WESTERN ALGARVE

Poets and writers across the centuries have written about the Western Algarve, drawn by the startling beauty of the rocky cliffs and coves. Early tourism in the region began predominantly in the west in places such as Praia da Rocha. The west has breathtaking scenery and its farthermost corner, the Cape, was once called “the end of the world.” When driving towards the dramatic Cabo de São Vincente there is truly a sense of reaching the very end of something as the land flattens and the wind picks up.

Sagres, from where some of the Discoveries set sail, is now a relaxed surfers’ town. In contrast the bustling city of Portimão is the west’s commercial hub whilst lovely Lagos has lured visitors for decades. Lagos has a unique character mixing old and new with its ancient fortress, pretty squares and backstreets, modern marina and sophisticated eateries. Inland are the Monchique mountains where winding roads climb past peaceful hamlets. This part of the region has a cooler, more windy climate due to its proximity to the open Atlantic, where bigger waves make for great surfing.

The coast offers a good selection of amenities such as excellent private hospitals, the Nobel International School, shopping centres, golf courses, water parks and stunning beaches. The interior provides a rural retreat.