Alone in Algarve

My most favorite social network is Instagram. I can spend hours browsing through photos by skilled photographers and people I admire. I like it when I accidentally stumble on someone and then he becomes my favorite source of inspiration. It inspires me in what and how to take photos or what to bake and most recently also where to travel. And that is how our roadtrip to Portugal started.

I found a picture of a beautiful place – a cave in cliff with a big hole at the top and the rays of sun were shining through the whole cave. Something amazing. Something awesome. I just immediately said to myself: “I must go there.” To be honest… I planned the trip just because of this picture. Well, other reason was the Douro Valley with Port vineyards but about this later :).

I found out this cave is on the south coast of Portugal. The region is called Algarve and is full of monumental cliffs, natural beauty and stunning views. In summer it is a popular destination because of its beaches but we were curious how it will be in autumn.

With my husband we were looking for some nice, romantic town from where it is best to explore the south coast Algarve. After reading many articles and recommendations from Portuguese people we picked Lagos, a small pleasant town with historical centre and marina. The town and the whole region surprised us because it was almost empty. It was even more romantic because we could be alone in the nature during the day and didn’t need to wait in good restaurants in the evening. And although Portugal is not expensive, the prices were even better off season. And btw. don’t worry about the weather in late November. The temperature was around 20-25 degrees so it felt almost like in summer but not too warm. Well it was perfect timing to travel.

We have stayed in a cozy hotel Marina Rio with very kind receptionists, best gluten free breakfast ever, a nice view of marina and a pool on the roof with view of the old centre and marina too.

The first day we have already discovered the magical coast of Lagos. We have decided to walk along it on foot although local people recommended us to take a car. We were excited about our choice because that way we have seen all the beauties of the coast not accessible by car. There was nobody on the beach. No voices, just waves of sea and wind in the hair. We have felt so tiny compared to the cliffs. Such an amazing and breathtaking feeling.

For the rest of the places we visited like: old historical town Tavira, small village Santa Luzia, stunning lighthouse in Sagres with the biggest natural fortress I have ever seen we used car. But for the most important stop we took a boat. Benagil. Home of the picture I have seen on the Instagram.

Benagil is a widespread place full of magical caves. The most interesting thing about it is, that you can only get there by water. Because of taking photos and safety we decided to go there by boat. Before the cruise we have found when exactly the tides come in to go inside the cave. First we have visited around 20 others interesting caves and cliffs resembling various animals. And at the end The Cave. So glamorous. Much better, even more exciting and fascinating than in the photo. Really, I was speechless. The only pity was dangerously rough sea and because of it we couldn’t get off the boat. Nevertheless it was a memorable experience .

Well we have our main need more than just satisfied 🙂