Southern Portugal Road Trip 🚘 The Algarve is Portugal’s most southern region- denoted by incredible beaches, rock formations, the freshest seafood, golf and sunshine. Steller's own Kelley Ferro explores this region and shares the must stop locations for an incredible Algarve road trip! AuthorsSteller
DestinationsLagosItinerary

Must See

Benagil Cave
The famed Benagil Cave is either view from above, like shown, or below by boat. The benefit from above is you get to walk the 7 Hanging Valleys trail which has some of the most iconic and truly jawdropping views in all of Portugal!
See More
Castelo de Tavira
Tavira is a gorgeous town and this castle at the top of the hill is a major landmark. I loved the gardens, comprised of plants/trees/flowers brought in from all over the world.
See More
Murales basados en fotografías históricas de Olhão
Step back in time in this historical area and admire the massive murals showcasing Olhao's past.
See More
Culatra Island
Take a water taxi out to this sustainable, self sufficient island. It feels completley unique and separate from the mainland and defintely worth a trip!
See More

Must Beach

Praia Dona Ana
Fun for a group or a day of sun bathing, this Lagos beach is one of the larger ones and still stunning. There's a great beach restaurant so you don't need shoes to get a good meal!
See More
Praia do Camilo
My favorite beach-- this small cove is perfect for a quieter hang out with a friend, kids or couples. They have a small beach shack serving up drinks and tunes. Dont miss walking throug the cave!
See More
Beach Galé (West)
Perfect sand and endless waves-- this is an excellent beach day for the whole family or for groups.
See More
Ponta da Piedade
As beautitul above as it is below, this is another Lagos beach that offers a breathtaking view and a pretty stretch of beach (though the smallest beach).
See More
Trip Highlight
Cacela Velha is a unique beach day as you may need a boat to reach it! Depending on the tides, boats ferry passengers to/fro this lovely beach area. The town is small but sweet and perfect for a meal or a sunset drink.
See More

Must Do

Ludo Trail
The lovely oceanfront trail of raised docks is a lovely way to explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park where you can find spoonbills, flamingos even chameleons! Look up Algarve Cycling for an amazing guided ride!
See More
The Campus
A lovely facility in Quinta do Lago for all kinds of sports, pool, fitness, cycling and an excellent lunch. This would make for a fun & active afternoon!
See More
Mercados de Olhão
The locals flock to these markets for the freshest produce, cheese, meat and seafood. Bring a freezer bag with you and take home fresh catch for lunch!
See More
Morgado do Quintão
A family run winery in a breathtaking setting - be sure to book a lunch here for a day you will not forget. They serve up freshly made local fare and pour their organic, sustainable wines. It is a boutique hotel as well if you don't want to leave!
See More
Carvoeiro Boardwalk
Feeling adventurous? Embark on a boat tour from this beach and discover the Benagil Cave and one of the Algarve's prettiest coastlines by boat.
See More

Must Eats

Mesón Veneza
I've never had dinner in a wine shop before! This was an extra special experience-- this shop has been around for a 100 years and you can feel the history as you dine among the shelves of special wines. The food is hearty and very local-- I recommend the pork shank. They take you through a lovely wine pairing, finishing with Port of course!
See More
Casa do Lago
Probably one of the coolest restaurants in Portugal, this open air space is situated on a lake, right next to the ocean in a nature preserve. Fish are jumping, birds are flying and tunes are wafting as you eat clams and toast with a spritz. Perfect for a very long lunch!
See More
Pastelaria Neusa
This tiny bakery has made big waves, bringing locals over from the mainland to the island of Culatra for their sweet treats. All made by hand and right in front of you, certain treats like the jesuitas sell out so if you see them, buy a few for friends!
See More
Restaurante O Patio
Carveoiro is a lively beach town with a lot of al fresco restaurants but this one is a cut above the rest. Great food, fun setting and a view of the water!
See More

Must Stays

The Magnolia Hotel
A super cute boutique hotel on Quinta do Lago with an adorable Palm Springs motif and picturesque pool.
See More
Book
NAU Salgados Dunas Suites
Located just behind a wide stretch of beach, this hotel option is solid for travelers looking to be close to Albufiera and the beach. Pools are nice and rooms are clean and decent.
See More
Book
Palmares Ocean Living & Golf
Set on a hilltop overlooking the ocean, just 15 minutes from Lagos, Palmares is an upscale hotel, apartment and golf resort. The apartments each have large patios or balconies and their own kitchens plus another shared pool.
See More
Book
Palmares Beach House Hotel
The hotel in the Palmares Ocean Living property has large rooms, a bountiful breakfast and picturesque outdoor pool. Make sure to check out the view at sunset!
See More
Book