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Beaches in the Algarve
The Algarve's 200 kilometers stretch of southern shoreline is one of
Europe's most popular holiday destinations. The region has attracted
visitors since the time of the Phoenicians, but today it caters for
millions of tourists a year with its stunning coastline, excellent golf
courses and pleasant year round climate.
Beaches North-Western Algarve - Aljezur
The boundaries of Aljezur municipality mark out a broad rectangle
delimited by the sea and the hills, and its landscapes reflect this dual
influence.
While the coast is marked by high cliffs beneath which huddle sandy
coves and pristine dunes, the hinterland is a place of rolling hills
covered with vegetation that recede, row upon row, as far as the eye can
see. Between the two extends a broad strip of fertile fields and valleys
where the traditional crops of vegetables, sweet potatoes and peanuts
are still grown.
| The sea has carved tall cliffs from the schist hills along the
coast where birds nest and wild flowers grow. Here and there in
bays that face the sun and the ocean, are long beaches of dark
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Odeceixe - has a long beach, cut in two by the mouth of
the Seixe creek. The resort is calm and family oriented with
facilities for visitors. There are impressive views of the sea
from the Miradouro da Ponta Branca.
Quebrada - is a narrow beach squeezed between the sea and
the cliffs. Little visited.
Samouqueira, Vale dos Homens & Carriagem - Quiet, little
frequented beaches.
Amoreira & Monte Clerigo - these two beaches lie next to
each other, separated by rocks. There are facilities for
visitors. The coast is punctuated by fascinating rock
formations, ending at Ponta da Atalaia, which means Lookout
Point.
Arrifana - a long stretch of sand sheltered by cliffs
with a picturesque fishing port. Arrifana is linked to the
historical figure of the Moorish prince and poet Ibn Caci (12th
century) who lived here as a recluse. There are ruins of an old
fort (17th century) built to defend the tuna fishermen and their
gear. At the end of the cliffs Pedra da Agulha (literally Needle
Rock) rises majestically from the sea.
Penedo, Vale Figueiras & Canal - beaches of great beauty
that see few visitors.
Bordeira & Amado - long beaches In Bordeira stand the
ruins of a former defensive fort built to repel pirate attacks
(17th century). Near to Amado the so-called Pedra do Cavaleiro
(Knight's Rock) stands amid the waves Between the two beaches
lies the rock formation of Pontal, surrounded bays and high
cliffs.
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Beaches Western Algarve - Sagres
The mythical atmosphere surrounding Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente ( Cape St.
Vincent), places dedicated to the gods for thousands of years.
Murração - A small beach with a broad stretch of sand.
Mirouço - An isolated beach. Access difficult.
Mouranitos, Barriga and Cordama - A series of broad beaches separated by
cliffs but with access between them. Very quiet.
Castelejo - A beach surrounded by rock formations. Tourist facilities.
Águia & Ponta Ruiva - Stretches of sand at the foot of steep escarpments.
Little visited.
Telheiro - Pleasant sheltered beach.
Belixe - Sandy beach at the font of a small bay scooped out of the cliff.
Calm.
Tonel - A sheltered beach with good views of the Ponta de Sagres and Cabo
de São Vicente. Support facilities.
Mareta & Baleeira - Long beaches. Tourist facilities. Starting point for
discovering the underwater delights of a coast dotted with caves and hollows.
Martinhal & Rebolinhos - Long beaches surrounded by a broad bay. Scenic
islets opposite the beach. Tourist facilities.
Barranco, José Vaz, Ingrina & Zavial - Sandy coves on the edge of little
bays. Calm. Tourist facilities.
Figueira & Foz de Benaçoitão - Small isolated beaches.
Salema - Located in a picturesque fishing village. Pleasant beach.
Tourist facilities
Boca do Rio - Stretch of sand along the bottom of a valley crossed by two
gentle streams. Peaceful.
Cabanas, Velhas & Almádena - Small and seldom visited beaches.
Burgau - A typical fishing port looking out on the sea. Calm and family
oriented. Tourist facilities.
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Beaches Western Algarve - Lagos
The beaches around Lagos are some of the most beautiful of the Algarve,
like Praia de Dona Ana, which can be reached after a 25 minutes walk from
the center of the town, Praia do Camilo, a bit further on, and Meia Praia,
whose sands stretch for 4 km (2.5 miles) east of Lagos. However, it is the
promontory named Ponta da Piedade and sheltering the bay of Lagos which is
most admired by visitors, with its caves, rocks and wonderfully
transparent waters. North of Lagos, Barragem de Bravura is a water
reservoir offering fine views.
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Are you looking for
long beaches where the sand and the ocean get lost in the horizon?
Do you prefer cosy beaches hidden among colourful rocks, far from
the world? Make up you mind and choose one of the wonderful beaches
on the Lagos coast.
Meia Praia or São
Roque - This broad expanse of sand stretches for 4 km (2.5
miles) and offers all kinds of facilities for those who enjoy water
sports. On the isthmus of the Alvor bar stands Meia Praia fort,
which defended Lagos bay in the 17th and 18th centuries. Historians
say that it was off these beaches that the galleons carrying the
treasure of Moctezuma, an Aztec emperor captured by the soldiers of
Herman Cortez, were shipwrecked in 1522.
Batata, Estudantes,
Homers, Pinhão, Dona Ana and Camilo - Sandy coves tucked between
brightly coloured cliffs, these beaches include some interesting
rock formations. Calm and clear water. Many believe these to be the
most delightful beaches in the Algarve.
Canavial and Porto
de Mós - Long beaches between cliffs. Tourist facilities.
Luz - A tourist
centre with a cosmopolitan flavour. Large beach.
Dona Maria - A
calm and isolated beach
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Beaches Western Algarve - Portimão
First the blue sea and
its gently lapping waves. Then fine golden sands framed by cliffs and
rocks. The cosmopolitan atmosphere of an international tourist
destination. This is the Algarve of beach holidays in the sun.
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 Alvor
- A long beach that extends as far as the eye can see, until it reaches
the Ria de Aivor estuary. An international tourism centre.
 Tres
Irmãos and Prainha - A series of tiny beaches separated by outcrops
of ochre rock in which the sea has worn tunnels that offer an unusual
means of across.
 João
de Arens - A small stretch of sand set among cliffs, rocks and
islands, it is associated with a fearless shepherd immortalised by the
writer Manuel Teixeira Gores, a native of Portimão, in his book "Agosto
Azul" (Blue August).
 Vau
- A charming beach flanked by cliffs. Its calm atmosphere iodine-rich
waters and fascinating rock formations make it popular with families.
 Praia
da Rocha may be the most famous resort in the area, but the beaches
that extend all the way to Alvor have their own particular appeal.
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Beaches Western Algarve -
Lagoa
It is not known when Lagoa was founded, and it was
only after 1773, when it was elevated to the status of a town; that its
history was first documented; but it is known that Estombar and Porches
were important centres in the Islamic and medieval periods and that Ferragudo had defensive ramparts. Nowadays Lagoa is at the forefront of
the modern Algarve.
Viewed from the sea, the coast is a series of brightly colored
cliffs, strangely shaped outcrops and caves, whose almost unreal beauty
is set off by the clarity of the waters. Between the rocks long
stretches of sand alternate with tiny coves that can only, be reached by
boat.
Angrinha & Praia Grande - Two beaches next to Ferragudo separated
by the Fort of São João de Arade. On Angrinha beach there are facilities
for windsurfing and canoeing.
Pintadinho - A small beach where the water is calm.
Caneiros - Situated between cliffs of great beauty. Opposite, the colourful rock of Leixão das Gaivotas. Very tranquil.
Mato - Little visited. Access difficult.
Carvoeiro - The charm of a fishermen's beach and a small bay with
crystal clear water. A cosmopolitan tourist centre. Boats can be hired
to visit caves and isolated beaches.
Vale de Centeanes - Scenic location between rocks and cliffs.
Good conditions for surfing.
Carvalho - Stretch of sand between ochre cliff's. Peaceful.
Tourist facilities.
Benagil - Charming beach next to a pretty fishing village. It is
possible to hire boats to get to isolated beaches.
Marinha, Barranquinho, Albandeira & Barranco - A series of small
beaches which can be reached along the coast by nay of rocks and natural
tunnels. Little visited and quiet.
Praia Nova & Nossa Senhora da Rocha - Two beaches separated by
the spur of rock on which stands the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Rocha...
but connected by a tunnel. It is possible to hire boats to explore the
coast or get to isolated beaches.
Cova Redonda - Small and charming beach between cliffs. Tourist
facilities.
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Beaches Central Algarve - Albufeira
Albufeira boasts
beaches where the sand is fine and the sea a turquoise blue sheltered by
cliffs which are canvasses painted with a whimsical palette of natural
hues. It is for its beaches that Albufeira is internationally renowned,
because all of them are different... and they are all equally
enchanting.
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Beaches |
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Albufeira
There is ample parking space. There are two beaches both with
bar/restaurant facilities serving excellent food. A cool drink watching
the sun go down is highly recommended. Even in summer, remains free of the
crowds that fill more popular nearby beaches. This beach offers a stunning
panoramic view of the steep cliff lined coast. For those people who enjoy
walking there are some beautiful cliff top walks and coves to explore
along the coastline which seem to go on forever.
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Praia do Castelo - Albufeira
A short pathway leads from the car park to the beach. The particularly
fine, clean sand in this protected bay. There is a car park nearby
situated directly above the cliffs as well as a restaurant.
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Fishermans Beach - Albufeira
A long strip of beautiful sand made up of three beaches: Peneco, Pescadores
and Inatel. Popular in high season and safe for children. Tourist and water
sports facilities all available. You can walk along the continuous sweeping
stretch to Oura, Balaia, Maria Luísa and Olhos de Agua - A series of beaches
with interesting colourful cliffs. |
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Praia da Galé - Albufeira Praia da Galé, to the west of the holiday resort of Albufeira
Runs for several km to the west where it merges into the Praia de Armação de
Pêra. It is ideal for families and there is plenty of parking. Very safe for children.This beach rarely becomes crowded owing to its length. Tourist and
sports facilities available.including water-skiing, windsurfing
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Armação Beach - Armação de Pêra
Running the length of the sea-front of the town of Armação de Pêra a small
seaside resort situated between Carvoeiro and Albufeira. A 5 km long sandy
beach which is ideal for families.The beach lies alongside a range of
facilities for visitors including cafes, restaurants, shops and other
leisure activities. |
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Carvoeiro Town Beach - Carvoeiro
Along with Albufeira the town beach of Carvoeiro is one of the most
picturesque beaches in southern Portugal. A beach bar provides snacks and
refreshment. |
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Praia da Rocha
Another lovely beach. Located just south of the main town of Portimão.
Tourist and sports facilities available. |
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Olhos de Àgua - Olhos de Àgua
Lying below red rocky cliffs, pine trees and alongside a former fishing
village, east of Albufeira lies the small sandy bay of Olhos de Agua. Gently
sloping sand. Restaurants and other facilities lie nearby. |
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Praia Da Falésia - Vilamoura
The beach takes its name from the fascinating gouged red cliffs that form a
backdrop to the endless stretch of sand fringed by the green pines. The 6km
sandy beach is to be found west of Vilamoura before reaching Olhos de
Água.There are several restaurants, a playground for children and a variety
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Beaches Central Algarve - Vilamoura
Vilamoura is the name given to an area rather than to any actual
town. It is outstanding in that it is one of the largest single tourist
complex in Europe and covers some 2.000 hectares of land. The land is
variable in its vegetation, some parts covered in pine forests whilst
others open recovered marshland. Vilamoura is a special place, a unique
leisure and recreation resort community where the pace of life is so
easy it feels like summer all year round.
Designed from the start to be self-sufficient, Vilamoura is ideally
located, features a wide choice of prime accommodation, offers the
commercial structure for day-to-day needs and is bursting with sporting
and leisure facilities for the whole family. It is a place for rest and
relaxation but also for pursuing active pastimes and sports; a friendly
and safe residential haven, but also a vibrant and exciting night-life
centre. It is a luxury hotel, a private villa or a serviced apartment
for the visitor, but also a home to the resident and seasonal
population. It is Portuguese, but also truly cosmopolitan. Away from the
hectic pace and the stress of the modern world, all who visit are revitalised by the lifestyle, the convenience and the hospitality of
this truly special place.
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Beaches Falésia is ideal for a day on the beach with its
unusual red colored cliffs as a backdrop. You can get down to the beach
at a number of points. Also close at hand is Olhos de Água, surrounded
on three sides by pine-clad cliffs.
The town has its own beach - Vilamoura beach.
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Beaches Central Algarve - Loulé
Loulé, the racy,
cosmopolitan lifestyle of the world's leading tourist centres. A long
ribbon of fine, golden sand tucked between the blue of the sea and the
bold ochre of the cliffs. The splendour of tiles in a chapel that is
itself a work of art.
Thanks to its golden sands and sunny climate
the whole of the coast has become a major centre for beach holidays
and includes some of the best tourist facilities in the Algarve.
Vilamoura - Vilamoura's attractive beach is complemented
by a tourist development that ranks with the biggest and most
prestigious in Europe.
Quarteira -
Once a simple fishing village, Quarteira has become a cosmopolitan
tourist centre. Its past identity can be glimpsed in a 17th century
church and a few houses decorated with colored borders.
Vale de Lobo -
A beach that owes its unique beauty to its ochre and ruby cliffs. It
is surrounded by a high quality tourist complex.
Garrão - Long
beach edged with brightly coloured cliffs. Facilities for tourists.
Quinta do Lago
- This is a long beach with pedestrian access by way of a bridge
over the Ria Formosa. It is the site of a top-level international
holiday complex. |
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Beaches Central Algarve - Faro
History The Ria Formosa lagoon attracted human occupants from
the Palaeolithic age until the end of pre-history. During that time a
settlement grew up - Ossonoba - which was an important town during the
period of Roman occupation and, according to historians, the forerunner
of present-day Faro. From the 3rd century onwards and during the Visigothic period it was the site of an Episcopal see. With the advent
of Moorish rule in the 8th century Ossonoba retained its status as the
most important town in the southwest corner of the Iberian Peninsula. In
the 9th century it became the capital of a short-lived princedom and was
fortified with a ring of defensive walls. At this time the name Santa
Maria began to be used instead of Ossonoba. Later on the town was known
as Harune, whence its current name, Faro. After a traumatic period
attributable to the political and military fragility of the town's
Moorish rulers, in 1249 Faro became part of Portuguese territory. thus
completing the Christian re-conquest of what is now Portugal. In the
centuries that followed Faro became a prosperous place, thanks to its
geographical position, its safe harbor and growing trade - in salt and
agricultural products from the interior of the Algarve - increased by
the voyages of exploration known as the Discoveries. At this time the
town had a large and active Jewish population: the first Portuguese book
was printed locally on the Jewish community's initiative at the end of
the 15th century. Recognizing the town's growth, in 1499 King Manuel set
in motion major changes to the urban. fabric, with the construction of
new facilities - a hospital, the Espirito Santo (Holy Spirit) church
(later rebuilt and run by the "Misericordia" (charity and welfare
institution), a customs house, a slaughterhouse and so on, outside the
city walls and along the coast. In 1540 Faro was elevated to the status
of a city and in 1577 it became the site of the Episcopal see of the
Bishop of the Algarve, who had previously had his throne in Silves. In
1596 it suffered a severe mauling at the hands of raiding soldiers led
by the Earl of Essex, Essex's men sacked the city, then set it alight,
damaging its fortifications and its churches. The 17th and 18th
centuries were a period of expansion for Faro. A new series of
battlements was built during the Wars of Restoration (1640-1668),
enclosing the urban area and tracts of arable land in a huge semi-circle
facing the Ria. The city remained within these confines until the end of
the 19th century. After years of steady but unspectacular growth, its
expansion has accelerated significantly in the last few decades.
Its elevation to the status of a city, in 1540, and the transfer. in
1577, of the Episcopal see which had until that point been located in Silves, were important steps in Faro's history. Its steady, growth and
its importance in the regional context were such that it was chosen as
capital of the Algarve province at the time of the administrative
reorganization which took place in the 19th century. The last few
decades have made a decisive contribution to Faro's position, injecting
new economic life and confirming its vocation as a service centre for
the whole of the Algarve. The construction of an international airport
on the outskirts of the city in 1965 made Faro a hub for tourist traffic
across the region. Other items of infrastructure which have had a
positive impact on the economic, social and cultural life of the city
are the University of the Algarve and the Conservatorio Regional (Music
Regional College), both of which have their headquarters in Faro and
attract students from the rest of the region and from other parts of
Portugal, and the district hospital. With its rich artistic heritage and
many museums, hotels, restaurants and other facilities, not to mention
the many attractions offered by the surrounding area, from the long
beaches of Faro, Farol and Culatra Islands to the important Roman ruins
at Milreu, Faro is also a city, with a strong vocation for tourism. | | |
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Faro's beaches and the Ria Famosa, where flamingos can de seen taking to
the air, mark the border with the sea. On the flat terrain behind are the
houses, green vegetable plots that thrive on the fertile land and water
wheels that were once used to draw the water from the ground. In the
distance a semicircle of gentle hills, their slopes clad with fruit trees,
frames the landscape. |
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