Barlavento Circuit - Windward Algarve

108 km (68 miles)

(Actually, this 'Barlavento circuit' hardly qualifies. It is in the western, windward Algarve, but it's nary a 'circuit', since it takes you along the main coast road and back. However, I couldn't think what else to call it).   Let's kick things off at:

Portimão

While this port has some beautiful beaches, it is also famous for its local delicacy, grilled sardines. These can be enjoyed in one the riverside restaurants (always assuming that you like sardines, of course).

Alternatively, you could explore things inland of the water, where dilapidated narrow alleys and interesting buildings and churches will occupy your attention.

When we last visited, we enjoyed a stroll around an exhibition of modern art (which we found only a short distance away from the beach).   The artist's name was Martins, and he favoured very colourful abstract themes, some rather reminiscent of Jackson Pollock (affectionately known as 'Jack the Dripper').

Lagos

Formerly Algarve's capital, this port was the launch-point for many of the 16th and 17th century New World exploratory voyages. (Think about that -- these mild-mannered Algarveans among whom we tourists wander used to sail forth to explore the unknown world!)

Enjoy a tour of the historic remains, such as the Castle and (for the murkier side of Portuguese - and European - history) the old market that once traded in African slaves. You may also like the lovely church of São António and the local artefacts on display in the Regional Museum.

Vila do Bispo

I just love the south-west coast's other-worldly beauty, and I'm obviously not alone, since the landscape here has been awarded 'protected' status. The name comes from the bishop who made his home here way back in history. Visit the local church and nearby (2 km) the charming chapel of Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe.

Cabo de São Vicente

Out on the western fringe of the Algarve, this area offers incredible vistas. Next time we visit, Nev plans to sketch or paint the poignant ruins of the 16th century convent.

Sagres

Soak in the atmosphere at the point and you'll know why this promontory is so embedded in the Portuguese national psyche. It was here that Infante D. Henrique (better known elsewhere as Henry the Navigator), the founder of Portugal's maritime power, passed the last 4 decades of his life. I always find the views from the fort over the powerful sea absolutely heart-stopping.

Finally, once you've soaked up enough adventure and discovery for one day, it's time to hit the road, this time all the way back along the coast to Portimão!

Read here about more circuits that allow you to explore the Algarve.

And, if you can't indulge in any Algarve sightseeing of your own just yet, you could always...

...subscribe to my free monthly newsletter, Algarve Beach Life News, by clicking on the link below ("For Lovers of Algarve Beach Life") or on the button at top left ("Subscribe to ABLN") -- I'll keep you updated, every month, about the new information I have added about how and where to explore the Algarve!

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