Hidden Gems To Seek Out In Lagos

11th July 2019 | Adventure Travel, Portugal

by Lauren Whyld

As regular visitors to Portugal’s many wondrous locations (and appreciators of its infinite days of sunshine), it’s safe to say we can not recommend Lagos in West Algarve enough!

Lagos is a location that has so much to offer; with its secluded beaches, luscious greenery and enviable cleanliness. Not to mention, its tantalising cuisine, welcoming residents and various locations for surfing and paddleboarding.

The famous Praia do Comilo (a beach prettier than a postcard and extremely insta worthy) speaks for itself and would be reason enough to visit. If you’re looking more for adventure, Lagos offers water lovers a natural playground with the Grottos. While Meia Praia (Lagos’s biggest golden coastline) offers a more lively experience with bustling independent beach bars (Cheers!).

As well as being an extremely noteworthy place in itself, Lagos has the added bonus of being surrounded by loads of desirable destinations and adventurous excursions.

Here Are Our Top Tips Of Things To Do From Lagos:

Visit Aljezur

(30 minute drive from Lagos)

This traditional Portuguese town is located right in the middle of a cluster of beaches. It’s the ideal destination for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic rural side of Portugal without straying too far from the holiday vibe of the coastline.

Sunset over Arrifina Small town of Aljezur
Our recommendation: Arrifana is our personal favourite beach, with its dramatic cliffs and alternative eateries. Odeceixe offers beauty with slightly fewer tourists. Both beaches are perfect for surfing. The good reef break, consistent swell and powerful waves of Kangaroo Point (just a short paddle out from Arrifana) attracts experienced surfers. While the spacious and calmer beach breaks on Odeceixe makes it ideal for beginners and perfect for an adventurous Algarve stag do.

Explore the Benagil Caves

(40 minute drive from Lagos)

Rather touristy but not to be missed! This impressive and seriously popular cave is well worth a visit. You can experience them on a coastal hike from above, looking down through a perfect circle into the majestic cave. Or from the inside, either on a boat tour, kayak or even better, a paddleboard!

The beautiful Benagil Caves Sunlight through the Benagil Caves

Our recommendation: Avoid going at the height of summer and get there early to avoid the crowds. In winter you might just have this unique cave all to yourself!

Hike The Rota Vicentina

(40 minute drive from Lagos)

This breathtaking hiking trail spans a whopping 450KM along the coastline of South West Portugal and is one of the most desirable coastal hiking spots in Southern Europe.

Plants on the Rota Vicentina View over Monte Clerigo beach

Our recommendation: A scenic 12-14km hike: pick up the trail from Monte Clérigo near Aljezur and hike towards Arrifana. Enjoy spectacular remote beaches and tropical vegetation with giant Aloe Vera!

Visit Monchique

(45 minutes inland from Lagos)

This idyllic town is another great location to lap up local culture and ideal for mountain hiking. Foia (located a mere 10 minute drive from Monchique) is the highest point in Algarve with impressive views of the entire surrounding area.

Archway in Monchique Church wall in Monchique

Our recommendation: Park in Monchique and wander up the hill to discover a hidden, overgrown, but truly stunning church ruin (Convento de Nossa Senhora do Desterro) with spectacular views over the town.

Plus…

The locally made honey brandy in Monchique is certainty not to be missed!

 

And Finally, Experience Sagres

(35 minute drive from Lagos)

Located overlooking some of Algarve’s most impressive landscapes, Sagres is the most south-western point in Europe and famous for its end-of-the-world feel! Its dramatic cliff-edges and transcendent sunsets add to this scenic surf spot.

Stunning views of Sagres Sagres lighthouse

Our recommendation: Visit the Lighthouse of Cabo de São Vicente located on the coastal peninsular for breathtaking views. And check out Praia do Beliche beach.

Fancy a visit?

We’re looking forward to you falling in love with the beauty of West Algarve as much as we have!