I fell in love with Portugal last year when I visited Lisbon for the first time. So it was only to be expected that I would leave a piece of my heart in the Algarve too. Whilst the trip itself was not the most ideal and to describe it as problematic is an understatement to say the least, the location was second to none. I wanna go back so bad. Maybe (definitely!) with different company or maybe even by myself. I had a taste and now I want more. Here’s my mini travel guide for exploring the beauty of the other Lagos of my heart – Lagos in the Algarve.
PONTA DE PIEDADE
Do a boat tour to the Ponta de Piedade. It’s a beautiful mix of caves, sea grottos and animal shaped limestone pillars. It’s also absolutely stunning, the water is so blue it is unreal. Absolutely recommend this.
OLD TOWN OF LAGOS
Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town. It’s cute, it’s quaint. What’s not to love?
SAGRES
Once considered the end of the world and then the last most southern point in Europe before America (it’s neither!), it’s magical if you can make it for a sunrise or a sunset. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see some dolphins go by like we did. Heart eyes! Bring something warm for the early morning/evening chill.
If you all want is to be a beach bum, go be a fabulous one at this awesome beach club. If there are no spots at the beach, there’s also a pool side a few steps away and get your groove on to the DJ there.
EAT |
- D. Henrique – for steaks cooked to perfection! If you’re a carnivore, you must give this place a whirl!
- Gomba – for pasteis de nata. You probably know my obsession with pasteis de nata from my Lisbon experience and I was back on the wagon in Lagos. Admittedly nothing compares to the Lisbon pasteis but the ones from Gomba are nice too.
- Camilo is a superbly located restaurant with a spectacular view out over the water. The food is a little pricey for what it was but still quite yummy.
SLEEP |
I stayed at the Carvi Beach Hotel. Location wise, it’s hard to beat this hotel. It’s right beside one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, Praia Dona Ana, and the view is just magical. It’s also a great spot to head off for a walk/hike along the cliff edges
GETTING AROUND |
I would strongly recommend hiring a car. I imagine that there is public transport, though I didn’t really see any buses or trains and just to make life easier for yourself, get a car.
