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| Lagos Info |
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Just under an hours drive from Faro Airport and surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve lies the city of Lagos. Set between the breathtaking cape of Ponta da Piedade and a stunning 4 kilometre stretch of white sand called Meia Praia, Lagos overlooks the sparkling waters of the Atlantic.
Historically speaking, Lagos became known as an important naval centre during the time of the discoveries in the XV century and acted as capital of the Algarve from 1576 – 1756. The town was severely damaged by the 1755 earthquake; hence much of the cities historic architecture comes from the XVIII and XIX centuries. Its roots as a fishing village are still apparent as local fishermen set sail at dawn to bring in the days catch which can be purchased at the recently renovated fish market located at the heart of the main avenue or Avenida. |
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While one side of the Avenida thrives with small shops and businesses, the other side is home to the Lagos Marina welcoming many a seafarer arriving from the Atlantic. Along with several lively restaurants and bars, the marina offers information and booking for all types of water sports including sailing, scuba diving, water skiing and big game fishing just to name a few.
Golfers are catered to with over 20 courses scattered throughout the Algarve, 2 set in the town of Lagos and another 2 within a short 15 minute drive. Other sports enthusiasts can practice tennis, bowls, horse riding or even hang gliding. |
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Beach lovers will find a host of options available to them. To the southeast of Lagos lies Meia Praia, a world apart from other local beaches. Distinguished by its length (4 kilometres in length) and its especially soft white sand, the beach is free from rocks and therefore a perfect place to practice all types of water sports.
There is a windsurfing centre right on the beach, and in summer months, the horizon is often dotted with little white triangles: sails from boats participating in one of the many regattas. |
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There is a windsurfing centre right on the beach, and in summer months, the horizon is often dotted with little white triangles: sails from boats participating in one of the many regattas. On days when there is a strong northerly wind, sunbathers will often opt to stay close to one of the beach bars or head for more protected sands among the coves. The coastline offers a string of beaches connected with cave-like tunnels including Praia da Solaria, Praia da Batata and Praia dos Estudantes. Next along the coast is the Praia do Pinhão, previously a strategic maritime observation point, once the site of a military fort. |
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Praia Dona Ana is a tourist favourite, possibly due to its picture perfect look shown on postcards throughout the Algarve, while the praias do Camilo and Canavial are amongst others on the way to the Ponta da Piedade which offer a relaxing atmosphere and refreshing shady areas provided by the rocks into which the beaches are carved.
Further to the west and located at the bottom of a steep hill lies Porto do Mós, a beautiful carpet of sand also sheltered by rising cliffs. While all of these beaches are considered good alternatives providing protection from the northern wind, Meia Praia is always the best option when there is a large swell and the wind is from the south east, as its ample width allows the waves to break more gently than on the smaller rocky beaches. |
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Whatever the preference, be it sailing, scuba diving or a good game of golf; whatever the taste, be it fresh grilled fish at one of the beach bars or exploring the coastline nestled with coves, Lagos has something to offer everyone. |
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