I never considered Portugal as a holiday destination. Little did I know that if planned properly, Portugal can be a perfect holiday destination with the right temperature and practically zero crowds. We visited the Algarve region of Portugal during the last week of May. We couldn't have picked a better time than this. There were practically no crowds. At times, we felt that we were on a private beach. Water was warm enough to swim in the late afternoons and temperatures were around 25-30°C. This is how a perfect vacation should be.
Driving is the best and only way to see Portugal. We took a flight to Faro and rented a car online. We picked our rental car at Faro airport and had the independence to roam around as we please. Car rental prices are reasonable compared to other European countries like Ireland. Pre-pay for the tolls at the rental office beforehand. I presume all tolls are electronic as I did not find any toll booths on the highway.
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| Cape Sagres Viewpoint |
Sagres is a municipality in the South-Western tip of Portugal. Sagres Fortress or Fortaleza de Sagres is located at the southernmost tip of Sagres. Sagres played a prominent role in the 15th century during the golden era of Portugal's exploration. The fort is mainly a series of huge walls built to separate the mainland from Sagres head. Henry the Navigator launched his expedition from Sagres. Most of the fort was destroyed by 1755's earthquake and resultant tsunami. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the area on foot. Even though there is not much to see, this fort provides beautiful views of the ocean from the cliffs.
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| Church of Our Lady of Grace |
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| Inside the Church |
On N125, 10 KM away from Sagres, we came across an un-named shop full of Portugal made ceramic wear. The collection inside the store is huge and the variety is incredible. This place is located right next to the N125 and hard to miss. I got a 'Rooster of Barcelona' and a Portugal ceramic tile from this shop.
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| A Splendid Find |
Next stop - Farol da Ponta da Peidade, Lagos.
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| Ponta da Piedade |
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| Cliffs & Crystal Clear Water |
We drove down the dusty road, without any expectations. Parked our car in an empty parking spot and followed the crowd blindly. Then, we climbed down a series of narrow stairs. Little did we know that these are the stairs leading to a hidden paradise. The sea caves stood shining like golden mountains in the bright afternoon Sun. Boats were floating on a crystal clear turquoise water. One can spend hours appreciating the beauty of the land and the sea. Gazing at the ocean floor and guessing it's depth. My heart danced with joy like a child in a candy store.
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| Accessible Only by Small Boat |
Small boat tours start at the foot of the cliff and take visitors through the sea caves and formations. These caves are accessible by a small boat or kayak or SUP board. Tour lasts for 20-30 minutes covering the surrounding areas. This was the best day of our vacation.
