Ferragudo: One of the most beautiful villages in the Algarve
Ferragudo holiday tips (Portugal)
Ferragudo is a picturesque fishing village in the Algarve, located at the mouth of the Rio Arade opposite the larger Portimao It is less known and therefore less touristy than some of the other places in the Algarve, which adds to the charm and authenticity of this village.
Ferragudo may be small, but it is rich in traditional Portuguese culture. For example, you will find those typical Portuguese cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses. The village square, Praça Rainha Dona Leonor , has several cozy cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes, including fresh seafood unloaded that morning from the fishing boats moored along the quay.
There are also some beautiful beaches around Ferragudo, such as Praia Grande , Praia dos Caneiros and Praia da Angrinha . These beaches are surrounded by colourful cliffs and are ideal for a day of relaxing or taking a stroll along.
On this page you will find my tips for a visit or holiday to Ferragudo. From sights to activities and hotel tips. Welcome to Ferragudo!
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The Brief History of Ferragudo
Ferragudo has a rich and interesting history that dates back to prehistoric times thanks to the traces of Roman and Moorish settlements that have been found here. For centuries, Ferragudo was a fishing village, as evidenced by the traditional fishermen’s houses and the old harbour. The name Ferragudo is said to derive from “ferro” (iron) and “agudo” (sharp), referring to the iron spikes that were placed in the Arade River to defend the area from invasions by enemy ships.
In the 15th and 16th centuries, during the Portuguese Age of Discoveries, the Algarve region, including Ferragudo, played an important role. The nearby city of Portimão was an important shipbuilding centre and the harbour at Ferragudo was probably a busy place, filled with ships ready for exploration or trade. The São João de Arade fort, built in the 17th century, is evidence of the strategic importance of Ferragudo during this time, as it was built to defend the coastline from pirate attacks.
In more recent history, Ferragudo has remained primarily a fishing village, although tourism has become increasingly important. Today, the town is a popular destination for visitors who want to enjoy the charm of a traditional Portuguese fishing village. Despite the increase in tourism, Ferragudo has managed to retain its authentic character and charm.
Ferragudo top 6 sights
Although Ferragudo is not as big as neighboring Portimão, you can still enjoy yourself here for half a day in the old center, along the water and at the surrounding beaches. The village is easy to explore on foot, but if you also want to visit the lighthouse further away, it is advisable to come by car . Further down the page you can read where you can best park (for free).
These are the top 6 sights in Ferragudo that I recommend visiting:
1. The old center of Ferragudo
Most of the streets in the centre of Ferragudo are car-free. That’s a good thing, because some are so narrow that it would detract from the atmosphere (and your car). Start your walk at Leonor de Ferragudo square opposite the park and zigzag through the streets behind it to find and possibly capture traditional Portuguese culture.
From brightly colored houses to overhanging bougainvillea and tile art, you’ll find it in the maze of streets. Don’t forget to check out some menus along the way, so that you know where to get a Portuguese (or international) meal at lunchtime.
Although the terraces on the large square look inviting, a number of excellent restaurants are hidden further on in the village. Read my restaurant recommendations further on!
2. Castelo de São João do Arade
The Castelo de São João do Arade , also known as ‘Arade Castle’, is a medieval fortification at the mouth of the river. Originally it was only a watchtower, but around 1520 a defensive wall was built around it as additional reinforcement.
The fort became a transit point for boats leaving the river, making it responsible for the river traffic that Silves in and out. In the 20th century, the fortress was bought by poet Coelho Carvalho, who transformed it into a summer residence after extensive renovations.
Although now privately owned and therefore unfortunately not open to visitors, the historical significance of the Fort of São João do Arade remains an important reminder of the rich past of Ferragudo and Silves.
3. Praia da Angrinha
Praia da Angrinha is located next to the castle and is very popular with Portuguese families (and their dogs). Few tourists come here, which makes it a relatively quiet beach. There are no catering facilities, so bring your own food and drinks if you come here to top up your tan in the sun.
Directly behind the beach is a large parking lot, which is also an ideal base from which to explore Ferragudo. Thanks to the further shore, you have little trouble with currents and waves here, which makes it feel safer to swim with children.
4. Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
Most of the streets in the centre of Ferragudo are car-free. That’s a good thing, because some are so narrow that it would detract from the atmosphere (and your car). Start your walk at Leonor de Ferragudo square opposite the park and zigzag through the streets behind it to find and possibly capture traditional Portuguese culture.
From brightly colored houses to overhanging bougainvillea and tile art, you’ll find it in the maze of streets. Don’t forget to check out some menus along the way, so that you know where to get a Portuguese (or international) meal at lunchtime.
Although the terraces on the large square look inviting, a number of excellent restaurants are hidden further on in the village. Read my restaurant recommendations further on!
5. Shopping for handmade souvenirs
For curiosities and souvenirs, in the centre of Ferragudo you can go to Deja-vu Art Shop . Here you will find many nice handmade products such as bags and wallets made of cork, pottery and decorations made of glass and driftwood
6. Farol da Ponta do Altar
If you’ve had your fill of the centre of Ferragudo, it’s worth continuing south to the Farol da Ponta do Altar . This lighthouse is perched on a cliff, and although you can’t enter the lighthouse, you do have a lovely view of Portimão on one side and Praia do Torrado on the other.
Ferragudo top 6 activities
Most of the activities around Ferragudo are organised from the opposite city of Portimão. From the quay you can take the taxi ferry to the other side, from where most boat trips depart.
These are the top 6 activities in and around Ferragudo:
1. Dolphin spotting & coastline safari
⭐ View availability (click to expand)
A fun activity for all ages is to take a boat trip along the Algarve coast while you scan the waters for wild dolphins ! In this part of Portugal, the chances of seeing them are very high, so boat trips leave daily to greet these cheerful mammals.
The experienced guide will tell you all about dolphin behavior, so you will learn just that little bit more than on comparable tours.
You will also visit the famous Benagil cave, which you will see up close, as well as the beautiful surrounding beaches and rock formations.
2. Boat trip to Benagil cave
⭐ View availability (click to expand)
Climb aboard this cool speedboat and feel the sea breeze in your hair as you cruise along the beautiful Algarve coast on your way to the famous Benagil Cave . This iconic dome-shaped cave has a circular hole in the ceiling through which the sun rays shine, magically illuminating the cave. During this 2-hour tour you will visit several caves and learn all about the natural history of Lagos, Portimão and the surrounding area. Some cruises combine a visit to the Benagil Cave with a search for wild dolphins. If you like that too, choose a combo tour!
3. Visit a cannery
Have you always wanted to know how a cannery works? Or have you become curious after reading the previous sentence? At the Conserveira do Arade you can take a tour of a cannery that is still in use!
The sardine industry was & is very big in the Algarve, making it not only a fun but also a cultural experience. For ten euros per person you get a guided tour of one hour and you will learn all about the history of the sardine industry in the Algarve and the preservation process.
4. Wine tasting and tour near Ferragudo
⭐ View availability (click to expand)
A fun activity for all ages is to take a boat trip along the Algarve coast while you scan the waters for wild dolphins ! In this part of Portugal, the chances of seeing them are very high, so boat trips leave daily to greet these cheerful mammals.
The experienced guide will tell you all about dolphin behavior, so you will learn just that little bit more than on comparable tours.
You will also visit the famous Benagil cave, which you will see up close, as well as the beautiful surrounding beaches and rock formations.
5. Slide & Splash waterpark
⭐ View availability (click to expand)
Just a short ten minute drive from Ferragudo is the huge Slide & Splash water park . Countless slides, swimming pools and sunbathing areas guarantee a full day of water fun.
Slide & Splash is hugely popular with children, but there is also plenty of adrenaline to be found for adults. Since this water park is completely outdoors, it closes in the winter season. If no tickets are available above under ‘View Availability’, the park is still closed.
6. Sailing on the Arade River by solar boat
⭐ View availability (click to expand)
Sail to Silves in style with this eco-friendly solar boat . It runs 100% on solar energy and departs from the port of Portimão via the Arade River to Silves.
Along the way, the skipper will tell you about the history of the river and the role it played in the Algarve’s past. He will also help you search for birds and other fauna that live in or next to the river. This trip lasts 4.5 hours, of which you have one and a half hours of free time in Silves to have lunch or take a walk. After that, the boat sails back to Portimão.
Ferragudo Accommodation tips
In Ferragudo there are many nice small hotels and B&Bs where you can stay in a building full of traditional architecture. If you are curious about the charm of a Portuguese house, then a night’s sleep in Ferragudo is a nice experience. Moreover, every restaurant is within walking distance and you can experience a beautiful sunset in the evening before diving under the covers. In addition, there are also modern accommodations with all the comforts that make your stay unforgettable. What do you go for?
These are my accommodation tips for Ferragudo:
1. Alma da Vida Ferragudo
This nice small guesthouse consists of a number of cozy studios and apartments in the center of Ferragudo. If you feel like cooking yourself, that is also possible since all rooms have a small kitchen.
2. One2Seven
From the balconies of the rooms in this small-scale hotel you have a beautiful view over Portimão or Ferragudo. It is a bit on the expensive side, but then you have a carefree stay in this beautiful hotel that has a swimming pool, restaurant and fitness room. Some apartments have their own kitchen and/or a barbecue!
3. Vitor’s Village
For a longer stay in Ferragudo, Vitor’s Village is an absolute must. This beautiful resort has everything you need for a successful holiday: a trendy restaurant with Portuguese delicacies, a bar, swimming pools, evening entertainment and a small shop. Rooms vary from two-person apartments to suites for 6 people.
Affordable car rental in the Algarve
The best way to discover all the beauty in the Algarve is with a rental car. By renting a car for a few days you can much more easily reach the sights and activities that are not always accessible by public transport.
By renting a car from Luzcar, you are helping a local family business run by Portuguese entrepreneurs. This way you support the local economy and you also get top service, which is often a stark contrast to the large corporations. Luzcar is based in Lagos, but they also offer cars at the airport in Faro. This way you can pick up the car immediately upon arrival and return it at the airport upon departure.
Luzcar’s reputation speaks for itself. Almost 5 out of 5 on Google Maps.
Restaurant tips for Ferragudo
Even though it is a small village, you can find some nice restaurants and cafes in Ferragudo where you can get an excellent meal. These are my restaurant tips for Ferragudo:
- End of the world. An atmospherically decorated restaurant where you will be amazed by the decoration hanging on the walls (and ceiling). The steak with pepper sauce is excellent here, but first take a platter with various Portuguese appetizers.appetizers.
- Delizia. This nice little Italian restaurant serves richly topped pizzas, but ‘just’ a spaghetti with garlic and olive oil is also delicious here.
- Gelataria Di Vera. Cool down on a hot day, you do at this ice cream shop. If you come on a cool day, you can warm up with a freshly baked waffle!
- Brunch in Rio. It’s in the name. Start your day off right with an extensive brunch. Will you go for pancakes with fruit, or a healthy and colorful poké bowl?
Parking in Ferragudo
Parking in Ferragudo is free and is best done just outside the centre.
Free parking near the centre of Ferragudo:
- Parking behind Praia da Angrinha (150 meters walk to the center)
- Along the R. Infante Dom Henrique across the water (50 meters walk to the center)
- Behind the castle (250 meters walk to the center)
More of our local tips for your Portugal adventure
⭐ Check out our favourite sights in the Algarve on this page
⛵ Check out this overview of all activities you can do in the Algarve
🚗 This is the best car rental company in the Algarve
📌 Discover the top towns and cities to visit in the Algarve here
🏖 These are our favourite beaches in the Algarve
🛎 Get inspired with our local tips for accommodations in the Algarve
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