Sagres is unlike any other destination in the Algarve.
This laidback, somewhat isolated village is situated at the extreme western tip of the Algarve and is home to some of the region’s most dramatic natural scenery.
With its raging seas, towering cliffs and immense beaches, the destination is a paradise for nature lovers and surfers.
Expect stunning, desolate and breathtaking scenery, but not much else.
Location
Sagres is 115 kilometres west of Faro Airport, and the journey by car takes around an hour and 20 minutes.
It is possible to get to Sagres by public transport, but from the airport you will need to take a taxi or bus to Faro train or bus station.
Catch a bus or train to Lagos, and from there you will need another bus journey.
If you are staying in Sagres, it would be a good idea to hire a car for the duration of your trip.
Unless you are happy to spend the entire time surfing you might become a little stir-crazy.
Things to See and Do
There isn’t much of historical interest in the town, and this is not a conventional tourist destination. Apart from the beach and surfing, there isn’t a whole lot to do.
However, if you are looking for somewhere to escape the crowds and fun-filled mayhem of busy tourist spots in the Algarve, Sagres is the place to visit, especially for those who enjoy rugged nature and the outdoors.
As well as surfing (wind, kite and body boarding), there are challenging hiking trails and plenty of quiet roads for cycling.
You can also book deep-sea fishing trips at the harbour.
Sagres is the perfect place for a peaceful day trip if you are based in the busier surrounding resort towns such as Lagos. There are regular bus services from Lagos.
Fort
Perhaps the only real attraction (apart from the rugged scenery) is the Fortaleza de Sagres fort.
This impressive defensive structure consists of a single wall, while the other three sides are protected by sheer cliffs. The fort space is vast, but there isn’t much to see with the exception of a wind compass and small chapel.
Nevertheless, the views over the cliffs are well worth the trip – simply spectacular.
Harbour
Situated on the sheltered eastern side of the headland of Sagres is the fishing harbour.
Here you will be able to watch fisherman bringing in their catch throughout the day.
Beaches
The stunning Praia da Mareta Beach is situated on the western side of the headland.
It is perfect for surfing and this long stretch of sandy beach is a great place to bask in the sunshine.
Cabo de São Vicente
Five kilometres from Sagres is Europe’s most south-western point.
The barren headland is a spectacular spot for watching the sunset.
There is a lighthouse, which houses the Museu dos Faróis, an excellent (though small) museum showcasing Portugal’s maritime navigation history.
The lighthouse is one of the most powerful in Portugal and can be seen up to 50 kilometres out to sea.
Eating Out
The small, sleepy town of Sagres looks a little ramshackled, but there are some decent cafés and traditional Portuguese restaurants, offering food at much more reasonable prices than restaurants in larger resorts along the Algarve.