Category Archives: Beach Reviews

Lost in the Details – Rock Formations at Praia da Dona Ana

Posted on March 2, 2013 | 35 Comments

Every week WordPress posts a Weekly Photo Challenge and this week’s theme is Lost in the Details . The instructions direct from the horse’s mouth (aka WordPress) are “This challenge is about getting lost in the details”. Hmmm ponderous! The theme of the challenge was rather lost on me to begin with, until I downloaded the photographs I’d taken of Praia da Dona Ana beach.

Colourful sandstone cliffs at Praia da Dona Ana

Colourful sandstone cliffs at Praia da Dona Ana

I love the layers of colours in the sandstone cliffs and the shape of the rock formations carved out by the sea.

Rocks at Praia da Anna, Lagos, Portugal

Rocks at Praia da Anna, Lagos, Portugal

There is also colony of birds nesting on the rocks, however my zoom lens was not powerful enough to take a really good close-up. I am not sure if these birds are Cormorants or Shags. I need to research further – what do you think?

Cormorant or Shag?

Cormorant or Shag?

And finally, Praia da Dona Ana on a sunny day!

Praia da Dona Ana, Lagos, Portugal

Praia da Dona Ana, Lagos, Portugal

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My Algarve Insider Tips

Posted on October 4, 2012 | 32 Comments

Our first holiday to the  Algarve was nearly thirty years ago and memories of the stunning beaches remain imprinted in our minds like footprints in the sand. The secluded coves and miles of beaches with soft golden sand, flanked by sandstone rocks, rugged cliffs and unspoilt countryside enticed us to return; not to holiday, but  to live. Nowadays, these same beaches are flanked by hotels and busy fashionable resorts such as Vale do Lobo, Albufeira and Portimão to name a few. Which is great, but if you are looking for something a little different and more relaxed,  I will let you in to a secret with my “Algarve Insider Tips”

So step back in time with me, drive west and explore the unspoilt countryside and beaches of the Western Algarve and the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vincentina.

Discover the natural beauty of the Western Algarve

Discover the natural beauty of the Western Algarve

Discover for yourself the stunning beaches in an area of outstanding natural beauty popular with those who want to chill in a more relaxed and natural environment. There are many activities available including surfing, canoeing, fishing, golfing, walking, horse riding and birdwatching. Even if you are not avid birdwatchers look out for the magnificent white storks soaring overhead or nesting in outcrops of rocks in the sea.

White storks nesting on an outcrop of rocks

White storks nesting on an outcrop of rocks

Many people visiting the Algarve are unaware of the Western Algarve, and although I’m tempted to wax lyrical for pages on end, I will confine myself to recommending my three favourite beaches.

These are my tips for tourists visiting the Algarve

PRAIA DA AMOREIRA

Praia da Amoreira – the Algarves best kept secret!

Praia da Amoreira – the Algarves best kept secret!

Praia da Amoreira is located about 7km just outside the historic town of Aljezur. There is ample parking and a rustic restaurant bar called Paraiso do Mar which serves reasonably priced meals and refreshments.

View from Restaurante Paraiso do Mar, Praia da Amoreira

View from Restaurante Paraiso do Mar, Praia da Amoreira

There are no concession areas providing sun loungers and parasols so remember to bring your own if required. However, don’t panic because supermarkets sell reasonably priced sun parasols and small beach chairs during the summer season which will prove a good investment if you plan to visit the more rural beaches.

Praia da Amoreira, Western Algarve

Praia da Amoreira, Western Algarve

Praia da Amoreira is also popular with local surfers and fishermen. and att low tide you may even see the locals searching for mussels and octopus in the rockpools.

Read more about Praia da Amoreira. Why not make a day of it and stop off in the historic town of Aljezur and visit the moorish castle?

PRAIA DO ZAVIAL

The blue flag beach of Praia do Zavial is “off the beaten track” at Raposiera just before the rustic town of Vila do Bispo on the N125.
There is plenty of parking although in the height of the summer season early arrival at the beach is advised. Access to the beach is via a wooden walkway.

Although there is a small concession area on the beach where sunbeds and parasols are available the beach remains unspoilt by the ravages of mass tourism. You will not find tourist shops only peace and tranquility.

There is a great little café/bar overlooking the beach where you can sample Portuguese cuisine (including the usual burger and chips) served by friendly staff.

Praia do Zavial - view from Zavial Café/Restaurant

Praia do Zavial – view from Zavial Café/Restaurant

Why not take a break from the beach and building sand castles, drop in for an ice-cold beer and enjoy the view?

Read more about Praia do Zavial. It’s well worth a visit!

MEIA PRAIA and LAGOS

The blue flag beach of Meia Praia, flanked by the Marina and the old town of Lagos, has something for everyone. In fact, a day out in Lagos is one of my favourite excursions!

This glorious soft sandy beach is over 5km long, stretching from the old fort in the west…

View across to Meia Praia from the old fort

View across to Meia Praia from the old fort

…to Alvor in the east.

View from Meia Praia towards Alvor

View from Meia Praia towards Alvor

There are several activities for children near the Marina end of the beach, during the summer season. And for those looking for some peace and quiet, walk eastwards along the beach a few 100 metres towards Alvor. There really is something for everyone – even walkers who I’ve observed striding along the shoreline. Or people like myself, who amble along and then pause to collect shells and admire the distant views.

There are several rustic beach bars and restaurants on Meia Praia but my favourite to date is São Roque with its stunning views overlooking the sea and the fisherman’s’ harbour. The staff are welcoming and the food is delicious!

View towards Lagos

View towards Lagos

After a lazy day on the beach why not pause for a sundowner or ice cream sundae in the Amuras Bar at Lagos Marina before you leave. Or wander round the historic town of Lagos itself just a short walk away.

Lagos Marina at sunset

Lagos Marina at sunset

English is spoken in most of the Western Algarve, but why not take your phrase book have fun and practise the lingo?

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I hope you’ve enjoyed my “Insider Tips” but any questions please don’t hesitate to contact me by email, leave a note in the comments section below or sign up to receive regular Algarve updates by email!.

Read more of my beach reviews here

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Praia da Ingrina, Western Algarve – Portugal

Posted on July 26, 2012 | 25 Comments

Praia da Ingrina is a Blue Flag beach located in an idyllic and unspoilt country setting “far from the ‘maddening’ crowds”. As I sat on the beach enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty I could even hear a cockerel crowing in the distance. That’s a first, I’ve never heard a cockerel crowing from my vantage point on the beach before!

Praia da Ingrina is certainly one of my favourite beaches and with its sheltered bay makes it ideal for swimming, diving etc

Praia da Ingrina, Vila do Bispo, Western Algarve - Portugal

Praia da Ingrina, Vila do Bispo, Western Algarve – Portugal

Unfortunately, the day we ventured to Praia da Ingrina the gusting wind made it nigh on impossible for our wind-break to stay upright yet alone a parasol. Wanting some shade from the midday sun I looked wistfully at our parasol that lay unopened beside us. Flat on the sand and unopened was definitely the best place for it as I’d already witnessed several parasols, lifted by the wind, somersaulting like lethal weapons across the beach. There was no way I was erecting ours!

Considering the wind the sea was surprisingly calm and lapped gently on the shoreline. I love the sea so enticed by the calm waters decided to have a swim paddle and look for little fish and crabs in the rock-pools.

Restaurante do Sebastião, Praia da Ingrina

Restaurante do Sebastião, Praia da Ingrina

There is a lovely little restaurant at Praia da Ingrina called Restaurante do Sebastião which is situated right above the beach. It’s great if you don’t want to take a picnic as the reasonably priced meals, snacks and refreshments are available from 10.00 till 21.00 during season. Out of season they are still open, but you would need to confirm their opening hours.

View from Restaurante do Sebastião, Praia da Ingrina

View from Restaurante do Sebastião, Praia da Ingrina

Sheltering from the midday sun under the palm trees I enjoyed a beer on the terrace. I find it so relaxing (interesting) either looking out to sea or people-watching on the beach below – you certainly witness some amazing sights! Once there was a naked man, but because he was tattooed from head-to-toe he looked fully clothed from a distance. Only my camera’s zoom lens (I’m short-sighted) revealed the truth!

Kayaking at Praia da Ingrina, Western Algarve - Portugal

Kayaking at Praia da Ingrina, Western Algarve – Portugal

Although the beach is only a small there are an interesting range of activities including kayaking, paddle boarding and diving (sorry no banana or paddleboats). Interested in trying one of these activities in the future it took me some time to track down where to book the paddle boarding and kayaking. Yes, it’s great there are no kiosks or sales people pestering you on the beach, but not great if you would like more information. I eventually spoke to some Portuguese locals and sort of gleaned some information regarding the paddle boarding.
Apparently I booked at the “Good Feeling” hostel in Raposiera

The kayaking was easier because when they returned from their trip I pounced on one of their staff who went off to get me a leaflet.

Paddle boarding from Praia da Ingrina, Western Algarve - Portugal

Paddle boarding from Praia da Ingrina, Western Algarve – Portugal

Paddle boarding in the calm waters to see the caves. (They do actually stand on the boards I believe) I’d love to try this if I was more agile. My only fear would be if I fell off the board I would not be able to climb back on once we were in deeper water!

Useful Contact details

Restaurante do Sebasticão
Tel 282 639 034

Kayaking
ebo

www.algarveadventures.com
Tel 00351 962 044 201

Paddle Boarding
Good Feeling Hostel-Guesthouse
www.thegoodfeeling.com/index.php/en/homepageen

Related posts:
Praia do Zavial – Western Algarve
Praia do Monte Clérigo – Western Algarve
Meia Praia – one of my favourite beaches
Praia da Amoreira – the Algarves best kept secret!

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Praia do Vale dos Homens (Valley of the Men)

Posted on February 4, 2012 | 44 Comments

Praia do Vale dos Homens beach is located in the Costa Vicentina Natural Park just outside the village of Rogil in the Western Algarve. It is well off the beaten tourist track which makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a great “get away from it all” location. While some websites say it is suitable for bathing, I am not absolutely convinced. If you look at the video and pictures you will notice at low tide there are rocks along most of the shoreline.

I created this short video of Praia do Vale dos Homens – not a perfect recording but I hope you enjoy! Unfortunately, after walking up 200 of the 285 steps you can hear me gasping for breath while trying to describe the beach at the same time!

The clarity of the video is not brilliant because it is taken with a standard camera, however, it does begin to give you an idea of the location and the aura of tranquillity. At one with nature and far from the concrete jungle and high-rise hotels of the more “touristy” areas of the Algarve the Praia do Vale dos Homens is definitely worth a visit if you prefer a more natural beach.

285 steps down to beach and then back up to car park!

285 steps down to beach and then back up to car park!

While road access to the car park is easy, just 3km from Rogil by road, the only access to the beach, however, is down 285 wooden steps so not for the feint-hearted!  I can only say I found it far easier walking down than I did coming up! I certainly sound out of breath when I am talking on the video.

On the plus side, there are welcome resting areas with seats providing an excellent opportunity not only take a moment to catch your breath, but also enjoy the wonderful vistas to the beach and ocean below.

Clifftop view down to Praia do Vale dos Homens

Clifftop view down to Praia do Vale dos Homens

This beach does not have any facilities such as cafés or toilets. It is listed by some travel websites as having a life guard in the bathing season as well as being popular with “naturists”, body boarders and surfers.  I observed several local fishermen casting from the shoreline if this counts as a beach activity and you enjoy fishing!

When we arrived at Praia do Vale dos Homens we paused on the clifftop to admire the beautiful view across the bay and to the deserted beach below.  It was then we noticed a white stork nesting on an outcrop of rocks to one end of the beach. Until last year I had only seen them nesting on tall chimneys or telegraph poles so I was absolutely amazed to discover white storks also nested on rocky outcrops in the sea. I also learned, thanks to a comment left on one of my blog posts, that Portugal is the only part of the world where white storks nest in this type of location. I am so pleased I remembered to take my camera as it is not everyday you can photograph a white stork nesting in this stunning natural habitat…

White Stork nesting on outcrop of rocks at Praia do Vale dos Homens

White Stork nesting on outcrop of rocks at Praia do Vale dos Homens

As we looked across to the nest from our clifftop viewpoint we could see what could only be described as a red “blob” in the nest. Unfortunately, we did not have binoculars and the zoom on my camera is not powerful enough for long distance shots. I tried to enhance the photograph in Photoshop on my return home, but I am still non the wiser as to the identity of the red blob. Any ideas? Are baby storks or the eggs red?

“Praia do Vale dos Homens” loosely translated means “Beach of the Valley of the Men” Please correct me if I’m wrong.  Also I am confused whether it  should read “de” or “do”.  I have “googled”,  looking for inspiration, but both options  “Praia de Vale” and  “do Vale”  are listed so I  opted for the version on the official Portugal tourism website  www.visitportugal.com  Any language gurus out there?

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Praia do Carvalhal – A visit to the beach in the Alentajo

Posted on July 24, 2011 | 29 Comments
Alentejo: Praia do Carvalhal - View down to beach

Praia do Carvalhal - View down to beach

When you want to relax and escape the rat-race of the Algarve I recommend you visit the unspoilt sandy beaches in the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina on the West Coast of Portugal. However, if you are looking for beach activities, entertainment, tourist shops etc  as in Portimão and Albufeira these more “rustic” natural beaches may not be for you.

Praia da Carvalhal, which is in the Alentajo, is an unpretentious beach situated near the small village of Brejão (about 30 minutes drive from Aljezur) in the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina. The beach is flanked by cliffs and hills and although semi-sheltered still has a cooling breeze from the Atlantic. Perfect if you enjoy some beach “air-conditioning” as I do!

Praia do Carvalhal - the beach is flanked by cliffs and countryside

Alentejo:Praia do Carvalhal - the beach is flanked by cliffs and countryside

There is also a small concession area with a few loungers and parasols for hire. I was surprised these remained empty even though the beach was very busy. However,  as I surveyed the beach, people, like Mr. Piglet and me, had brought their own parasols, beach chairs and windbreaks. Actually, according to Mr P if we could have carried the kitchen sink we would have brought that as well! Men…

While I studied the other people on the beach, as you do, I suddenly realised to my surprise I was the only blonde haired English “bife” on the beach! Excellent – so if you want to escape your fellow countrymen, Carvalhal beach seems to be the place to go.  In fact, the only languages I heard spoken were Portuguese and Spanish.

Alentejo: Praia do Carvalhal - view from the waters edge

Alentejo:Praia do Carvalhal - from the waters edge

There is only one snack bar by the beach which opens from the 1st July until about the second week of September or there abouts – sorry the guy was a little vague on this point. The people at the snack bar were very friendly and spoke English.

To give you some idea of prices in case you decisde not to bring your own provisions: Cheese Sandwiches €3.00, Cheese and Ham Toastie €4.50, Cheeseburger €4.50 Coca Cola €2.00, Milky Coffee €2.00, Beer €2.00

The reason I was “lurking” round the café, other than to gain access to the toilets, was to buy ice-creams. You can imagine my surprise when I was told “Sorry we don’t sell these“
A beach café that does not sell ice-creams in peak season – that’s a first! Even in the back of beyond…a good salesman on the moon would even sell ice-creams in peak season!

As I studied the menu, I smiled to myself; you could buy a glass of whiskey, but could not buy ices! Crazy, they must be missing a sales opportunity  here, surely?

Alentejo:Praia do Carvalhal - View at 19.00 as we left the beach

Alentejo:Praia do Carvalhal- View at 19.00 as we left the beach

We brought our own nibbles plus a chilled bottle of wine to enjoy a “sundowner”. Priceless!

Late afternoon to early evening is a great time to go to the beach especially in July and August when beaches are really busy during the day. My fair skin, which burns very easily, does not enjoy the intense sun and harmful UV rays between 10am and 4pm and if I am not extremely careful I can resemble a BBQ’d piglet! We must be called “bifes” for some reason – I wonder why?

Relaxed, we finally left the beach at 19.00 and as we made our way back to the car I turned to take the picture above. I wanted to run back into the sea for a sunset swim  -  However, Mr Piglet had other ideas –  he just wanted his dinner!

Blue flag beach: Yes
Dogs: No
Cafe/Restaurants: Just one – Carvalhal Beach Café/Bar. Snacks, soft drinks and alcohol. They do not sell Ice Creams!
WC facilities: Yes, including a toilet for the disabled. Toilets are locked. Key available at Carvalhal Beach Café/Bar
Surfing: ?
Fishing:
Life Guard: Yes (In season)
Parking: There are two car parks
Disabled facilities:There is a toilet for the disabled plus good access to the beach via a level wooden walkway. (Please see photograph above).
Directions: Approximately 1 hr 15 mins drive from Lagos. From from Lagos take the N120 towards Sines. Keep driving until you eventually see a sign on the left to Azenhas do Mar. Note there are two turnings – take the second turning Go through the village of Brejão and past the Parque de Campismo do Monte Carvalhal da Rocha. Carry along this country road until the road forks. Take the Right hand fork which leads down to the car park for the beach

Related posts: Praia do Zavial – Western Algarve

Praia do Monte Clérigo – Western Algarve

Meia Praia – one of my favourite beaches

Praia da Amoreira – the Algarves best kept secret!

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Parking Scams in Portugal

Posted on March 8, 2011 | 56 Comments

Parking Scams at Amado Beach Portimão!

Parking Scams at Amado Beach Portimão!

Do you experience problems with “Parking Scammers”? They are rife in Portugal and they REALLY annoy me!.

It does not matter whether you park in a side road or in a free car park the “Parking Scammers” are lurking – just waiting to spring into action by directing you into a “free” parking space. “Free” being the operative word. Then, the moment you step out of your car they pounce – demanding money. I know their presence can feel really intimidating, but please do not give in to their demands. Tourists and foreigners are  prime targets especially if you do not speak the lingo and unable to understand their demands. However, some do speak English and are very persuasive!

I found them particularly intimidating when Mr. Piglet was in Faro hospital. There was no on-site parking so I had no choice but to run the gauntlet of “Parking Scammers” as they tried to direct me, without success, into one of “their” parking spaces. When I ignored them and parked elsewhere, undeterred, they ran after me and stood by my car menacingly waiting for payment.

Several of our friends, frightened their cars will be damaged, “pay up”. Why do we live in a state of fear and give in to these people?

Last week, the weather was beautiful so we went to Amado Beach in Portimão. Because it was out-of-season we were fortunate to find parking in one of the free car parks. However, as we drove in, our hearts sunk; we were greeted by a “Parking Scammer” trying to direct us into a parking space…come on the car park was empty!

Mr. Piglet momentarily tempted to run him over swerved at the last-minute ignoring the guy’s frantic gestures as he pointed at a car parking space. He decided to try his luck anyway, and knocked on our window demanding money. His demands were met with blank stares and total indifference, so he wandered off.

Spotting his next victim “Parking Scammer” sprung into action, but this time he struck lucky – Ahhh ha Touristo!! Easy pickings!!

“Bom Dia Senhora” he cooed “You make donation?”
He played the part of slimy con man well as he as he hovered expectantly, smiling insincerely at the Senhora. Senhora, who obviously had left brains at home that morning, emptied her purse into her hand, proffers him a handful of change and asked.
“How much do you want?”
I could not bear to watch as he gleefully helped himself. Senhora then thinks to ask.
“Errr what is the donation for?”
I did not catch his reply but just caught the smug look of triumph as he swaggered off. Feeling confident he went to approach us again; stopped in his tracks, thought better of it, and walked off in the other direction. Sensible guy – to quit while you’re ahead!

This is just one scam…there are MANY more…

As we made our way down the 118 steps to the beautiful beach below, I looked back, and spotted “Parking Scammer” directing his next victim into a parking space. Pushing negative thoughts from my mind, as I struggled down the steps with our beach gear; I paused, much to Mr. Piglet’s amazement, to take some photographs.

Amado Beach Portimão

Amado Beach Portimão

I really cannot understand why the Police allow scammers, do they turn a blind eye?
What type of parking scams do you have in your country?
Would you pay-up or ignore their demands?

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Meia Praia – one of my favourite beaches

Posted on January 3, 2011 | 5 Comments
Meia Praia - view towards Alvor

Meia Praia - view towards Alvor

Although not a surfer or sun worshipper I love beaches.

The sound of the waves and the magic of the sunlight dancing on the water is so relaxing – almost hypnotic that I can lose myself for hours just sitting looking out to sea, fishing or walking along the shoreline lost in thought.

A couple of months ago I discovered the blue flag Meia Praia beach in Lagos. The beach (approx 5km long) stretches from Lagos Marina to the estuary in Alvor. The literal translation is half beach because the large bay is cut in half by the estuary. This unspoilt sandy beach is great for families as there are plenty of activities and facilities in season. The beach is still natural, almost rustic having escaped (so far) the scars of mass tourism and concrete high-rise. You will not find tourist shops along the seafront selling sun cream, sun hats and trinkets…just kilometres (or miles) of natural beauty.

Meia Praia - view to Lagos town

Meia Praia - view to Lagos town

Towards the Marina end of the beach there is a concession area providing sun beds and sun shades. There are some café/bars and restaurants, toilet facilities, pedalos, and boat rides etc plus tiralos and disabled facilities. For those who prefer something less commercialised drive/walk to the other end of the beach towards Alvor. However, look out for the nudists in this area especially in the dunes. We were not expecting them and were taken by surprise!

The sea, both times we went to Meia Praia, was calm and unlike the beaches of the “Wild West” the waves virtually non-existent. In fact, the sea was so calm and so inviting I went for a swim even though it was mid October! It was like swimming in a large pond and the water was surprisingly warm.

Look out for dogs if you leave your beach bag unattended. When I was swimming in the sea one decided my beach bag would make an excellent place to cock his leg and leave his mark. I had to smile as the beach was virtually empty why choose my bag! Grrrrr

Do you think dogs should be allowed on Blue Flag Beaches? http://pigletinportugal.wordpress.com/2010/10/21/dogs-on-beaches-please-scoop-their-poop/

When we returned to the beach on a wild day in December the waves were quite spectacular and there were several surfers much to my amazement.

If you visit Lagos in the winter take a stroll along the water’s edge, take in the sea air, close your eyes and de-stress…

Meia Praia - concession area and restaurants

Meia Praia - concession area and restaurants

There are a several bar/restaurants including Sao Roque, Bar Quim Restaurant, and Por-do-Sol. Prices were mid range i.e., Grilled chicken at €8.50 and mixed omelette at €8.00 Drinks Café com leite (coffee with milk) €1.50 and a ceveja caneka (large beer) 50cl €2.50

Further views of Meia Praia and Lagos can be viewed here

A perfect place summer or winter!
Cafe/Restaurants: There are various restaurants but most close in the winter season.
Blue Flag: Yes
WC facilities: Yes
Surfing: Yes (sometimes)
Life Guard: Yes (In season)
Parking: Yes
Directions: Behind Lagos Marina and within walking distance from Lagos Station.
Local tip: The far end of the beach towards Alvor does attract nudist etc.

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Praia da Amoreira – the Algarves best kept secret!

Posted on November 2, 2010 | 10 Comments
Praia da Amoreira

Praia da Amoreira

Praia da Amoreira is a natural and as yet unspoilt sandy beach about 7kms from the little town of Aljezur in the Western Algarve. It’s popular with surfers, fishermen and those who just want to escape from the rat race of mass tourism and concrete highrise. There are no shops or concession areas so you will need to bring your own parasols, beach chairs and windbreaks if required. The only toilets available are at the restaurant.

Praia da Amoreira - inland view

Praia da Amoreira - inland view

At low tide there is a shallow lagoon area on the beach. This is popular not only with children but also their parents who just can’t resist playing on their kids inflatables!

The river Ribeira de Aljezur flows into the sea at Praia da Amoreira and provides a wonderful beach area along its banks. Take care at high tide as currents close to the mouth of the river can be very strong.

View from Restaurante Paraiso do Mar

View from Restaurante Paraiso do Mar

The Restaurante Paraiso do Mar just above the beach is well worth a visit. The food is simple but delicious, service is friendly and the views are to die for! We just had a light lunch of mixed omelette and chips which I could not have cooked better myself! Prices were reasonable, bearing in mind location for ex €7.00 for a Mixed omlette and chips, Hamburger and chips €8.00, coffees €1.30 and housewine about €4 for a half bottle.

Praia da Amoreira

Praia da Amoreira (Amoreira Beach- Western Algarve)

Praia da Amoreira

Blue Flag Beach: No
Restaurant: Restaurante Paraiso do Mar (Open all year) Tel 282 991 088
WC facilities: No (but there are toilet facilities in the restaurant)
Parking: Yes
Animals: No
Surfing: Yes
Life Guard: Yes (In season)
Fishing: Yes (There are restrictions on certain days of the week)
Disabled Facilities: Not that I noticed. Access to the beach is via some steep wooden steps or an uneven walkway.
Local tip: There is a lagoon beach area away from the main beach. Be careful of currents when tide is going out.
Directions: From Lagos take the EN120. Drive through Aljezur towards Rogil and just before the Pavilhão Gimnodesportivo Municipal on the Left hand side, you will see a sign to Amoreira Beach. The road down to the beach is flanked by beautiful scenery. Half way down the road, on the left hand side, there is access to an inland beach along the river that runs down to the sea. You will need to be careful due to currents when the tide is going out. Alternatively, continue down to the main beach.

You may also find this post of interest. http://pigletinportugal.wordpress.com/2010/10/21/dogs-on-beaches-please-scoop-their-poop/
I would be very interested to hear your views about dogs on beaches. For or Against?

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Dogs on beaches – please “scoop their poop”

Posted on October 21, 2010 | 25 Comments

Please scoop the poop

Please scoop the poop


How do you feel about owners bringing their dogs on to beaches unchecked and without a leash?

Should they be banned in the high season especially on Blue Flag beaches?

The reason I ask these questions is despite signs clearly displaying dogs are prohibited on certain beaches, some owners think this rule does not apply to them! I am not totally unreasonable in that if dogs are kept on a leash and their poop is scooped and removed from the sand it would be a fair compromise. However, they aren’t and it’s not.

This “Piglet Rant” or “Victor Meldrew moment”
was finally prompted after many years of observing how some dog owners have a total disregard or respect for other beach users. Enough is enough! Yesterday, we were on the beach and we spotted 3 dogs whose owner seemed totally oblivious to the fact or possibly just chose to ignore that her dogs were cocking their legs and weeing over people’s belongings, my shoes included! Several pooh landmines were also left in the sand one being in the middle of a sandcastle just waiting for the unsuspecting child to discover or someone like me to “swelch” in, as I walked barefoot across the sand.

I am told by one of my dog loving friends who shared a quote from the revered Barbara Woodhouse “there are no bad dogs, just bad owners”

To be honest I do despair as we have twice experienced dogs relieving themselves on our possessions and witnessed the act on other peoples on numerous occasions. You shout at the owners but usually your protests fall on conveniently deaf ears, no apology just a hasty retreat…

Perhaps the sign should read…Please scoop the poop

I am genuinely frightened of dogs and it really annoys me when the owner says in complete surprise and tuts “He wont hurt you” as their huge wet, sandy and very excitable hound bounds over to greet me…

Please share your opinion for and against!

PS
Does anyone know the law regarding dogs on Blue Flag beaches?

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Praia do Monte Clérigo – Western Algarve

Posted on September 17, 2010 | 2 Comments

Monte Clérigo Beach

Monte Clérigo Beach

As summer fades and we move into autumn, lazy days on the beach are unfortunately numbered for this year. It will soon be time to swap our bikinis for fleeces and sunbathing for brisk but exhilarating walks along the shoreline!

One of my favourite beaches is Monte Clérigo. It’s almost like stepping back in time with its cluster of retro houses and absence of tourist shops.

Monte Clérigo is located in the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vincentina near the village of Aljezur. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty and is totally unspoilt by the ravages of tourism. The one thing that amazed me and I was pleased to see was the good facilities for the disabled on such a uncommercialised and natural beach (further details below)

Cafe/Restaurants: O Zé (open all year round) O Sago, and Rede
WC facilities: Yes – plus changing rooms in season including access for wheelchairs.
Surfing: Seems to be popular all year round. See
www.surf-forecast.com

Fishing: From the rocks or beach.
Life Guard: Yes (In season)
Parking: Yes
Blue flag beach: Yes

TIRALO

TIRALO - Beach access for the disabled


Disabled facilities:
There is good access to the beach via a level wooden walkway. A Tiralo is available which makes the beach accessible, with support, for people with reduced mobility. The service is free and allows people with a disability to go on the beach and even near the water (only in season between 10h to 19h)

Directions: From Lagos take the N120 towards Sines. Just before the village of Aljezur turn left (signposts to Vale da Telha, Arrifana and Mónte Clérigo). At the top of the hill turn right and follow the road round to the beach of Monte Clérigo. The approach to Monte Clerigo beach is stunning with panoramic views down to the ocean and the beach below. There is a view-point where you can pull off the road and take photographs.

Tips: Please be aware that there is a strong undertow and current. There are no concession areas or shops on the beach so you will need to come equipped with your own parasol and beach chairs if required.

Which is your favourite beach?

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