Tourist Attractions & Monuments Algarve

Wedged between two large black cliffs, this superb beach extends for at least 300 m, like a creek whose size would have been indefinitely extended. It is nevertheless narrow, blocked between the waves that lick it and a large cliff, closed by a large stone needle. It is one of the local people's favourite places to come and sunbathe. Exceptional spot reserved for very good surfers. On the heights, the ruins of the Arrifana fort offer a breathtaking and unforgettable view. A magical beach.

This is the cave you will see on all postcards in the Algarve, the most famous and impressive of all! Sculpted by waves, this huge cavity is only accessible by sea. Its beauty is such that there is no shortage of boats to take you there, from Benagil, Carvoeiro, Ferragudo and even Portimão! You will probably be approached to be offered an expedition to her. A minor drawback: many people obviously go there....

The Seven Suspended Valleys trail connects the beaches of Praia de Vale Centianes and Praia des Marinha by following the coast for 5.4 km. The landscape varies from pine forests, golden beaches and steep cliffs. Approach the abysses dug by erosion to hear the deafening roar of the sea and feel like you are in the bowels of the earth. Be careful, the path has few shaded areas, bring a cap and water. Possibility to eat at the start or on the beach of Benagil. Plan the day or a return by bus.

It would be a great omission not to visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park during a stay in the Algarve, and almost impossible, it must be said.... It has all the qualities for beautiful walks: pristine and sublime beaches, picturesque islands on which many fishermen have been settled for years, a unique ecosystem, a unique flora and population of atypical birds (observable especially in spring and autumn, during migration periods). Researchers from all over the world are interested in this area, studying the variation of currents and channels. Here, the dunes are not necessarily formed by the wind as is the case elsewhere....

It is in fact a large marsh that extends from Vale de Lobo to Tavira, covering the coasts of Quinta do Lago, Faro, Olhão, Fuzeta and Santa Luzia, among others. Recognized as a natural park since 1987, Ria Formosa extends over some 60 kilometres and covers just over 18,000 hectares. Dunes protect the coast and inland marshes from the roughness of the Atlantic Ocean, which, during severe storms, does not hesitate to wipe out some sandbanks with houses, as was the case in winter 2009-2010. The lagoon is much wider at Faro than at Tavira. The authorities recognize five islands: Barreta, Culatra, Armona, Tavira Island and Cabanas Island for those who want to feel alone in the world.

He alone deserves to be seen all over Europe. This park stretches over a little over 100 km, from Porto Covo in the Alentejo to Burgau, east of Sagres in the Algarve, at the very end of Europe. How can you remain insensitive to the character of its steep and severe cliffs, to its palette of colours as numerous as there are minutes of sunshine in a day, to the calm of its beaches? The white stork makes its nest here.

This huge beach is famous for its beauty and its warm and calm waters in summer. From there, you can see a magnificent view of the surrounding landscape, the island of Tavira, the bay of Monte Gordo, the church and the fortress of Cacela Velha. At low tide you can reach it on foot, but at high tide you will have to swim or ask the local fishermen who offer a boat ride to Praia da Fabrica, which is just as charming. Praia de Cacela Velha is frequented by naturist enthusiasts, among others, as well as by the LGBT community.

Its strategic position made it possible to protect the estuary. It was built around a watchtower erected during the reign of João II (1481-1495). Ferragudo didn't even exist yet. It was only later (mid-16th century) that the first defensive walls appeared. The final construction of the rampart dates back to 1643. After the earthquake of 1755, he went through very difficult times. Poorly maintained, it lost some of its prestige until the beginning of the 20th century, when the poet Coelho Carvalho undertook work to turn it into a residence.

This is one of the most beautiful beaches on the coast, if not the most beautiful, a superb site protected by black cliffs that are among the highest in the area. The path leading to the beach is worth the detour alone because it runs along a stream that crosses the valley before flowing into the ocean. Wide, the beach is covered with pebbles on which the vegetation has taken the time to cling. Some areas have become the playground of surfers. Before you go, check if it is safe to swim.

From this Promotorium Sacrum where, according to the Romans, the setting sun made the waters of the ocean bubble, there remains only one red lighthouse that watches over the coast from the top of its cliff (80 m). Hot dog and souvenir stands are everywhere. Cabo São Vicente is a mental place, a way of being at the end of the world or, at least, at the end of the known world. In addition to the lighthouse museum, it is always interesting to observe local fishermen holding their fishing rods above 80 m of empty space. The place is simply wonderful.

From the church overlooking the town, you will find a small pathway built on a wooden footbridge that will lead you to the caves of Algar Seco. Here the rock seems to have turned into clay to form caves and secret passages in the cliff. Two staircases allow you to go down to continue your exploration and listen to the waves crashing against the edge. Feel free to continue outside the official steps to discover other caves. You will find a small snack bar and toilets on the spot.