West Coast Algarve Tips

1. Fortaleza de Sagres

This impressive old fortress is situated on a peninsula and used to keep watch over the nearby villages. On the walls you can still find old cannons and in the courtyard are the remains of the military accommodation.

2. Faro do Cabo de São Vicente

Visit this beautiful lighthouse at the ‘end of the world’ around sunset for a romantic evening. Plus, you’ll find ‘the last bratwurst before America’ here.

3. Ruins above Praia do Castelejo

Situated about 100 meters above the ocean, you will find a slightly creepy ruin as well as a beautiful view over Praia do Castelejo and Praia da Águia. The road is unpaved and can be bad, so don’t hesitate to park on the side of the road 300 meters before the end point and walk the last part. It is worth it.

4. Miradouro da Cordoama

The last 200 meters are off-road, but you will arrive at a beautiful viewpoint above Praia do Cordoama and Praia do Castelejo. When the wind is coming from the sea, paragliders regularly fly here, taking off along the cliffs via the air currents.

5. Praia do Amado

In the summer this wide sandy beach is popular with surfers of all levels. On the hill by the parking lot is a ‘snack bar’ with a view over the beach. You can also take a nice walk here on the wooden boardwalk.

6. Pontal da Carrapateira

Drive to Praia do Amado and turn right past the parking lot to discover a beautiful stretch of coastline from your car. Stop at one of the many viewpoints and wooden walkways and look down from the high cliffs onto the water. Once past Praia do Bordeira you will end up back in Carrapateira.

7. Praia da Arrifana

One of my favorite beaches is Praia da Arrifana. Not only do you have a phenomenal view from the parking lot above, you can also surf here very well. Thanks to the cliffs on both sides, this beach is well sheltered from the wind. Disadvantage: as a non-resident you are not allowed to drive down, so a steep walk awaits you. 😉

8. Aljezur (village)

This village is a nice stop for coffee or lunch. Walk in the center over the bridge and along the water, or zig-zag up to the castle ruins. In the ‘new’ part in the east you can find specialty coffee at  KOYO  and wine at  Madame! Wine shop .

9. Odeceixe

It is like stepping back in time as you walk through the streets of this authentic Portuguese village. Stroll through the old town and along the river, then drive to Praia de Odeceixe for an afternoon of sun or surfing.

1. Horse riding through the dunes of Carrapateira

In Carrapateira you can go horse riding through the dunes of Praia do Bordeira. With a small group you go on an adventure with your own horse for an hour.

This horse riding tour on the west coast of the Algarve is suitable for experienced and novice riders.

2. Surf lessons in Carrapateira

Learn to surf on one of the most beautiful sandy beaches of the Algarve: Praia do Bordeira. At Carrapateira Extreme Tours you can follow a group lesson or a private lesson of one and a half hours.

The surf instructor will teach you how to paddle and then make a popup. The price includes all the equipment such as a surfboard and wetsuit.

3. Mountain bike tour to Pedralva

Discover the peaceful Algarve interior on this guided bike tour from Carrapateira.

On the way you drive over hills and valleys towards small villages and along the ocean. The guide, who lives nearby, can tell you all about the area and its history.

This tour lasts approximately 3 hours and is suitable for young and old (from about 12 years old).

1. Pontalaia Apartamentos

Cozy and affordable apartments within walking distance of the beach.

2. Casa Nook Sagres

Relax in one of these cozy apartments in rural Algarve.

3. Monte Da Vilarinha

Beautiful apartments surrounded by nature in a green valley.

4. Hortas do Rio

Cozy bungalow style rooms, close to the beach and Carrapateira village.

5. Praia do Canal Nature Retreat

A quietly situated eco-resort with excellent facilities.