Circuits · Algarve

Algarve Cliffs

Golden sea caves, cliff walks, Moorish Silves and the islands of the Ria Formosa.

5 days13 stopsLagos 2 nights · Tavira 2 nightsCar recommended
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Golden sea stacks and turquoise water at Ponta da Piedade, Lagos

Photo: Einaz80, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

DAY 1

Lagos

Night: Lagos
1

Ponta da Piedade

Arches and grottoes of golden rock. See them from above along the boardwalk and from below by boat or kayak.

1h30Free (boat or kayak: paid)All year
↓ ≈ 5 min by road · 3 km
2

Lagos Old Town

City walls, the Church of Santo António and streets that come alive at night.

1h30FreeAll year
↓ ≈ 25 min walk
3

Dona Ana Beach

A small beach between cliffs and rock stacks, with very clear water.

2hFreeSummer
DAY 2

Lagoa · Carvoeiro

Night: Lagos
4

Benagil Cave (Gruta de Benagil)

The cave with the opening in its roof. It can only be visited from the sea; landing on the inner beach is not allowed.

1hPaid boat or kayakSpring to autumn (calm sea)
↓ ≈ 25 min walk
5

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos)

A clifftop trail between Praia da Marinha and Vale Centeanes. Marinha is one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

2h30 (6 km)FreeAll year (avoid the midday heat)
↓ ≈ 5 min by road · 6 km
6

Algar Seco

Rock formations sculpted by the sea, with a wooden boardwalk.

45 minFreeAll year
DAY 3

Silves · Monchique

Night: Tavira
7

Silves

The former Moorish capital of the Algarve, with its red sandstone castle.

1h30Castle: paidAll year
↓ ≈ 30 min by road · 27 km
8

Fóia, Monchique Hills (Serra de Monchique)optional

The highest point in the Algarve, with views down to the coast. Try the medronho (strawberry-tree brandy).

1hFreeAll year
DAY 4

Tavira · Vila Real de Santo António

Night: Tavira
9

Tavira

The prettiest town in the Sotavento (eastern Algarve): a Roman bridge, churches and distinctive «scissor» roofs.

2hFreeAll year
↓ ≈ 5 min by road · 6 km
10

Barril Beach and the Anchor Cemetery

Reached by a little toy-like train across the lagoon. On the dune lie the anchors from the old tuna fishery.

2hFreeSummer
↓ ≈ 20 min by road · 17 km
11

Cacela Velhaoptional

A white village above the lagoon, with one of the most peaceful views in the Algarve.

45 minFreeAll year
DAY 5

Faro

Night: Return
12

Ria Formosa and Ilha Deserta (Desert Island)

A boat from Faro through the lagoon channels to an island with no houses or cars. Alternative: Culatra Island.

4hPaid boatSpring to autumn
↓ ≈ 10 min by road · 10 km
13

Faro Old Town (Cidade Velha)

City walls, a cathedral with views over the lagoon, and storks on the rooftops.

1h30Cathedral: paidAll year