Lagos and Area
Lagos in the West of the Algarve, is perhaps one of the most visually appealling of the main towns along the coast, steeped in history it has a long and sometimes controversial seafaring history. Traditionally the west was less well frequented by tourists, the new road network has made it much more accessible and just around an hour's drive from Faro airport. You can still lose yourself on near deserted beaches particularly if you head further west, Sagres and Sao Vincente are on the western most points. The combination of wind and sea erosion has created a puzzle of caverns, grottoes and sheer cliffs, as well as stretches of golden sands. Battlements stand on top of the cliffs reminding us again of Portugal's turbulent history. Sunsets in the western Algarve are a sight to behold and most villas have views to the west where the evening skies can be aglow with golden hues through to the purples and midnight blues of the night.Enclosed within Lagos' 5th century walls are many magnificent churches, Sao Sebastiao (Renaissance portals and 17th-18th century tiles), Santa Maria of Misericordia (16th-19th centuries), Santo Antonio (Baroque) and the very old Sao Joao Chapel (8th-9th centuries). Other places of historical interest area the 17th century Forte do Pau da Bandeira which is now a museum, the town's natural harbour and charming marina, the Regional Museum, the Governors' Palace and the Old Slave Market. Unfortunately Lagos was the centre of Portugal's slave trade and was the first town in history to operate a slave market, Henry the Navigator's mariners set sail from Lagos for West Africa on their voyages of discovery to the new world and the Americas. Along its cobbled streets there's lots to explore with a number of galleries, boutiques and some wonderful restaurants and characterful bars. Most of the best restaurants specialise is fresh seafood which is still landed in the marina here, there's also a wonderful fish and vegetable market that was unfortunately moved recently from its traditional site. Approaching from the east, the coastline is dominated by the long sweep of golden sand known as Meia Praia, backed by extensive dunes and home to the Palmerias golf course. To the west of the town the coastline becomes more rugged and there are some incredible beaches and coastal scenery, don't miss Praia d'Ana and Porte do Mos on the Ponta da Piedade peninsula. Whilst Lagos is a great cultural centre there's also plenty of sport available, Palmeiras and Boa Vista golf courses are both popular with the stunning and challenging course at Parque Floresta to the west worth considering. Many fishermen also provide big game fishing and more leisurely excursions along the twisted and sea sculpted coastline. In the nearby resort of Luz there's the Jonathan Markson tennis centre and the Luz Ocean Club providing a range of water sports and tuition.
Funchal Ridge
Funchal Ridge is a residential area set in lush green countryside overlooking the coastal town and resort of Lagos. Within a short drive of both Lagos and the small family holiday destination of Praia da Luz, Funchal Ridge provides a perfect, peaceful setting and the ideal base from which to explore this beautiful part of the Algarve. We have 2 villas in Funchal Ridge.
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