Sagres - The coastal surf town, a MUST for your Algarve Portugal Adventure!
- Written by: Holiday Centre
Located on the extreme western tip of the Algarve Coast, Portugal, Sagres is home to some of the most spectacular rocky cliffs and glorious blue water. Primarily known for its pristine beaches and surfing culture, Sagres also has a fascinating history, with a number of fortresses dotted along its rugged coast dating back to the 15th century.
Got 24 hours? No worries. Here are the top spots to explore so you can make the most of your precious time in Sagres.
Visit
Driving into Sagres, you are greeted with the view of Fortaleza de Sagres, an intimidating fortress on the southern tip of the Sagres peninsula. It was cleverly built with one dominant main wall, utilising the dramatic 60m-high cliffs on the remaining sides. It was built to protect against raiders, though its prime location meant it held strategic importance in the 15th century for naval movements, trade and exploration between the Mediterranean, North Africa and Northern Europe.
Once inside, the barrenness of the surroundings highlights the historic importance of the fort, due to the seemingly empty landscape encapsulated by the wall and the cliffs. Fortaleza de Sagres is open to the public every day. Off-season hours are from 09:30 am to 17:30 pm, while peak-season hours are from 09:30 am to 20:00 pm. Entry is $3 for adults, with discounts available for pensioners and children. For more information, visit here.
Shop
Also known as the house of a thousand plates, Artesanato A Mó is the little pottery-shopping gem of Sagres. Driving past, there is no way you will miss this funky store, and the exterior is only the beginning of the eclectic, colourful mayhem of Artesanato A Mó.
Inside, you will find aisles of beautiful plates, bowls, mugs and assorted accessories. Prices range from about 3 to 15 euros for most pottery goods. This store is sure to have a little souvenir for everyone. Not in the market for pottery? It should not matter—this store is a feast for the eyes and definitely still worth checking out. Plus, it makes for a cute Instagram picture with its groovy exterior design!
Explore
Be sure to make your way out to the Lighthouse of Cabo de São Vicente. The lighthouse has sat on top of the nearly 75-metre cliffs of the Cape of St. Vincent since 1520. Known as the most south-western tip of Portugal and mainland Europe, this headland offers well over 180-degree views of the great Atlantic Ocean and its incredible surrounding landscape.
When you visit, be sure to remember the naval battles that occurred here centuries ago. Use your imagination to bring the battles to life from the cliff tops, or simply enjoy the views. Regardless, expect a memorable experience. Visitors can expect to spend between 20 minutes and two hours here, depending on how much exploring is done in the surrounding landscape. Take extra care when approaching the cliffs, as they are not always entirely stable.
Relax
Looking to chill out after a busy day of touring? Praia de Mareta is a stunning beach located in the central hub of Sagres. Surrounded by beautiful cliffs, with white sand and clear water, this beach is an excellent way to cool down from the heat of the Portuguese summer. It is also a great option on a windy day, as the cliffs offer protection from the elements that characterise Sagres. There is plenty of parking nearby, including for campervans, and easy access suitable for all ages.
Feeling peckish? Visit Telheiro Do Infante, located on Praia de Mareta beach, for a beverage and a traditional Portuguese meal.
Getting to Sagres
Depending on what sort of trip you are interested in, the best transport options to Sagres are:
- Hiring a car
- Catching a tour bus
- Hiring a campervan
