Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
Lagos is one of the oldest towns in the Algarve and is full of historical and cultural buildings with plenty of traditional charm and character. There are plenty of beaches to choose from, a good selection of bars and restaurants and fairly lively nightlife. Lagos is popular with families and couples.
Lagos
Lagos (pronounced Lar-gosh), on the west coast of the Algarve, really does have it all. Several beautiful beaches including the never ending, uncrowded Meia Praia. With a large busy marina and maze of a town centre this resort is perfect for people watching. With Cape St Vincent and the Monchique mountains on your doorstep, Lagos is the perfect choice for everyone. Best suited to couples and groups of any age. Transfer time approx 1hr 30 - 2hrs.
Beaches
Lagos is home to some of the best beaches in the Algarve and there is plenty to choose from too.
Meia Praia is the most popular beach in Lagos. The beach offers over 4km of beautiful, clean sand with various car parks along the way so it is easily accessible. There are also ramps and wooden walkways for easy access. There are some beach bars here too for those who are in need of a little refreshment. This beach has been awarded the Blue Flag.
Praia da Batata is the closest beach to the town centre and is therefore known as the 'town beach'. Although this beach is smaller than the likes of Meia Praia, it is sheltered and divided into smaller coves which are accessible by holes in the rocks. There is a couple of beach bars and some sunbeds for hire. It is also possible to participate in sea kayak tours or other watersports.
Check out the fantastic rock formations at Dona Ana Beach and take shelter from the sea breeze. The beach is accessible via wooden steps so is not suitable for wheelchair users or buggies. There is some car parking behind the beach and a restaurant.
Camillo beach is just beautiful, although it is reached by a number of steps so perhaps not accessible by all. The view from the top of the beach is fantastic and the restaurant is popular with local residents who can enjoy the view whilst sampling the freshly caught seafood.
Things to Do
There are many historical sites and attraction in Lagos so take a wander round the cobbled streets and take a step back in time.
Lagos is surrounded by fantastic cliffs and perhaps the best way to explore these is by taking a grotto tour. The local fishermen will take you on a tour of the local caves and navigate their way through and around the cliffs and amazing rock formations. There are also many secluded beach coves that are only accessible by boat.
If you enjoy being active whilst on holiday, then take a trip to the sports complex in Lagos. Here you will find a state of the art fitness centre, indoor football and heated swimming pool. There is also an auditorium which hosts concerts and various exhibitions throughout the year.
There is also a couple of tennis courts in Lagos, perfect if you are feeling energetic. Equipment can be hired and courts can be rented per the hour or you could take part in some tennis classes.
Out and About
As well as the many historical attractions in Lagos, there are many bars, cafes and restaurants just waiting to be visited. There are many restaurants to be found in both the Old Town and down at the Marina. The cafes and restaurants down the marina area tend to be a little quieter and great for a spot of people watching.
Nightlife here can be as quiet or as lively as you want it to be. There is everything from trendy bars, late night jazz bars and nightclubs that stay open unto the early hours so whether it's a quiet drink or a party atmosphere, Lagos has it all.
There are plenty of shops here in Lagos, so whether you are looking for a special present to take home or just fancy treating yourself to something new, you will find the perfect gift here and have fun exploring the many shops at the same time.
Nearby Attractions
There is plenty to do in the area too.
There are many attractions at Aqualand which is a water park,to suit the whole family. There are swimming pools, wave pools, gentle slides for little ones and slightly more thrilling rides for bigger kids and adults too. The park can get very busy but it is a great day out for all.
Hop on board one of the dolphin seafari boats and head out to sea to see the dolphins at play. Dolphins are such beautiful creatures and it is just great to see them having fun in their natural environment. If you are lucky, you may also see orcas and turtles on this 90 minute trip.
The zoo in the village of Barao Sao Joao is very popular with both locals and tourists and provides an entertaining yet educational experience for all. More than 120 animal species and 200 botanical species can be found in a natural environment. There is a snack bar and restaurant on site should you require something to eat.
The Zoo Marine in Guia is a very popular choice for families with children and is the highlight of many a holiday. Visitors will be able to see dolphins, sea lions, seals, tropical birds and various birds of prey. There is also an aquarium with exotic fish and sharks and there is a 4D cinema too so there is plenty to keep everyone occupied.
As you will no doubt be aware, the Algarve is well known for its golf courses and with at least 20 golf courses in the area, there will be one to suit, no matter what your ability. Most of the courses are open throughout the year and some may require proof of handicap.
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