again!
CITY & NATURE TRIPS
Visit the student city of Coimbra, the Portuguese Venice – Aveiro, typical schist villages of Lousã, Serra da Boa viagem and Serra do Buçaco (ancient forests).
FAQ SURFCAMP
I booked through the website but have not yet received a confirmation?
Check your junk mail! It often happens that spam filters regard our mails as advertising or spam. The confirmation emails arrive at the e-mail address you booked with.
Still not? Then you should send an email to info@surflife.eu
How can I book the activities?
We offer fun activities at our destinations. You can book these with the crew on site. The prices and description of the activities on our website are subject to change. The prices can deviate on the spot. It is also possible that activities sometimes deviate from the description. This may be due to a changed local situation. Keep in mind that if there is too little interest in an activity, it will not be organised.
Participation in excursions is on a voluntary basis and always at the risk of the participants.
What are the bank details of Surflife?
The following data can be used when you want to make a payment to us:
ING Bank in Amsterdam
IBAN: NL72INGB0006663982
BIC: INGBNL2A
It is important that you mention your reservation number during the transfer
When do I have to pay?
As soon as you have received the confirmation from us, you must pay a deposit of 30% within 8 days. The remaining travel sum must then be received by us at least 6 weeks before departure. Pay attention! You will not receive a new invoice for this.
If you book a holiday within 6 weeks before departure, it is necessary that you immediately transfer the entire payment to us.
After booking, the main booker receives the invoice by mail. Payment terms are stated on this invoice.
Can I book a extra person?
It is often possible to book one or more people. This depends on the number of available bus seats and the accommodation you have booked.
When there are chairs available and your accommodation is suitable for 1 or more extra people, we calculate the travel sum for you. The person who is booked will receive the new travel sum. The already booked persons keep the old travel sum. This does not change.
If you want to book a person, the lead booker can send a mail. Of course, the main booker can also contact us by telephone via +31 (0)85-0031234.
Can I decide on spot if I want to stay an extra week?
You can decide this on the spot, but we can not guarantee anything.
Chances are that the camp or the bus is full for the next week, if you reserve in advance you will not run any risk!
How can I cancel my entire holiday?
If you cancel your holiday, we will charge you the cancellation costs according to our conditions. A cancellation is therefore not free of charge. The lead booker is the only person who can pass a cancellation.
Cancel the entire booking outside of 7 days before departure:
Tell us about your cancellation by e-mail, preferably with a reason. Within a few days after the cancellation, you will receive the cancellation invoice by mail. Have you already paid but you still get money from us, please mention your account number in the cancellation e-mail and we ensure that it is refunded as soon as possible.
If you cancel your holiday, we will charge you the cancellation costs according to our conditions. A cancellation is therefore not free of charge. The lead booker is the only person who can pass a cancellation.
Cancel the entire booking outside of 7 days before departure:
Tell us about your cancellation by e-mail, preferably with a reason. Within a few days after the cancellation, you will receive the cancellation invoice by mail. Have you already paid but you still get money from us, please mention your account number in the cancellation e-mail and we ensure that it is refunded as soon as possible.
Cancel the entire booking within 7 days of departure:
If you leave within 7 days, you can cancel the booking by e-mail but also call us at +31 (0)85-0031234!
What are the costs if I have to cancel?
We calculate costs according to our conditions:
If an agreement is canceled, the traveler will owe the following cancellation costs in addition to any reservation costs due:
– If you cancel more than 1 month before the trip, you pay 35% of the reservation value to the entrepreneur.
-To cancel more than 14 days before the trip 60% of the reservation value to the entrepreneur to pay.
– If you cancel more than 7 days before the trip, pay 85% of the reservation value to the entrepreneur.
-If canceled 7 days or less before the trip 100% of the reservation value to the entrepreneur to pay.
What other options are there except cancel?
In addition to canceling, you also have the following options:
Let someone else go instead of you:
The head booker can let someone else in your place. Until 1 week before departure, the head booker can change the name by e-mail at no additional cost.
Within 1 week of departure, it is only possible to notify changes by telephone.
Rebooking the holiday:
Up to 6 weeks before departure, the head booker can change the holiday. We do not charge any additional change costs for this. Please note that if the travel sum is higher, it will be charged to you.
Within 6 weeks before departure it is unfortunately no longer possible to book the holiday.
If you want to change the holiday, you can send us an e-mail. Of course you can also contact us by telephone via +31 (0)85-0031234.
What is the minimum age of Surflife Guesthouse Tocha?
The minimum age is 18+, but average is mid 20’s & up
Is there a crew on location?
Our own crew is present at all destinations. They are ready for you during your holiday. They welcome you on arrival at the destination, visit the accommodations and organize fun activities.
During the welcome meeting on Saturday you will receive more information about the activities that are offered and all kinds of useful facts and tips about your destination.
If you have questions or comments during your holiday, you can always talk to the crew about this. In addition, they are available 24 hours a day for emergencies.
Do you supply towels?
No we don’t. Please bring your own and don’t forget a bigger one for the beach.
I would like to come to the surfcamp by myself, Do or Don't?
Do not hesitate!
Most people are indeed with one or more friends. But there are also soloists every week! After the first night or already after the bus trip you probably already know half of the people. The 2nd half of the group is for the evening after.
Do you take into account vegetarians and / or food allergies?
Absolutely, indicate this in the booking or send us an email with your wishes or requirements. Do you really need specific ingredients? Then it is advisable to take this with you and hand it over to our supervisor. Not everything is available in the local supermarkets.
Are evening dinners included?
Dinners are not included but we have an incredible chef who loves cooking! His evening meals and weekly BBQ are a real highlight for our guests. We provide 1 or 2 evening meals per week, allowing for alternate nights out to explore the local area.
What food can I expect?
Healthy food, made with fresh products. An extensive breakfast is included in the room price. We also organise inhouse dinner nights 2 times per week and a weekly BBQ.
Can i cook myself?
Yes we have a fully equipped kitchen for the guests
Is there a supermarket nearby?
There is a daily market in the summer and there is a mini mercado and two bakeries just down the road where they have almost everything.
I have never surfed before, Do you have a program for someone like me?
About 80%-90% of our students have never surfed before so don’t worry about being the only beginner. The only experience you need is to be comfortable swimming in the surf zone and be able to tread water for a minimum of 5 minutes.
Do I need to pre-book activities?
In summer months it is recommended to pre-book your surf lessons as we can get quite busy. Our team of friendly hosts can assist with booking all your other activities upon arrival. .
I have some surf experience and want to work on more advanced maneuvers, do you offer programs for this?
Yes we work with students on intermediate and advanced levels of surfing including competitive surfing tips.
What is the ratio of students to instructors and what are the qualifications of the instructors?
Our student to instructor ratio varies depending on the students ability level. If you are a first time surfer we try to keep a ratio of 8-1.
All instructors have years of surfing/ teaching experience as well as CPR certification. Instructors are handpicked and trained by the FPS Portuguese surfing federation.
Is there a lifeguard at the beach you use, I am worried about some of the safety aspects of surfing?
All beaches we use do have lifeguards on duty at our location all summer. We also keep one of our instructors on the beach at all times to act as a lifeguard/instructor from the sand. If the conditions are too dangerous, which is rare, we don’t go in the water and have other activities.
What is the address of the Guesthouse?
Rua dos Pescadores da Nossa Senhora da Tocha, nº 33
3060-691 Tocha / Portugal
We come with own transport, at what time can we check in?
With your own transport you are welcome from Saturday morning 10am, the accommodations are usually available around noon.
Do you offer car parking?
Car parking is onsite and free of charge. (outside campsite)
Why take out travel insurance?
The average cost for overseas medical treatment is £2,040, but can be much higher.
For example, in one case treating multiple fractures and an artery tear in the USA, a British citizen was forced to take an air ambulance back to the UK.
The cost of the treatment and transport was close to £500,000.
- Getting medical care on holiday could cost you thousands of pounds.
- Travel insurance that covers getting you home and medical expenses is essential.
- Other insurance – like credit card accident cover and private health insurance – doesn’t cover most travel emergencies.
- Without insurance, you might have to cover emergency expenses on your own – the British Consulate is unlikely to help you.
What does travel insurance cover?
Most policies include cover for:
- Lost or stolen bags*
- Emergency medical expenses
- The costs of cancelling, delaying or cutting your trip short*
- Personal liability, in case you’re sued for damaging property or causing injury
*Baggage and cancellation cover might be additional extras within some policies.
What isn’t covered by travel insurance?
There are some common things you should watch out for:
- If you’re over 65 or have a medical condition, you might need specialist insurance. If you have a medical condition you have to tell your insurer if asked or risk invalidating your insurance policy. When you buy insurance you must answer all questions about your circumstances and health honestly. You have to include everything, even if you think it’s not important, for example taking regular tablets for high blood pressure or angina. If you don’t your policy won’t be valid.
- Adventure sports, winter sports and any ‘dangerous activities’ are often not covered as part of a standard travel insurance policy and you might need extra cover.
- With most policies, you aren’t covered for travel to countries or regions that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office recommends avoiding – view the latest list on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website
- Coverage for strikes, civil unrest, earthquakes, acts of terrorism and epidemics such as SARS varies.
Do you still need travel insurance if you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
- With an EHIC (formerly E111) you get the same level of state-provided medical care as someone who lives in the country you’re visiting. It’s valid in all European Economic Area countries and Switzerland.
- The downside is that the local level of care might not be the same as what you’d get in the UK. You’ll also need to pay for part of your bills, if that’s how the local system works.
- EHIC won’t cover the costs of repatriation – getting you back home – after a medical emergency on holiday could be very costly.
- If you use an EHIC to get medical care, some insurers won’t ask you to pay the excess on your medical claims.
- While it’s worth getting an EHIC, it’s not enough on its own. You should still get travel insurance that includes medical and repatriation cover.
Can travel insurance represent good value?
The main benefit of travel insurance is in having emergency medical cover on holiday.
- What happens if you have a bad fall on the ski slopes and need a helicopter to a good hospital?
- How would you cope if one of the kids fell ill – even with something minor – in the US or another country with sky-high medical costs?
With those costs covered, you’ll quickly realise the value of having a holiday insurance policy.
The cover you get for personal possessions can be covered under your home contents insurance policy.
It’s best to check whether you have this already before you add it to your travel policy.
Some travel insurers will give you a discount if you exclude baggage cover.
CONTACT US
BRIAN
Need help choosing your ideal summer? We are happy to assist you!
We respond to e-mails as quickly as possible, but it is often faster to speak to our crew by telephone. Call us now!
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