Algarve: fantastic beaches and rock formations
The most characteristic thing at the Algarve are the fantastic beaches and rock formations to me.
Especially between Sagres and the Percorso dos Sete Vales Suspensos (the path of the seven hanging
valleys) it is the erosion of the rocks that fascinates me time after time. At the cliff line I come across
yellow, red and terra-cotta coloured stratums – depending on the solar irradiation. Pittoresque
views, washed out caves, tunnels and rock arches but also rock needles and peaks off the coast
accompany us on our hiking tours.
Algar Seco
In between we see small sand bays and beaches, which often can only be reached by boat or with the
help of bold climbing. Dolines, sinkholes, caves- and cleft systems were being built over the years by
dissolution of chalk and sandstone. But be careful: Walking on the cost paths is not hazard-free. On
the one hand there is the strong wind coming from the sea which can kill you on the timber plank
ways at Algar Seco or Ponta da Piedade. On the other hand the rocks are quite fragile due to wind,
water and heat. It is not for nothing that the government has put up warning signs at some places.
The 570 meter long wooden path of Algar Seco with its bizarre rock formations is definitely a
highlight at the Atlantic coast. The tunnel walk which is situated close to a restaurant leading to a
natural balcony is quite overrun and also overrated – to my mind. From here you can walk up to the
lighthouse.
Still, the views and numerous beaches make me go into rhapsodies. For example there is the Praia da
Marinha close to Carvoeiro. This beach has been awarded several times. It is scenicly embedded
between the steep cost. Than the Praia de Benagil with its offshore caves which are characterized by
circular cutouts and fascinating light- and shadow plays. Pleasure boats from Carvoeiro sail to this
sights regularly.
Ilha de Tavira
Whoever, just like me, collects sea shells will love Praia do Barril on the Ilha de Tavira. The endless
beach holds a manifold of very beautiful sheels of different varieties and colours. I really had to stop
myself from collecting. Moreover the is a narrow-gauge railway going from Pedras d’El Rei to the
beach. It is certainly fun for kids and railway aficionados.
Ponta da Piedade and Ria Formosa
Another recommendation is the hike from Ponta da Piedade to Lagos. This walk passes by numerous
beaches, such as the Praia do Camilo, which is located close to the lighthouse. Moreover there is the
Praia do Pinhao, the pine-tree beach. The green-blue water is extremely clear at this point. And
finally there are the Praia do Canavial and the Praia do Porte de Mos, which are at the city limits of
Lagos. Typical holiday feeling is dominant: kiosks, restaurant and loud music.
The nature park Ria Formosa is for ornithologist. You can see stilts, Eurasian spoonbills, flamingos or
herons. More than 200 different bird species are said to live here. The park has a nature trail. Next to
a Roman excavation, a former salting station, there are bird watching towers. The men with the
tripods and the telephoto lens showed us that the waiting is worth it.
