Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Pop icon Madonna has praised a picturesque European destination for boasting "the most beautiful beach in the world". The 66-year-old music legend took time out of her tour to visit an unexpected holiday spot along the European coastline. Taking some time out for rest and relaxation, Madonna visited Portugal, discovering the delightful Praia da Comporta. Heralded as one of the chicest stretches of sand along the European coast, Praia da Comporta lies within Portugal's Alentejo region. For those keen on visiting, it's only a short hour-and-a-half journey from Lisbon, with a direct flight from London to the Portuguese capital clocking in at just under three hours, making the stunning beach reachable within less than half a day of travelling. During her visit, Madonna documented her experience on Instagram. She posted: "A trip to my favourite dentist in Lisbon, Miguel Stanley, means I get to see my musical family and friends and visit the most beautiful beach in the world: Comporta," reports the Express. (Image: (Image: INSTAGRAM/MADONNA)) While tourist hotspots like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve get the attention, Comporta remains a hidden gem amongst holiday destinations. Now, both fans and travel enthusiasts are left intrigued, pondering the allure of this under-the-radar oasis of sun, sea, and serenity. The beach Located within the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, this beach remains unspoiled, boasting untouched dune vegetation and a nearby forest. Due to its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque landscape, the sprawling beach is remarkably less crowded in comparison to other sought-after Portuguese destinations. Positioned south of Lisbon, on the Tróia Peninsula's edge, it lies hidden from the hustle and bustle of Portugal's busy resorts. One impressed Tripadvisor reviewer wrote: "Honestly one of the nicest and most beautiful beaches I have visited. "Not crowded at all. Partly because we visited in the off season and partly because the beach is so long that you can find an empty corner if you walk a little bit further." The village The stunning beach is situated in Comporta, a quaint coastal town inhabited by under 1,500 full-time residents and spanning more than 50 square miles, predominantly consisting of idyllic beaches. Comporta is often referred to as the "Hamptons of Portugal", a nod to its high-end visitors. The town is said to exude a sense of exclusivity, featuring luxury villages and a refined, laid-back ambiance. Flamingos You read that correctly - Comporta's coastal region is indeed a habitat for majestic flamingos. During a visit to the adjacent "animal paradise", you can witness a flock of pink flamingos thriving in their natural environment. The Sado Estuary Natural Reserve is a favourite spot for the magnificent birds that gently dip their beaks into the natural waters. However, they're not the only ones; it's believed that the area is home to over 250 bird species. (Image: (Image: Getty)) Like most locations in Portugal, Comporta boasts a true Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot summers and extremely mild winters. Summer temperatures often soar as high as 30C, while winter months maintain an average of around 10C. Its close proximity to the coast helps moderate extreme weather conditions, making it an ideal location for agriculture. As a result, the region is renowned for its rice fields and pristine forests.