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Sagres

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About Sagres

On the westernmost tip of the Algarve lies Sagres, a village at the end of the world. Surrounded by white cliffs fashioned by the roaring sea, Sagres is not everyone's cup-of-tea: set within a remote, barren landscape - some of the most dramatic scenery in Portugal - it is a haven for surfers and walkers alike. With long pristine beaches soaked by manic waves, it is an underexplored and undeveloped place, particularly for the Algarve, and doesn't have the frills and glamour of a seaside resort. Rugged, windswept and wild, it has few sites of historical or cultural interest, but therein lies its charm: the perfect place to escape the bustle of urban life. Our collection of the best places to stay in Sagres will introduce you to one of Portugal's best-kept secrets.

The ramshackle appearance of Sagres may lull a visitor into believing that the village is as historically insignificant as it is desolate. They would be wrong. Home of the 15th-century navigator, Prince Henry, and the location of his school of navigation, Sagres was the spiritual home of Portugal's Age of Discoveries. Indeed, it was from Sagres that the first caravels were launched. A remnant of this past can still be seen in, the great Fortaleza de Sagres, sitting high on the cliffs. Built by Prince Henry, it looms darkly over the crashing sea, walled in by the cliffs. Though it only bears a small chapel and a wind compass, the views from the fort are truly sublime.

In 1755, Sagres bore the brunt of an earthquake, rendering much of the original town lost beneath the dust of history. Therefore there aren't many things-to-do in the town itself. There are however some great seafood restaurants, serving the fresh fish brought in on a daily basis - the variety of which is extraordinary - and some lovely cafes and bars. The beaches are aplenty: if you like surfing, then head out to the Praia do Tonel, on the exposed northern flank of Sagres, while the Praia de Mareta is ideal for a day spent idling in the sunshine. Several surf schools operate in the town, so check one of them out if you want to go body-boarding or kite-surfing.

What not to miss

  • Take a walk along the clifftop coastal paths and enjoy the mesmerising views. Take care to wear good shoes and mind yourself because the paths are precarious at best, and the Portuguese aren't particularly obsessed with health and safety regulations!
  • Check out one of the many surfing schools in-town and try your hand at kite-surfing or bodyboarding!
  • Head up to the Fortaleza de Sagres and see the marvellous 15th-century architecture in all its glory. Nestled on a dramatic position high up the cliff, it provides fantastic views and has a small chapel.
  • Go to the lighthouse, the most southwesterly point of Europe and one of Portugal's most powerful lighthouses, the Cabo Sao Vicente.
  • Fancy a quiet beach holiday? You've found the perfect place. The Praia de Mareta is the most popular beach, though for something more secluded, check out the Praia do Martinhal. If you're a surfer, head over to the Praia do Tonel.

Sagres is a beautiful and remote place unspoilt by the heaving crowds of tourists who descend upon the Algarve every summer. Ideal for long walks, days spent lounging in the sun and fresh seafood, the best places to stay in Sagres are often found on lovely empty stretches of beach.

The best places to stay in Sagres

Value for money

  • Memmo Baleeira: a chic and minimalist hotel right on the beachfront, offering 144 rooms. Ideal for large families, there is a fantastic gourmet restaurant, a spoiling spa and an outdoor pool. Lots of activities to keep you entertained.

Family holiday

  • Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel: a luxurious and varied resort with 38 rooms, ranging from rooms to condos to beachfront villas. Ideal for a family beach holiday, it is perfectly placed for watersports. Laid-back and full of quiet charm.

Coastal Haven

  • Pousada de Sagres: nestled on a cliff-top away from the summer crowds, this hotel complex offers stunning views over the Algarve coast. Boasting a gorgeous pool and spectacular spa.

For an apartment or villa

  • For a self- catering option our partner Booking.com has a wide range of villas and apartments.

Travel information

  • Fly to Faro Airport and get a shuttle bus to Lagos, where you can travel on public transport to Sagres, taking less than 30 minutes.
  • If you want to rent a car we recommend you contact our partner Rentalcars.
  • Travel between June and August, when the temperature averages at around 22 degrees and there is minimal rain.

Still not sure?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Sagres

Best Hotels in Sagres

  • Pousada de Sagres Sagres (Algarve) 51 rooms from £78

    Hideaway  -  Hidden away on a cliff-top, this is the perfect bolt-hole for those who prefer a quieter spot for a beach holiday
    Families  -  The spacious rooms, great views and outdoor pool make this hotel a favourite with families
    Romantic Break  -  The historic building and beautiful sea views mean this hotel is popular with couples
    Great walks  -  The hotel neighbours a national park which has plenty of marked walking trails which make a great day out
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Nestled on a cliff-top away from the summer crowds, this hotel complex offers stunning views over the Algarve coast. Part of the Pousadas group of historic hotels, rooms are simply dressed in warm colours. Unwind by the pool overlooking the sea or book in for a spa treatment. A pretty seaside hotel. See More

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  • Memmo Baleeira Sagres 144 rooms from £118

    Active Holiday  -  There are endless options for an active holiday at this hotel; explore the coast on foot, two wheels or even by boat
    Families  -  This is family holiday heaven- with kids club, kiddie menu, junior dive courses, plenty of beaches and activties.
    Great walks  -  Take a picnic and head out along this rugged and stunning coastline and discover some of the least spoilt beaches in Europe.
    Surfing  -  Memmo's surf centre offer's lessons, equipment and storage facilities; make the most of some of Portugals best surfing.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape

    This chic beachfront hotel overlooks the dramatic Atlantic coast. Bright rooms are dressed in earthy tones with natural accents; the best have a balcony with sea views. The hotel boasts a newly renovated pool, spa and restaurant, plus a fun children's play area. A fresh look for this seaside hotel. See More

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  • Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel Sagres (Vila do Bispo) 37 rooms from £146

    Families  -  Children are more than well catered for with a range of activities on tap including football on the beach and bikes to borrow.
    Spa breaks  -  Finisterra Spa offers a range of therapies for all ages (from babies to grandparents), plus couples' and family treatments
    Resort  -  Your own stylish villa with activites, entertainment and delicious menus. How to make your stay stress free.
    Private villas  -  The resort is made up of varying private villas and beachfront condos.
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet

    The varying luxury accommodation at Martinhal, from rooms to beachfront condos to private villas, makes this resort ideal for energetic family holidays. The plethora of water sports and activities available is thrilling. A child-centric haven on the Algarve’s unspoilt west coast. See More

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