Algarve Resorts - Lagos
Monday, 16th November 2009
Lagos is a beautiful town, with roots going back to at least Roman times. Located towards the western tip of The Algarve, about 50 miles from Faro, and less than 4 miles to Praia da Luz. Portimao and Praia da Rocha are about ten miles away.
Lagos has many links with history. The famous explorer Vasco de Gama set sail from Lagos in 1499, and Henry the Navigator used the Port as his base for the expeditions to the New World. Christopher Columbus was allegedly rescued from drowning here by local residents. The town was attacked by the famous British seaman, and pirate, Sir Francis Drake, who failed in his attempt, so he sailed on to Sagres, and sacked that town instead.
The town is full of interesting buildings and monuments. The wall that once surrounded the town still remains in parts, and is being restored. The tourist resort has developed around the town, but has been achieved without spoiling the atmosphere of the old town. A Marina was built in the last few years, which attracts many boats.
Tourists can enjoy many water sports and boat trips from the Marina. Deep sea fishing is very popular. There are also waterparks to enjoy.
The beaches and coastline in this area are truly spectacular with several in Lagos or close by, and plenty of little deserted beaches and coves to explore. The headland of Ponta de Piedade is amazing, with its cliffs, rock formations, grottos, coves and gorgeous, clear, waters.
Other notable beaches include Praia de Dora Ana, and Meia Praia, which is almost three miles long.The surfers’ paradise at Costa Vincentina is a short drive away.
There are plenty of nice cafes and restaurants in the town and around the Marina, as well as a large number of bars, pubs, karaoke bars, discos and clubs. The younger crowd have plenty of choices of venues to dance the night away.
Lagos has several town festivals, including:
- May The Fishermen’s festival ( boat parades)
- July Sweetmeats festival ( gastronomy)
- August Odiaxere Festival ( gastronomy, music and dancing)
- August Banho Festival ( music, beauty parades, food, fireworks)
- October St Goncalo Day, the Patron Saint of Lagos. ( food, drink, the lot!)
Once you have been to Lagos, you will always want to come back.
