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Lagos in Western Algarve Portugal,Lagos was the main City for the Algarve back in the 16th century, you can’t help get into that holiday mode with its marina along the front, It is just what you would expect sun, sea and a picturesque place that looks affluent with its million pound yachts and boats,
One just dreams of gracing the high seas with the crystal clear waters with a glass of something in one hand or even a rod in the other, well it is possible as you can easily find many boat trips for the day to take in the Algarve’s coastline whilst sunbathing on deck, or if fishing takes your fancy then you can go for the day or half day with a BBQ on board and eating your catch for lunch.
The main town offers a vibrant array of shops café’s bars and restaurants, it was once said that Francis Drake failed in 1587 to raid Lagos, but if only they had the bakeries then, like they have now he would have had something to fight for, as the pastel de natas (custard tart in flaky pastry) are to die for and with a coffee in one of the many bars before you set of to explore the Town, even if you are not a history buff you can’t help notice the culture the Town had back in the 15th century, with it’s buildings dating back to 1445 which was Europe’s first ever building used solely for the purpose of selling slaves hence slave markets, it is well worth wondering through the back streets as you never know what you will come across, from the golden Church of Santo Antonio to hunting out the little bakers, that sells all sorts of pies steak/kidney, cheese/onion, and quiches.
Little changes over time when it comes to marinas, but now its more up-to-date instead of 800 galleons from the Armada led by Dom Sebastiao in 1578,it now houses around the same figure of luxury boats. The fishing boat have always stayed the test of time and will for years to come offering trips to nearby caves.
Lagos has seen its battles over its history, even a visit from Columbus and yet with all this history behind it and its important buildings which have stood the test of time, Lagos is what you want to make it. from strolls along the marina before heading to a restaurant to watch the sun set , down to bars and clubs that you can stroll out of to watch the sunrise. For those photo opportunities visit the Fort (Forte da Bandeira) which was built in the 17th Century, and check out the tourist office to see what events are going on then head to the Cultural centre in the square as always exhibitions on though out the year
Local Events
Feira Coral do Algarve (Choral) May
Feira da Arte Doce (Sweets) 29th and 30th July
Feira da Gastronomia (Food) August
Town Holiday 27th October
Market Day 1st Saturday of the Month
Tourist Office (Lagos) 282 763 031
Lagos it a Town ideal for families, with plenty to do and see, it has a good daily fish market along the front,with it monthly market ( see markets ). For those going out on the many boat trips on offer, do check that they have life jackets,