Description
This road trip is an exciting way of discovering the surprises of the West Algarve! A self-drive itinerary designed by locals, to those special spots that leave long-lasting memories of a happy holiday.
From the spectacular West Algarve’s coast, with dramatic cliffs pounded by the Atlantic waves and secluded beaches, to the bucolic interior, and the historic cities, you’ll be up for a real treat!
The tour is based in Lagos, a historical and cosmopolitan city.
Facing a large bay and the Meia Praia Beach’s fine sands, Lagos was a point of departure for the Discoveries’ galleons, and also a hideaway for privateers like Sir Francis Drake.
A beautiful wall borders the waterfront, and the old town is filled with small boutiques, restaurants, and a wealth of heritage and culture sites.
A highlight for the unique scenery of Ponta da Piedade, a true postcard picture of your memorable holidays.
From here you’ll get to visit the Vicentina Coast, Sagres, and the cliffs of Cape S. Vicent, the most south-westerly point in Portugal and in Europe. The cliffs are a vertiginous 60 meters high, dropping down into the furious spray of the waves.
The beaches of Carrapateira and Odeceixe hide endless dunes, surrounded by tiny wildflowers, where the only sounds come from the waves, the seagulls, and the salty winds singing.
Visit towns like Monchique, nestled in the folds of the hills. Nearby is the highest peak of the Algarve, Fóia, from where you have a view up to Alentejo.
Silves, the former Moorish capital of the Algarve, rises on a hill around the red-stone walls of the well-preserved castle. It dominates the plains of orange groves and the banks of the River Arade.
In Portimão and the adjoining Praia da Rocha, you’ll get one of the most scenic and famous beach resorts in the Algarve.
To complete your experience, and to show you the contrasts of this region, you have itineraries to places where the time goes slowly and you almost forget that you’re in the bustling Algarve.
Driving eastwards, through inland roads, you’ll experience São Bartolomeu de Messines and Querença. On your way to the river Guadiana, on the border with Spain, you’ll find hidden gems like Martim Longo, Alcoutim, and Vila Real de Sto António.
And make sure you don’t miss the exquisite regional dishes, from the sea and from the land, accompanied by excellent Portuguese wines.
Let us show you the best parts of the West Algarve, and take home with you a different side of this welcoming region!
