Rota Vicentina
Rota Vicentina is a network of walking trails that stretches over 450 km. It runs through the stunning Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina Natural Park. This area is one of the most beautiful parts of Portugal. The trails offer a mix of coastal and inland routes. You can explore dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming villages.
Tips for Visiting:
- You will need a car to visit this area.
- Some roads are gravel and may not be in the best condition.
- Check if your rental car insurance covers gravel roads.
- Stick to paved roads for amazing views if you prefer.
Rota Vicentina is less crowded but offers breathtaking scenery. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.
Sagres
Sagres is a quaint town just a few kilometers from Cape Saint Vincent. It has narrow streets and a tranquil, secluded lifestyle. Here, time seems to stand still, offering a unique atmosphere far removed from tourist crowds. Amidst the charming yet weathered facades and traditional cafes, you’ll uncover the essence of real Portugal and the authentic Algarve.
Sagres truly comes alive around its fishing port, pristine beaches, and historic fortress. These spots offer visitors a glimpse into its rich maritime history and coastal beauty. The Fortress of Sagres stands as the sole accessible building in this region, making it an unmissable landmark. It looms at the end of the road, commanding attention with its imposing presence.
These days, Sagres continues to look out to sea, often in search of great waves owing to the popular surf camps here. You might also spot leaping cetaceans on a dolphin-watching cruise. The village itself is smaller and quieter than towns in the central Algarve. If you want some action, you’ll find it happening at terrace bars and restaurants along the main drag of Rua Comandante Matoso.
Lagos
Lagos is the liveliest resort town in the western Algarve. It has great historical significance. Prince Henry the Navigator launched Portugal’s Age of Discovery from Lagos in the 15th century. His vision and the bravery of explorers helped place Portugal on the world map. Lagos is proud of its seafaring heritage.
Lagos is the most captivating city in the region. Its magnificent beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history make it an irresistible destination. The vibrant old town bustles with shops, restaurants, bars, and traffic-free terraces. Just minutes away from the city center, you’ll find some of Portugal’s most stunning beaches, such as Dona Ana and Ponta da Piedade.
Lagos is best for dining and nightlife. There’s plenty to see around town, starting with its historic architecture – baroque churches, a 17th-century fortress, and the old town walls. The nearby beaches draw even more admirers, particularly Praia de Dona Ana, one of the Algarve’s prettiest beaches.
Lagos has maintained its authenticity. When you visit, take some time to lose yourself in the alleys of its historic center and enjoy the atmosphere. Visit the authentic Mercado Municipal (city market).
Lagos is a small town, so you can see the main attractions in a couple of hours. Be sure to visit the most impressive coastal areas nearby. The musts include Ponta da Piedade and the scenic beaches of Lagos such as Praia do Camilo or Praia Dona Ana.
Alvor
Alvor is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in Algarve. It has a rich history tied to fishing. Today, tourism drives its economy. The town offers a mix of bustling cafes, a lively daily market, and charming cobbled streets. Don’t miss the Misericórdia Church and the town market. The Ria de Alvor river mouth is a great spot for birdwatching. Alvor Beach is perfect for relaxing or hiking on the biggest walkway in Algarve. For a unique experience, consider a cave tour near Alvor.
Portimão
Portimão, nestled in the western Algarve, is a coastal town with a rich history in canning and sardine fishing. Today, tourism has taken over, but the town has kept its charm. The Arade River flows through its heart, adding to its beauty. In the evenings, a stroll along the palm-lined Ribeirinha promenade is a must.
Portimão is the region’s second-largest city and enjoys a prime location overlooking the River Arade. The city boasts an award-winning museum and a noted theater complex, making it a lively cultural hub. It’s also a popular stop for luxury cruise ships heading to the Mediterranean.
Portimão is one of the most important cities in Algarve, attracting many visitors with its beautiful beaches and other points of interest. The town has successfully reinvented itself as a tourist destination, offering an urban setting close to beach resorts. The Portimão docks immerse you in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming port. A moored pirate ship adds a touch of whimsy, evoking dreams of high-sea adventures. Across the Arade River lies Ferragudo, a quaint traditional Portuguese village accessible by boat, offering another dimension to your Algarve experience.
Ferragudo
Ferragudo is a charming small town facing Portimão, but it belongs to the municipality of Lagoa. This town has a unique charm, and you can stroll along the riverside area and enjoy the amazing beaches. From here, you can admire the small but beautiful São João de Arade Castle, built at the end of the 15th century. Apart from the castle and the beautiful beaches, you can lose yourself in the typical streets that will surely amaze you. The alleys of Ferragudo will take you to the town church, offering a fantastic view of the village. Walk on to Praia Grande and relax on the beach in the shadow of the castle. Park your car at the entrance of the village and enjoy the view of the village and its small sheltered port.
Serra de Monchique
Serra de Monchique offers a refreshing change from the Algarve’s beach scene. This mountain range adds a dramatic view to the western countryside. The slopes are covered with chestnut and eucalyptus trees, creating a green home for many animals.
To see the highest peak in Algarve, visit Fóia. From there, you can enjoy an amazing view over most of the Algarve region. The temperatures here can be up to 10 degrees cooler than the plains, making it a great spot to cool off on hot days.
Don’t miss the historic town of Monchique, just 8 km away. Walk through its typical streets and visit the ruins of the 17th-century Nossa Senhora do Desterro Convent. Also, make sure to visit Caldas de Monchique, a thermal village dating back to Roman times.
Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro is one of the most beautiful towns in the Algarve region. It is a postcard-perfect destination in southern Portugal. The town is known for its amazing beaches like Carvoeiro Beach and Vale Centeanes Beach. These beaches are perfect for families with kids because of the calm seas and lifeguards on duty. The village center is walkable and has many outdoor eateries that kids and adults will love.
Don’t miss the Algar de Benagil during your visit. This oceanic cave is only accessible by sea and is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal. You can take a boat tour to explore this stunning spot.
Another must-see is Algar Seco, which offers views over Carvoeiro Beach. This area is also important for bird conservation, with species like Cory’s Shearwaters often seen flying nearby.
Silves
Silves is a charming traditional town where you can experience the authentic side of the Algarve. Walk around its cobbled streets, have lunch at one of the local restaurants, and – if you have some time and depending on the season – you can also visit some orange orchards or vineyards nearby.
Silves is worth exploring at leisure. Downhill from the fortress is the Sé (cathedral), built between 1242 and 1577 on the site of Xelb’s Grand Mosque. Opposite is the 16th-century Igreja da Misericórdia, replete with a fine Manueline side door.
The town itself is delightful, especially the area along the riverfront, which is lined with a small market and some excellent restaurants. Cruise boats from Portimão tie up here near the old bridge.
Alte
Alte is a charming village where time seems to stand still. The narrow cobbled streets and traditional white buildings are picturesque. Colorful flowers and beautiful street art add to its charm. This little town is a hidden gem in the Algarve.
One unique feature of Alte is its natural springs. Take a refreshing dip at Fonte Grande de Alte for an unforgettable experience. Located in the center of Algarve, Alte is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Stroll along the streets and admire the typical houses before visiting the beautiful Nossa Senhora da Assunção Church. Built in the 13th century, the church has been renovated over the centuries and features a Manueline-style portal and stunning glazed-tile panels.