Aljezur
A whitewashed hill village and the gateway to the Costa Vicentina's wild beaches — surf, cliffs, and the west Algarve's quiet soul.
The base for the wild west coast; pair with the Rota Vicentina and Sagres.
Why go
A real, unhurried village above a river, with a ruined castle, and access to the Costa Vicentina's stunning, empty beaches (Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, Amoreira). Surf, cliffs, and almost no development.
Why you might skip it
Beaches are a short drive, not walkable; cold Atlantic water.
What to do
Beaches of Arrifana, Monte Clérigo and Amoreira; the castle view; surf; Rota Vicentina sections.
What to eat
Fresh fish at the beach restaurants; west-coast country cooking.
Where to stay
The village or the beach-side surf lodges.
Getting there & around
Car from Lagos.
What's here
Carrapateira surf breaks
Carrapateira offers two distinct, high-quality Atlantic surf breaks at Praia da Bordeira and Praia do Amado, set against a backdrop of dramatic limestone cliffs and protected dunes. It remains one of the most reliable and wild surf destinations in the Algarve, catering to a wide range of skill levels.
Costa Vicentina scenic drive (N120/N268)
The Costa Vicentina scenic drive along the N120 and N268 connects Aljezur to the rugged western coastline, offering unparalleled views of dramatic cliffs and pristine Atlantic beaches. This route serves as the primary artery for exploring the wild, protected landscapes of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park.
Praia de Odeceixe
Where the Ribeira de Seixe meets the Atlantic in a broad cliff bay — the prettiest beach village on the Costa Vicentina.
Praia do Amado
The Algarve's west-coast surf beach — wide, wave-swept, and the soul of the laid-back Costa Vicentina.
Where it sits
