The “Costa Vicentina” begins in Sagres Algarve, stretches northwards and is dominated by steep cliffs with astounding beaches. The Cape St. Vicent and Sagres promontory stand on the southwesternmost point of Portugal, forming the end of the European Coastal Path.
Here you can feel the wild power of nature. Sagres is historically connected to the Portuguese Age of the Discoveries, providing a mythical atmosphere linked to the enigmatic figure of Prince Henry the Navigator. In Sagres Algarve nature combines itself with history and creates a unique region that is well worth a visit.
Highlights Sagres
The village of Sagres Algarve is a picturesque fishing port that dates back to before the Roman conquest. It has an attractive square with bars and restaurants around it. These days Sagres is well-known for its fine beaches, and is a very popular spot among surfers. The highlights of Sagres Algarve are:
- The Fortress – An imposing National Monument dated from the 15th century, offering superb coastal views.
- The Cape St. Vicent’s Lighthouse – Set within a medieval fortress, this lighthouse guards one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes and is among the most powerful in Europe.
- The Cape St. Vicent’s Museum – Several themes are presented in an accessible way: their historical significance, the development of coastal lights and navigational aids, as well as life at sea.
The coast of Sagres Algarve extends to the north and east of Cabo de São Vicente (Cape St. Vincent). There are many beautiful beaches around Sagres Algarve, and they are a great alternative to the busiest holiday destinations. Some are small beaches nestled between the cliffs, almost wild and quite isolated; others broad expanses of fine white sand that stretch away to the horizon. You may even find a beach all to yourself! Here are a few suggestions:
- Praia da Mareta – Close to the village, this beach provides calm waters, a good starting point for diving.
- Praia da Baleeira – Very popular for surfing, windsurfing and body board, depending on the sea conditions.
- Praia do Tonel – Close to the Fortress, it has good views of the Sagres Point and Cabo de São Vicente.
- Praia do Beliche – Sandy sheltered beach by huge cliffs. Between Sagres Point and Cabo de São Vicente.
- Praia da Cordoama – A long strip of sand in a large bay surrounded by steep cliffs near Vila do Bispo. Ideal for surfing and paragliding. Very quiet.
- Praia do Castelejo – Surrounded by beautiful rock formations. Popular with surfers due to strong waves.
- Praia do Martinhal – Long beach surrounded by a broad bay. Scenic islets opposite the beach.
Activities & Events Sagres
The region of Sagres Algarve offers amazing holiday experiences, ranging from fishing, sailing, surfing, kite surfing, trekking and windsurfing to snorkelling, diving, paragliding, dolphin and bird watching. Or just simply enjoy a boat trip and gaze at the most beautiful sunsets… The natural landscape presents different species of flora and fauna well worth exploring.
Sagres Algarve has several fairs, popular events and celebrations throughout the year, namely the festivities in honour of Nº Sra. Da Graça (Our Lady of Grace), the patron saint of Sagres, which take place in mid-August and always offer a varied assortment of concerts, choirs, dance parties and exhibitions.
Restaurants & Bars Sagres
With the sea at its feet, it is no wonder that the main gastronomy of Sagres Algarve is focused on fresh fish and seafood: grilled bream, fish bouillabaisse (Caldeirada), goose barnacles, fish pasta stew, cuttlefish or fried moray are among the many typical, delicious dishes. The desserts and sweets use generous quantities of figs and almonds; the traditional honey cake is well worth trying! There are several restaurants in Sagres Algarve, some on the beach, all offering friendly, homely ambiances and superb cuisine.
Sagres’ night life is mostly centred on the main street of the village – The Bars’ Street, where tourists and residents get together and the fun is guaranteed. There are bars and lounges for all tastes and moods. Here are some suggestions for a great summer night of good enjoyment: ‘Água Salgada’, ‘Bubble Lounge’, ‘Colombus’, ‘Dromedário’, ‘Last Chance Saloon’, ‘Mitic Cocktail Bar’, ‘Warung’.
There’s only one nightclub in Sagres, ‘Topas Disco Bar’ where the night owls end the night, surfers included. Especially In the summer months, and from the time the bars close, the place is packed with fun seekers.
Surroundings Sagres
Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente (Cape St. Vincent) are surrounded by ancient, historical and mythological places. The municipality of Vila do Bispo with its many menhirs bear witness to prehistoric rites. Its history is tied to the history of Cape St. Vincent, the Discoveries, and the fact that it also suffered in a big degree the effects of the 1755 earthquake. Other interesting places to visit and explore in the area of Sagres Algarve are:
- Village of Pedralva – An ancient village that was reconstructed and brought back to life.
- Ermida de Nª Srª de Guadalupe (Hermitage of Our Lady of Guadalupe) – Raposeira – Built in the Romanesque-Gothic style, it dates back to the 13th Century; some say it was built by the Knights Templar.
- Budens – A picturesque village with an antique fountain and tank, and a typical lime kiln. Worth visiting the 18th century country church, the Hermitages of São António (St. Anthony) and of São Lourenço (St. Lawrence).
- Sagres Golf Courses Algarve – Budens (Parque de Floresta) – A fascinating course with visually attractive views of the surrounding countryside lined on the horizon by the sea.
Accommodation Sagres
Algarve Housing rent holiday villas in the Algarve, Portugal. From rustic windmills and cottages till luxury town houses and villas. From private pools and gardens, some with private tennis courts, jacuzzi, pooltable till Morrocan interiors, modern,Asian, you name it we have your ideal holiday villa in the Algarve, Portugal. Would you like to stay in the Sagres area? Please check our West Algarve section for your own paradise near Sagres Algarve!