GLEX unites explorers, field scientists, and world travelers for a weekend of experiences and campfire storytelling like none other. This year, we descend on the historic city of Coimbra in Portugal, home to one of the oldest Universities in Europe, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hear tales from explorers pushing the boundaries of human knowledge, or launch your next expedition alongside astronauts, astronomers, surfers, and musicians.
Stick around for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the biggest waves in the world, with the pioneering surfer who rides them.
Wednesday, October 28
We’ll kick things off with a relaxed welcome meet-up alongside our Portugal Chapter, open to all Club Members and their friends.
October 29th – Coimbra – GLEX IGNITION
GLEX ignites on Thursday with our annual conference, bringing together explorers from across the world to chart the future of exploration and celebrate the shared human pursuit of discovery.
Featuring storytellers and scientists at the top of their fields. From the surf to the stars, speakers like Andreas Mogensen, ESA Astronaut + former Commander of the ISS, and Cliff Kapono, pro-surfer and ocean chemist, will take center stage to talk about what’s next in exploration.
Includes a rhythm of 4 sessions — with a coffee, lunch, and tea break in between — to maximize time for guests to interact with one another. See below for a list of additional speakers, with extra announcements coming soon!
The day will conclude with an Ignition Party in Coimbra, including dinner and networking alongside fellow Coimbra Pass, Nazaré Pass, and Big Wave Pass Holders.
October 30th – Coimbra
Spend a relaxing day in historic Coimbra with tours of the city and its historic Roman ruins. With add-on options from our partners Kensington to tour wine country, meander in olive oil groves, explore nearby classical towns, or journey along central mountain passes.
The Club will host a special announcement with UNESCO at the Coimbra World Heritage Site, and will also host a space industry workshop with the Coimbra Supernova Initiative.
We’ll end the day with a GLEX closing party at the Quinta das Lágrimas Hotel.
For Coimbra, Nazaré, and Big Wave pass holders.
October 31 – Nazaré
Coimbra affords us the unique opportunity to visit Nazaré, home of the biggest waves in the world.
Nazaré Pass
Journey to Nazaré for a day at the edge. Watch big wave surfers tackle the biggest waves in Nazaré, home to record-breaking waves. Explore the coastline with experts and learn about the legendary Nazaré Canyon. Wander the historic streets of Nazaré and take a guided tour of the famous Praia do Norte Lighthouse.
Big Wave Pass
A once-in-a-lifetime vantage point, only for the Members who want to experience big waves on the ocean. This experience includes the full Nazaré Field Trip, plus the thrill of a lifetime: Ride in tandem with big wave surfers in water with giants. Feel the raw power of the world’s largest waves with Hugo Vau – EC Member and Nazaré Big Wave Icon. Includes surf equipment, jet skis, training and boat support.
Both experiences include bus charter from Coimbra and an optional charter back to Coimbra.
Extend your experience with our travel partners at Kensington.
Kensington has generously offered two opportunities to experience the best that Portugal has to offer.
Lisbon’s steep hills and Porto’s wine-soaked shores offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and indulgence. With a Destination Expert curating your journey, learn to cook Portuguese classics, explore ancient streets, and visit centuries-old vineyards. Every twist and turn brings you closer to Portugal’s charm, with tasty treats and a glass of wine never far from reach.
Pre-GLEX Portugal Highlights (October 24-28)
Post-GLEX Portugal Highlights (October 31 – November 4)
The travel experts from Kensington are also available to help you book airport transfers, and special field trips on Friday, Oct 30, including day trips into wine country, olive oil groves, historic villages, or central mountain passes.
